Down team unchanged for final
Down hurling manager John Crossey has named an unchanged team for Sunday's inaugural Christy Ring Cup final against Westmeath at Croke Park (throw-in 1.30pm).
The winners of the second-tier Ring decider, which will be played before the All-Ireland SHC semi-final between Cork and Clare, qualify for next year's All-Ireland series proper.
Five of the Ballygalget club's Clarkes have been included. Goalkeeper Graham Clarke, who finished third in the recent All-Ireland Poc Fada event, corner back Liam, wing back Gabriel, wing forward Eoin and corner forward Stephen all keep their places in the side that thumped Carlow 4-23 to 1-11 in the Ring semi-final.
Centre half-forward Paul Braniff netted twice against the Barrowsiders and will lead the Down attack again.
Opponents Westmeath, meanwhile, have injury doubts over defenders Darren McCormack (calf) and Dermot Curley (groin).
DOWN (SH v Westmeath): Graham Clarke; L Clarke, S Murray, C Coulter; Gabriel Clarke, G Savage, S Wilson (capt); G Adair, A Savage; E Clarke, P Braniff, B McGourty; M Coulter, G Johnson, S Clarke.
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