The Allianz Hurling League 2014 throws in this weekend and we were joined by Jamesie O'Connor to look ahead to the opening clashes of the ash.

Cork v Limerick

Saturday, December 15th (7pm)

Division 1B starts off with a meeting of the two promotion favourites. Limerick, who narrowly missed out on promotion in 2013, defeated Cork in last year's Munster final but the Rebels will hope to exact revenge this year by beating them to promotion.

With no promotion playoff at stake, Jamesie said tomorrow's match becomes even more crucial for both teams. 

"It's a massive game for both counties. Limerick's readiness, I'm not too sure about. They're obviously missing Na Piarsaigh players and have sensibly given those guys time off. They're also missing Declan Hannon and Seamus Hickey so they're certainly depleted in attack," said Jamesie who feels Limerick are "up against it" in a battle against a Cork side which will field a "strong team." 

Galway v Dublin

Sunday, December 16th (2pm)

Jamesie believes the Dubs will have a "real resolve to kick on this year" in Division 1A as they look to build on a 2013 which saw them win Division 1B and a long-awaited Leinster Hurling title.

Jamesie expects Anthony Daly to experiment during this campaign. He expects an "intriguing" clash against a Galway side trying to rebuild after last year's "unmitigated disaster".

"Either side if they lose, will be under pressure," he said, citing Dublin's need to put down a marker before they face Clare next weekend.

Clare v Kilkenny

Sunday, December 16th (2pm)

Jamesie reckons Clare are not as prepared compared to this time last year because "they were hurling up to late September" as well as club commitments.

"They're certainly behind where they were physically, this time last year. But the upside is that they now have the confidence that winning an All Ireland brings, plus they have developed cohesiveness," said Jamesie.

However he thinks the Banner will be up against it when they face a wounded Kilkenny outfit, although he believes a match against the Cats helps concentrate the minds.  

Jamesie also touched on Ger Loughnane's claim that Offaly are "the only team in the modern era with fat legs, bellies and a****". 

Jamesie thinks Loughnane's comments are harsh does a "disservice" to Offaly's players.

Image: Clare's Padraic Collins and Tommy Walsh of Kilkenny ©INPHO/Cathal Noonan