National Hurling League Previews

(Matches at 3.00 unless stated)

(Matches at 3.00 unless stated)

Division One A

Kerry v Dublin, Tralee

The NHL reenacts the Civil War tomorrow by turning brother against brother in Dublin's first outing this season. Manager Michael O'Grady confronts his brother PJ who is in charge of Kerry. Dublin's fortunes are at something of a crossroads with the departure of the Kilkenny pair, Morrissey and Brennan, and the increasing interest being shown in Liam Walsh by Tom Carr's footballers. Still they have enough young talent in hand to take the points here.

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Galway v Clare, Ballinasloe

Match of the day but two contrasting agenda. Matt Murphy is very interested, for the usual reasons, in Galway reaching the play-offs whereas Clare are promising us a more mellow approach to the world although they would also like something to while away the time between April and June. Galway were quick out of the traps against Offaly and will be slightly favoured against a Clare team content to experiment with personnel while the county's established hurlers either concentrate on the club final or slowly make their way back for duty.

Antrim v Offaly, Loughgiel, 2.00

A disappointingly comprehensive defeat for the Ulster champions in Limerick but they may well fancy their chances in this. Offaly looked distinctly underwhelmed by the prospect of their League campaign when taking a beating from Galway and traditionally have never liked travelling to this fixture. Ten years ago, two NHL defeats presaged the famous championship reverse against Antrim. A big improvement will be required from Antrim who - with the exception of Shane Elliott who was given ample opportunity to highlight his goalkeeping talents - under-performed. Offaly, marginally.

Division One B

Down v Tipperary, Ballycran, 1.15

Down inhabit that familiar territory between gladness that they are competing with the best and frustration that the gap in standards often seems so wide. Manager Frank Dawson is happy with the turnout of the Ballygalget contingent so soon after their defeat in last week's club semi-final. Tipperary are trying a good number of new faces in their first match of the campaign. Six were involved in last weekend's Fitzgibbon Cup, including All Star footballer Declan Browne and Willie Maher (who missed the Templemore action because of suspension) so they should be in good shape. Manager Nicky English came off the bench to steady Tipperary the last time they visited Ballycran and whereas he'll hardly be doing so again, chances are the need won't be as great.

Wexford v Waterford, New Ross, 3.15

Injury-haunted Rory Kinsella once more has a full infirmary with the team not being named until the last minute due to the general depletion of the panel. This will be a tough match for Wexford as Waterford try to regain last year's momentum and have a strong team at their disposal. Dave Bennett's performances last weekend emphasised manager Gerald McCarthy's belief that the player is in terrific form but he has to take a fitness test before the throw-in. The visitors weren't really tested by Down a fortnight ago whereas Wexford weren't very good in Laois. As things stand, Waterford have the advantage.

Kilkenny v Laois, Nowlan Park

Since the counties met in the championship, Kilkenny have won Leinster, reached an All-Ireland final and - inevitably - lost another manager. As Brian Cody, the third manager in successive years, faces into the job of building from scratch, Laois are going through a confident spell in Padraig Horan's second year. The Leinster Council might have dashed hopes of a Walsh Cup success but the recent first win over Wexford in 14 years has left the county buoyant and they are in a good position to add to the county's recent good record against Kilkenny in the NHL.

Division Two

London v Meath, Parnell Park, Kingsbury

Two of the better teams in the division with the visitors getting the nod.

Roscommon v Westmeath, Athleague

The top match in the division may tilt slightly Westmeath's way.

Derry v Kildare, Slaughtneil, 2.00

Although Kildare put up a big win over Tyrone a fortnight ago, they should find Derry made of sterner stuff.

Tyrone v Monaghan, Omagh

Another of the division's three matches between neighbouring counties with the visitors marginally preferred.

Carlow v Wicklow, Dr Cullen Park

Carlow's big defeat by Roscommon leaves Wicklow looking more likely to pick up the points here.

Division Three

Armagh v Fermanagh, Keady - Postponed.

Sligo v Leitrim, Markievicz Park

Sligo to record a second win.

Louth v Mayo, Dundalk

Louth to improve on the hesitant win over Cavan.

Donegal v Cavan, Ballybofey

Donegal make their first appearance and could well come a cropper against vastly-improved Cavan.