The last four positions in the Intermediate Championship are up for grabs and will be filled this weekend.
Shane O’Neill’s v Derrynoose – Sat 20 Sept – 2pm – Granemore
These two teams locked horns in the Intermediate Championship last season in the playoffs stages. Derrynoose edged a high scoring encounter after extra time, winning 4-13 to 1-18 in the end.
Shane O’Neill’s have been one of the in-form teams in the championship so far in topping their group after just two games. They chalked up victories over Clann Eireann IIs, Wolfe Tones and Tullysaran.
Derrynoose have only one defeat to their record, in round one against Sarsfields. They have since bounced back with triumphs over Ballymacnab, Tir na nOg and Wolfe Tones to reach the final eight.
Forkhill v St Paul’s – Sun 21 Sept – 1pm – Ballymacnab
St Paul’s remain one of the top contenders for the Atty Hearty Cup but it’s Forkhill who enjoyed the three week break. However, the Lurgan men probably head into this game as the favourites to come through.
They could be without star man Eoin McConville, the top scorer in the Intermediate Championship. He picked up an ankle injury in their playoff win over Whitecross last weekend and is a doubt.
Forkhill have been firing well this season and captured promotion to Division 2A during their league campaign. They will feel confident of putting St Paul’s to the sword and guiding their way to the semis.
Sarsfields v Keady – Sun 21 Sept – 3pm – Abbey Park
In the two league meetings these teams shared earlier in the season, both recorded one win over the other. Sarsfields gained the upper hand in round one while Keady exacted revenge in round seven.
Sarsfields have been in great form throughout the competition, registering wins over Derrynoose, Tir na nOg and Ballymacnab. Kevin McAlinden’s return from Australia has given their forward division a major boost as well.
Keady could possibly be without star man James O’Hara, who picked up a knee injury against Ballymacnab. Youngster Sean Woods really came to the fore in their last outings, kicking 0-6.
Grange v Clann Eireann II – Mon 22 Sept – 7.30pm – Clady
This one is pace against power and youth against experience. Grange have been flying high in the championship to date but they won’t underestimate the challenge that Clann Eireann IIs are going to pose.
Nobody scored more throughout the group stages than Grange, who won three from three. In the Rafferty brothers Ethan and Odhran, along with skipper Daire Mallon, they carry huge two-point threats.
The key to Clann Eireann IIs success so far has been their ability to spread their scorers around the team. They are also the top goal scores in the competition with 14, four ahead of St Paul’s, who are next in line.
