Clare go into this Wednesday's Munster final as defending champions and face arguably their toughest test of the past three years when they take on Tipperary in Thurles.

Tipp can count two All stars in their ranks while Clare will look to Darch Honan and the class of 2009 that remain for inspiration.

No one who attended the 2008 Munster final will ever forget the scenes of devastation at the final whistle as the county's first ever Munster title was ripped from Clare's grasp at the death.

It is something that Louth Fans will have felt recently in the Lensiter final.

However Clare cannot allow the memories of that infamous July night cloud their preparatiosn for Wednesday,

Some may argue that Clare should be defending a three in a row but they aren't and Tipp will show no mercy from the manner in which they claimd the title in Cusack park.

It is a very stiff test that awaits Clare,and they  will need improved performance from all of the side to defeat the favourites.

Thurles is a factor that Clare can actually use to their advantage,especially if Darch Honan can once more perform at his very best.

It was noticeable in the defeat of Limerick that an electric surge went through the crowd anytime he got the ball,Clare will need him to perform again on Wednesday.

it could come down to defense on both sides and it is ahrd to see how Clare will contain Tipperary but as defending champions and with proven performers Clare can march on with the scalp of Tipperray safely secured come 9pm on Wednesday night, and keep the thoughts of the three in a row secure until summer 2011.

It's set to be an epic!