Key Highlights
- The Galway SHC final between St Thomas’ and Loughrea is set to take place at Pearse Stadium.
- A replay in the Roscommon Senior Football Championship final will see Pádraig Pearses face off against St Brigid’s.
- Seán O’Leary GAC Newbridge competes against Dunloy Cúchullains in a preliminary round match for the AIB Leinster SFC.
- The AIB Munster SHC quarter-final will see Ballygunner face Na Piarsaigh at TUS Gaelic Grounds, with Na Piarsaigh aiming for their third consecutive victory.
Provincial Football Championships in Focus
The upcoming provincial football championships are set to kick off across the various counties. The Galway Senior Hurling Championship (SHC) final is a highlight, with St Thomas’ facing Loughrea at Pearse Stadium on Saturday. This match serves as a reminder of St Thomas’ dominance in county finals, having never lost their title despite a “late” All-Ireland appearance two seasons ago.
In the Roscommon Senior Football Championship (SFC) final replay, Pádraig Pearses will aim to make amends against the 2024 All-Ireland runners-up, St Brigid’s.
The preliminary round of the AIB Leinster SFC sees Seán O’Leary GAC Newbridge competing against Dunloy Cúchullains in Owenbeg. Dunloy’s recent triumph over the football title for the first time in 89 years is a testament to their determination and skill.
Key Matches to Watch
The AIB Leinster SFC preliminary round between Old Leighlin (Carlow) and Portarlington (Laois) at Netwatch Cullen Park highlights another competitive clash. Old Leighlin’s first appearance in Leinster after 13 years might be their toughest challenge, given their record against Laois. Portarlington’s five consecutive titles suggest they are a formidable opponent.
The Kildare Senior Football Championship final between Baltinglass and Athy is set for Echelon Park, Aughrim.
Baltinglass won their first Wicklow title in five years but will face a seasoned Athy team backed by Kevin Feely, Niall Kelly, and David Hyland. Athy’s veterans bring experience to the table, making this a compelling local derby.
The Meath Senior Football Championship final between Summerhill and Killoe Young Emmets at Páirc Tailteann in Navan presents an interesting matchup. While Meath hasn’t won the provincial title since 2001, Summerhill’s experience from their previous participation can be a deciding factor. Killoe’s presence of Mickey Quinn at centrefield adds to the complexity of the match.
Highlighting Ballygunner’s Bid for Victory
The AIB Munster SHC quarter-final between Na Piarsaigh and Ballygunner at TUS Gaelic Grounds is a significant contest. For years, Ballygunner has dominated Limerick opponents, winning every match since 2017. However, the recent All-Ireland champions are not without their challenges, as they face an aging squad with players like Pauric Mahony and Stephen O’Keeffe nearing the end of illustrious careers.
In pursuit of a three-peat, Rathgormack competes against The Nire for the AIB Munster SFC final.
Despite both teams being injury-hit, Rathgormack’s recent form suggests they might hold an edge over their rivals. The Wexford Senior Football Championship final between Castletown and Shelmaliers at Chadwicks Wexford Park is another closely contested match, with Castletown looking to secure back-to-back titles.
