Kiltale set to tackle Harps
Having confirmed their position as the kings of Meath hurling by winning four successive SHC titles Kiltale will go in search of further glory in Leinster when they take on The Harps of Laois in Pairc Tailteann on Saturday, 2pm.
Kiltale have been here before, the Jubilee Cup under wraps and looking to make an impact outside their own county.
In previous years Kiltale's ambitions have been thwarted by Kilkenney opposition with Mullinavat, Bennettsbridge and Carrickshock all recording victories.
This time the Meath champions kick-start their campaign against the backdrop of an unusual scenario. They play The Harps who did not win the Senior A as it is referred to in that county; they didn't even get to the final.
Instead they were defeated by Ballyfin Gaels in the last four. Ballyfin went on to win the championship but because they are an amalgamation of teams from different parishes they are not eligible to represent their county at Leinster level.
The team they defeated in the final - Colt Gaels - are in a similar situation, leaving the way open for The Harps to fly the Laois flag.
The Harps are in themselves an amalgamation of Durrow and Cullohill, but because both those areas are in the same parish they are not restricted by the rules.
Founded in 1984 The Harps appear to be going through something of a low point in their history right now. They were relegated from the senior ranks last year for the first time since they were formed in 1984 and failed to bounce back at first time of asking.
That fact is unlikely to lull Kiltale manager Cathal Sheridan or his players into any sense of complacency.
They know The Harps, who are managed by former Laois player David Cuddy, could make a lot of problems for them.
Kiltale are expected to be without their brilliant goalkeeper Shane McGann with Ollie Regan likely to step in between the posts.
If Kiltale defeat The Harps they could be in line up to play Kilkenny side St Patrick's, Ballyraggett who have become embroiled in controversy after a celebration party following their IHC final victory over Graigue-Ballycallan.
Ballyraggett take on Kildare side Ardclough in the opening round of the Leinster Club IHC, but they would be expected to win that tie.