Seamus Duke
GROUP A…at a glance
The much overused cliché ‘Group of death’ can certainly be applied here. One fancied team will end up in a relegation battle.
All eyes will be on Ballinlough on Sunday when Conor Cox makes his debut for Eire Og against Castlerea St. Kevin’s. I will sit on the fence and go for a draw.
There is another cracking game on the cards in Elphin when Kilmore face Oran. Kilmore are a great championship side with a superb never-say-die attitude, but Oran have a lot of classy young players and they should be good enough to win narrowly.
Fixtures
Eire Og v Castlerea St Kevin’s on Sunday in Ballinlough at 4 pm; Kilmore v Oran on Sunday in Elphin at 3 pm
GROUP B…at a glance
It was a big surprise to see St. Faithleach’s lose their senior status last year. Now they enter this championship as warm favourites to make a quick return. With the Murtaghs on board they should start with a win against St. Aidan’s at Dr. Hyde Park.
There is an attractive local derby in prospect as Kilbride face Creggs. Creggs have some excellent players and should start the season with a win.
Fixtures
St Faithleach’s v St Aidan’s on Saturday in Dr Hyde Park at 3 pm; Kilbride v Creggs on Saturday in Rockfield at 4.30 pm
GROUP C…at a glance
St. Dominic’s are great championship battlers and are always there or thereabouts when it comes to the IFC. They should start with a win against a St. Barry’s side who will be very happy to retain their intermediate status this year again.
Last year’s junior champions Ballinameen begin their campaign with a very winnable game against neighbours Shannon Gaels. This one could well end in a draw.
Fixtures
St Barry’s v St Dominic’s on Saturday in Ballyleague at 7 pm; Ballinameen v Shannon Gaels on Sunday in Ardcarne Park at 1 pm
