According to many including some of their own players Offaly should be playing division 2 hurling in 2015 but due to the relegation/promotion system they survived in division 1-b thanks to their play-off win over Kerry in Thurles.

The Midlanders who last won the All Ireland in 1998 have faded as a force and underage results in the last few seasons suggest it’s not going to get better anytime soon.

Two time All Ireland winner, 4 time all star, 4 time All Ireland club winner with Birr and team of the Millennium member Brian Whelehan took over as manager from Ollie Baker this season.

He spoke to me about the many problems the county faces and the task of playing Kilkenny in Nowlan park in what will be Sky Sports first live GAA match.