**​Saturday August 19 **

Bord Gais Energy All Ireland Under 21 Semi-Final

Kilkenny v Derry, Semple Stadium, 4pm

Since 1964 only one Ulster team - Antrim in 2013 - has reached an All Ireland Final at this level.

That confirms the daunting task facing Colie McGurk's Derry team at Semple Stadium on Saturday.

Kilkenny, who haven't won an Under 21 All Ireland since 2008, losing deciders in 2009 and 2012, are anxious to be still hurling in September.

Manager Eddie Brennan guided Kilkenny to Leinster glory, a fine performance over Wexford in the eastern showpiece last month was a satisfactory outcome.

Richie Leahy and Sean Morrissey were in fine scoring form for Kilkenny, who registered 0-30 in that encounter.

Three changes have been made to the Kilkenny starting team with Niall McMahon, Huw Lawlor, and Shane Walsh all included.

It has been an encouraging spell for Derry hurling with Slaughtneil reaching the AIB All Ireland Club Semi-Final before a summer which included a Nicky Rackard Cup triumph.

At various stages 13 of the current Under 21 panel featured at senior level so McGurk's charges are hopeful about delivering a solid display.

Corey Riley blasted two goals in the Ulster Final win over Down, while Brian Cassidy and Daragh Cartin were other prominent figures.

KILKENNY: Darren Brennan; Michael Cody, Conor Delaney, Niall McMahon; Darren Mullen, Jason Cleere, Tommy Walsh; Luke Scanlon, Huw Lawlor; Richie Leahy, John Donnelly, Sean Morrissey; Shane Walsh, Liam Blanchfield, Billy Ryan.