The smash hit single of 1997 by the punk band Chumbawamba called "Tubthumping" was informally known better by its prominent lyric "I get knocked down but I get up again". Rather apt after how punch drunk I felt after last weekends string of unfancied results but a new week brings about new confidence and another attempt to pin point the value in the betting market.
So, here goes once more:
1. Offaly v's Kildare
Croke Park
Throw in 5pm
When these two counties met at the same stage of Leinster Championship last year, Kildare ran out comfortable winners by a thirtheen point margin. Kildare manager Kieran McGeeney will be satisfied with thier Division 1 league campaign and will take positives from their narrow semi final defeat to Tyrone where three of this years Leinster Under 21 winning team played. Five members of the same team will now make their championship debuts in this game which is a serious show of confidence by the gaffer. Under new manager Emmet McDonnell, the Faithful men have steadied the ship and gained promotion from Division 4 of the Allianz League while losing the decider at headquarters to Limerick. Following that form line however from Limerick's showing against Cork last w'end, the wide expanses of Croke Park should even allow for the traditionally wayward Kildare forward line to rack up another large score here
Verdict: Kildare Odds: Kildare (-9) 11/10
2. Kerry v's Waterford
Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney
Throw in 7pm
The Kerry machine rolled in to action last weekend and hit the ground running against a very disappointing Tipperary side which a lot more was expected of. Eamon Fitmaurice keeps faith with the same starting 15 for this encounter which is a show of support for those who put in a thoroughly professional shift last weekend. With a six day turnaround between games it was thought that Fitzmaurice would shuffle his pack but the likes of Darren O'Sullivan and Bryan Sheehan will be held in reserve once more. For new Waterford manager Niall Carew and his players this is a daunting trip but they will hope now that they can at least be as, if not more, competitive than Tipperary were last w'end. They also have star man Gary Hurney returning from injury and if he can receive any decent suppy of ball then he could cause the Kerry defence a scare or two.
Verdict: Kerry Odds: Kerry (-13) 4/5
3. Derry v's Down
Celtic Park, Derry
Throw in 2pm
The fact that these two sides are changing places in the League for next season suggests that there should be very little between them in this encounter. Derry, under new manager Brian McIver, earned many plaudits for their victory over a bang in form Westmeath side in the Division 2 league final. With an exiting blend of youth and experience, including the likes of Gerard O'Kane, Mark Lynch and Paddy Bradley there is a sense of anticipation in Derry once more. Unfortunately, as they have seen only too many times over the years, it is when in this situation that the Oak Leaf men are most vulnerable. Down manager James McCartan is in a fortunate position to be able to name ten of the team that started the All Ireland Final loss in 2010 but they will miss the experience of Dan Gordon and Danny Hughes who are only now returning from injury. McIver should have some inside information after working as part of the backroom team with McCartan in Down, and with home venue, Derry get the nod in what should be an intense tussle.
Verdict: Derry Odds: Derry win 10/11
Pods-itivity Treble 7/1
Other mentions: The Dubs to overcome Westmeath in their own back yard with a bit to spare, watch out for the exciting Ciaran Kilkenny at centre forward. In the Munster Hurling Championship, the meeting of Clare and Waterford in Thurles should be a riveting encounter. Davy Fitzgeralds youthful Clare side are fancied to give Tipperary the biggest run for their money in Munster, but if Brick Walsh can put the shackles on the exciting Tony Kelly, then in the white hot atmosphere of Thurles, the Deise may just upset the Banner on this occasion
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