MJK OILS JAHC opener-

May 20, 2017

- defending Champions Ballinora take on Eire Og-

 

The Muskerry JAFC Round 1 came to an end last weekend, as Donoughmore saw off the challenge of Blarney on a score line of 2-13 to 3-7 in the final opening round contest. The game played in Carrigadrohid last Friday was a hugely entertaining one, with Blarney settling the better in the opening five minutes. Once Donoughmore rattled the back of the net before the 10th minute, they never looked back and never trailed after that. The winners led by four points at half-time, but despite a mini revival by Blarney that saw the teams deadlocked by the third quarter, Donoughmore composed themselves to lead by six points with five minutes remaining, with Darragh O’ Shea’s goal crucial.

Blarney did make it a nervy ending to the game, with a goal, following up from a penalty miss to reduce the lead to three points, but Donoughmore held on to progress. Blarney face Clondrohid in Round 2. Aidan Corkery, John Chambers, Leon Cogan, Jamie Twomey and Kevin Kearney, who finished with 1-6, stood out for the winners. Cormac O’ Mahony and Keith Costello battled hard for Blarney.

 

The Muskerry JAHC commences tomorrow evening, as Ballinora defending champions for the first time since 1997 face Éire Óg in Round 1. After what seemed like an age trying to win the division, including plenty of heartbreak in the closing stages, things finally all came together for Ballinora last year, edging out Blarney in the decider, 1-15 to 2-10. There will be added pressure on them this summer, but with plenty of experience, that shouldn’t be a problem.  Patrick Cronin and Brendan Hourihan shore up the defence, with the Lordan brothers, Mike and James also important players. Darragh Holmes, David Howard, Pat Fitton and Darragh Corkery lead their charge up front.

Éire Óg have made an encouraging start in the IHC, beating Kildorrery in preliminary round three weeks ago and Meelin in Round 1 last week. The management didn’t make any subs in those two games, so the likelihood is that the junior side should be strong tomorrow.  Tim O’ Leary, Dave Sheahan, Cian O’ Mahony and Liam Murphy carry plenty of experience and should be available. Ballinora get a firm nod to advance.

By Barry O'Mahony



 

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