The GAA takes its first tentative steps towards a full resumption of fixtures with Sigerson Cup action in Clones today and the delayed Offaly county final in Birr tomorrow.
Despite the foot-and-mouth confirmation in Louth, the organisation is pressing ahead with this weekend's scheduled fixtures with the future of the remaining league games due to be discussed by central council today.
This afternoon's match between University of Ulster at Jordanstown and NUI Galway is potentially the tie of the competition.
In the second game at Clones, surprise package St Mary's, who dismissed holders Queens, will be expected to overcome Trinity and book a place in the last four.
In Limerick, UCC, so thrilling in their 1999/2000 club championship run, should beat Athlone IT. Famously boasting a strong Kerry flavour with forward Ian Twiss, Eamon Fitzmaurice and Billy Sheehan, UCC have a formidably balanced look.
Offaly will be the first county to host a bit of hurling since the foot-and-mouth pre-cautions began. The final between Birr and Seir Kieran goes ahead tomorrow at 3.00 p.m..
Meanwhile, the Clare county board has cancelled the incentive package meeting which was due to be held in Ennis on Tuesday evening next. An alternative launch date is currently being arranged.
