Kilkenny v Tipperary, Sunday, 3.30pm (Nowlan Park)
Tipperary -2 @ Evens
We’ve had some memorable clashes in the 2018 National Hurling League, and it looks like we are going to get one more on Sunday at Nowlan Park as Kilkenny and Tipperary meet in the League Final. Kilkenny were slow out of the blocks in 2018, losing their first two outings, but have won five on the bounce since, and were impressive in dismissing a promising Wexford side last Sunday.
Tipperary have been the form side of the league, but it took extra-time to see off the challenge of neighbours Limerick in the semi-final. While Kilkenny will be delighted to have made a league final, with such a young panel, winning a league title looks a step too far. Tipperary have been ultra impressive in 2018, with Jason Forde leading the charge up front, and they should cover the two point handicap.
Selection: Tipperary -2 @ Evens
Tipperary Over 25.5 Points @ 4/5
Tipperary have averaged 29 points per game in normal time in their last six outings, and it should be business as usual on Sunday for a forward line that have been red-hot.
Jason Forde has been on fire for Tipperary, hitting 5-60 in his six league appearances in 2018, and he was also the star man for his UL side who won the Fitzgibbon Cup in February. Forde along with John McGrath and Michael Breen in the Tipperary forward line have been in scintillating form and they should easily score 26 points or more.
Selection: Tipperary Over 25.5 Points @ 4/5
Kilkenny Under 0.5 Goals @ 11/4
Kilkenny and Tipperary scored two goals each in their round four meeting at Nowlan Park, but the Cats have been far from deadly in front of goals this campaign, scoring just five goals in their seven league games. Tipperary have also kept clean sheets in their last two outings in normal time, and their defence looks much more assured with a centre defensive spine of James Barry and Padraic Maher.
The tight confines of Nowlan Park means forwards will be happy to take scores from distance, and Kilkenny may find it tough to break down a strong Tipperary defence. Take Kilkenny not to score a goal at 11/4
Selection: Kilkenny Under 0.5 Goals @ 11/4
Serious weekend of sport it’s setting up to be and PaddyPower.com has all the latest bets