Sarsfields' manager Johnny Crowley and selector Diarmuid O'Sullivan. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
Sunday January 19
AIB All-Ireland Club SHC Final
Na Fianna v Sarsfields, Croke Park, 1.30pm, TG4
A novel AIB All-Ireland Club SHC Final with plenty of intrigue attached.
It has been a remarkable campaign for both clubs, who will be eager to deliver on the Croke Park stage.
Sarsfields were beaten in the Cork SHC decider, but Johnny Crowley's charges responded impressively in Munster, overcoming Feakle and Ballygunner.
Those morale boosting victories injected confidence, while also providing momentum to a team that features the splendid Jack O'Connor and Aaron Myers.
Donal Burke pictured following Na Fianna's AIB All-Ireland SHC Semi-Final win over Loughrea. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
O'Connor lofted over four points from play in a tight semi-final success over Slaughtneil, illustrating his value to the Sarsfields cause.
Daniel Kearney's experience at the highest level is crucial too for Sarsfields, who will be fully aware of the threat Na Fianna possess.
Niall Ó Ceallacháin has carried out diligent work turning Na Fianna into a respected outfit in Dublin and Leinster.
In the penultimate round at FBD Semple Stadium, AJ Murphy rifled over a sweet last gasp point to fracture Loughrea hearts.
Colin Currie and Donal Burke remain key figures for the Glasnevin club, with centre back Liam Rushe a commanding presence.
