Senior hurling contenders look to make their move

THE SHC continues today with a fascinating double header in Laois Hire O'Moore Park as The Harps take on Portlaoise

before Ballyfin take on Abbeyleix (3pm). Both games could prove pivotal in shaping the quarter-final picture.

The Harps v Portlaoise 

The Harps head into the clash knowing that a victory would greatly enhance their chances of reaching the latter stages. After an encouraging start to the campaign, they have shown plenty of attacking threat, with their forwards capable of causing problems for any defence.

Portlaoise, meanwhile, have proven difficult to beat and will see this as an opportunity to build momentum. They will fancy their chances of securing two valuable points.

The battle around midfield could prove decisive, but if The Harps can bring the intensity and direct running that has characterised their best performances, they may just have enough to edge a tight encounter.

Ballyfin v Abbeyleix 

The second game has plenty at stake for two sides still searching for their first win of the campaign. Ballyfin, newly promoted to senior level, have shown encouraging signs but have suffered defeats in their opening two matches and will be desperate to get points on the board.

Abbeyleix find themselves under similar pressure after losses to Portlaoise and The Harps. Traditionally one of the county's strongest clubs, they will know that another defeat would leave their championship ambitions hanging by a thread.

Ballyfin's work rate and hunger have been evident since their promotion, while Abbeyleix possess the experience and scoring pedigree that often comes to the fore when the pressure is greatest.

With both teams fighting to kick-start their campaigns, this could be the most difficult game of the day to call. Abbeyleix's experience may prove the difference in the closing stages.

Championship hurling rarely lacks drama, and with knockout qualification beginning to come into focus, both contests carry huge significance.