The Kilkenny SHC knockout stage starts this weekend which sees four intriguing first round matches down for decision.
The Henry Shefflin-managed Ballyhale will look to TJ Reid and Joey Holden to get them over the line against 2017 intermediate champions Ballyragget on Sunday as the race for Tom Walsh Cup honours cranks up a gear.
The other first round ties are Erins Own V Carrickshock (tomorrow), Clara V Danesfort and Mullinavat V Rower-Inistioge (both Sunday).
Meanwhile, tomorrow, city rivals James Stephens and O'Loughlin Gaels meet in the SHL final which will be preceded by the SHL Shield final between Bennettsbridge and Dicksboro.
Here are the key fixtures in Kilkenny this weekend...
Saturday 22 September
SHC first round/relegation semi-final
Erins Own V Carrickshock, Clara, 5pm
SHL final
James Stephens V O'Loughlin Gaels, Nowlan Park, 3.15pm
SHL Shield final
Bennettsbridge V Dicksboro, Nowlan Park, 1.45pm
Sunday 23 September
SHC first round/relegation semi-final
Clara V Danesfort, Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan, 12.30pm
SHC first round
Mullinavat V Rower-Inistioge, Thomastown, 2.45pm
SHC first round
Ballyhale V Ballyragget, St Johns Park, 5pm