Senior Football Championship quarter finals preview

By Shane Brophy

Saturday, 21st September

Kilsheelan/Kilcash v Cahir in Ardfinnan @ 4.30pm

Two young teams that will look at each other and think they can progress to a semi-final. With their hurlers knockout early, Kilsheelan can focus on football and have a stronger panel which might be the decisive factor against a Cahir side that are strong defensively in what could be a low scoring game. Verdict: Kilsheelan/Kilcash

Moyle Rovers v Arravale Rovers in New Inn @ 4.30pm

Moyle Rovers have been the form team in senior football this year as league and south champions and won all three games in the group stage.

Arravale have been improved this year and the competitiveness of their performance in the loss to Loughmore/Castleiney will give them belief but the South side should prove too strong as well. Verdict: Moyle Rovers

Sunday, 22nd September

Ballina v Clonmel Commercials at The Ragg @ 3.30pm

A repeat of last years quarter final which Clonmel Commercials won comfortably by 22 points.

The defending champions haven’t been at their best this year, minus the injured Seamus Kennedy, James Morris and more recently Jack Kennedy.

Ballina have had their injury issues with Steven O’Brien, Michael Breen, and Teddy Doyle missing against Upperchurch. They have had three weeks to prepare and will surely set-up differently than twelve months ago, but it is hard to see a different result.

Verdict: Clonmel Commercials

Loughmore/Castleiney v JK Brackens in Templetuohy @ 3.30pm

Undoubtedly the tie of the round between these neighbours who have dominated the football landscape in Mid Tipperary.

The fact it is a rivalry game will ensure Loughmore/Castleiney aren’t looking ahead to a hurling semi-final, not that they would do it anyway. JK Brackens hopes for the year now rely on football and last years finalists would see Loughmore as a scalp to take in what should be a compelling, low scoring game. Don’t rule out extra time or penalties here! Verdict: JK Brackens