After a three-week break, Dublin will resume their Allianz National Hurling League Division 1B campaign when they host Wexford at Croke Park next Saturday afternoon (5.00).
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Tue, 17 February 2026
The Dubs arrive into the encounter with two points from two games following their narrow Round 1 defeat to Clare and victory against Kildare while Wexford have claimed full points from their three games against Antrim, Down and Carlow.
“The introduction of Lee Chin made a huge difference as Wexford blitzed Carlow last time out in the last fifteen minutes", said former Dublin Minor and Under 21 manager Sean Lane.
"He is a hugely influential figure for them. They looked a much better team with him involved and you would expect him to start in Croke Park next weekend.
“The likes of Simon Roche, who scored fourteen points against Carlow and Tomás Kinsella who added six points from play will be hugely important for Wexford this weekend, too.
“I fully expect Wexford to be very strong and that they will throw the ‘kitchen sink’ at Dublin as it’s such an important match for both teams,” said Lane.
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With Dublin losing to Clare in Ennis in Round 1, that leaves little wriggle room for Niall Ó Ceallacháin’s side in their promotion chase.
But Lane is confident that the Dubs have sufficient ability to take a positive step towards the top division next Saturday.
“I think it’s imperative for the team’s development that they get back to Division 1A as you have to play these types of competitive matches to gain experience against the top sides.
“It also acts as much better preparation for the Leinster Championship and it’s probably why we have seen quite a settled look to the Dublin team in the league so far.
“I always like to see young players come in and Conor Groarke has put his hand up but Dublin’s line-up has been relatively settled so far.
“With Eoghan O’Donnell back, the full-back line has an established feel with John Bellew and Paddy Smyth beside him and the whole defence is very recognisable.
“Further up the pitch, you’re always looking to increase your options and you’d probably be looking to get a couple more scoring forwards into the mix.
“Dublin have had a bit of a rest after being idle in Round 3 and that’s probably not a bad thing and I expect them to hit the ground running on Saturday and put in a good performance,” added Lane.
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To help clubs who wish to bring large juvenile groups to the games, the group ticket limit has been increased to 50 per transaction. Full details are available at am.ticketmaster.com/GAA/
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