Castlehaven (Cork) v St Bridgets (Roscommon)
Semple Stadium, Sunday, 1:45 p.m.
One of the fascinating mysteries of club championships is that there is often no form line to draw.
This weekend’s other semi-final is an obvious exception, but Castlehaven and St Brigid’s have no history of playing against each other, and in the era of superclubs and back-to-back winners, it’s rare for either side to reach the last four.
Behavior patterns are easier to read. Since winning in stoppage time against Nimmo Rangers in the Cork County final, Castlehaven have been walking a tightrope with great nerve. They survived extra-time against Clare champions Clatroe and somehow scored the equalizer twice in stoppage time in the Munster final against Dingle, once at the end of normal time and at the end of extra time.
Their front line revolves around Brian Hurley, who produced many clutch scores and was great on free takes. His younger brother Michael made the difference in the county final but he must be a doubt after sustaining a hamstring injury against Dingle less than a month ago. His absence will be significant.
However, Jack Cahalan is also a threat with his sniping runs and deft passing, while Cathal Maguire has been brilliant from deep.
St Brigid’s dominated Corofin in the Connacht final, putting aside their lackluster performance against Mohir and producing their best performance of the year. All-Star candidate Brian Stack shuts down Gary Theis’ huge threat against Corofin, making this weekend’s matchup with Brian Hurley pivotal.
Ben O’Carroll is the team’s attacking leader from play to free and St Brigid’s have shown a flair for goal, scoring 13 goals in their last five Championship games. In a game this close, one goal can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
Verdict: St. Brigid’s
- Apply push alert Get the best news, analysis and commentary delivered straight to your phone
- search Irish Times on WhatsApp Stay up to date
- The In The News podcast is published daily – find the latest episode here