Doubtful. With two sides as finely tuned as these, a free-for-all goalfest is a remote possibility. So where's the value from a punting point of view? Well, outright, you won't catch us backing anybody at 8-11 against Kilkenny, while 13-10 for a side that have lost their best defender isn't big enough. There's also the puzzler of a one-point handicap, which is certainly attractive should you fancy Cork to ease their way to a three-in-a-row at close to evens. Still too tricky to constitute an investment though. Henry Sheffiin is a worthy favourite for first goal, but at 6-1 is too short.

Our hunch is that this will be another dogged affair that will result in another winter of soulsearching for the hurling fraternity. This pair have only managed two goals between them in their last two final meetings and familiarity is only likely to breed contempt from the neutrals and purists. Back James McGarry (right) and Donal Og Cusack to both keep clean sheets at 10-1.

BACK DIARMUID O'SULLIVAN TO BE MAN OF THE MATCH IN THE ALL IRELAND SHC FINAL 25-1 Odds quoted are from Paddy Power Man of the match is, admittedly, a lottery, but it doesn't always require a crystal ball to predict who'll hold the crystal. Ideally, you should choose someone who may get the award even if his team loses. Also, someone in a position to nullify the opposition's star turn. Henry Sheffiin would probably have to score something like 115 and rescue a child from a burning building to win the award himself. But if somebody stops Sheffiin. . . Also, everyone loves to see somebody written off and coming good. The Cork full-back line has been questioned at length this season. Finally, somebody who makes a habit of the spectacular will be noticed. Ladies of gentleman, a round of applause for this year's man of the match, Diarmuid O'Sullivan.

Where the money wasn't. . .

ROY KEANE TO BE THE NEXT SUNDERLAND MANAGER (during the summer) 7-4 (Betfair) There were quite a few people who foresaw (or recieved a nod and a wink) that Roy Keane would become Sunderland manager. Unfortunately they put their money on before Niall Quinn employed himself as gaffer before quickly resigning. This led to musings that some sort of betting coup took place. Not so, according to the good people at Betfair. Quinn was backed at 94-1 but for pennies. Roy was backed at as low as 7-4. Close, but no cigar.