One of the Westmeath players who saw service against both counties in recent weeks publicly remarked that Kilkenny's first touch was noticeably better than Waterford's first touch. It might mean something; more likely it means nothing, as Gerry Fitzpatrick has calibrated training to leave the team . . . especially the older hands . . . fresh for July. The plan seems to be working; Tony Browne has springtime in his step again, with Ken McGrath the possessor of a new lease of life since his switch to midfield.

Furthermore, Eoin Kelly's return should add two or three points to the home team's finishing total.

The guild of statisticians inform us that Galway have never beaten Waterford in seven championship attempts dating back to 1938. Whatever about our Westmeath pal's comment, this is one item that holds absolutely no significance whatsoever. Of rather more relevance this afternoon is the venue; what the Lord took away in dispatching Waterford to Ennis 12 months ago, He may just have given back here.

For the few Galway supporters in evidence today, the timehonoured Galway supporter's routine applies. Assume the position, cross your fingers and hold tight. Although Alan Kerins and particularly Damien Hayes are precisely the type of attackers who discomfit the Waterford full-back line, one is entitled to be sceptical about how large a quota of scores will emanate from the visitors' halfforward line. And from midfield, where McGrath is quite likely to turn his home pitch into his own backyard. How will Galway respond if Waterford seize the game by the throat and dictate matters from the off? These are two good point-scoring sides.

Goals may make the difference.

A shot in the dark. Waterford.

Winning this is the kind of thing they'd do.

Verdict Waterford

WATERFORD C Hennessy; D Prendergast, T Feeney, E Murphy; T Browne, J Murray, B Phelan; K McGrath, D Bennett; D Shanahan, E Kelly, S O'Sullivan; J Mullane, M Walsh, E McGrath GALWAY L Donoghue; D Joyce, T Og Regan, O Canning; D Hardiman, S Kavanagh, David Hayes; F Healy, D Collins; G Farragher, D Forde, A Keary; Damien Hayes, R Murray, A Kerins