Reigning champions to play their first game of Senior Championship
St Mullins begin the defence of the SHC title they won last year this weekend Photo: Pat Ahern
With the reigning champions having a first-round bye, this surely gives Ballinkillen a great chance of getting a win over St Mullins. You could only describe Ballinkillen’s opening performance against Mount Leinster Rangers as decent. Nothing more. When they had a chance to build momentum, it was the opposition who found that bit extra.
St Mullins are coming into the championship cold and if there is a chance of them being caught then it is here. They have a worry in that last year’s keeper, Kevin Kehoe, has retired. Will former Carlow outfield player, Seamus Murphy, be an option between the sticks? Could the experienced Mark Ryan be asked to fill the role? It is not ideal for St Mullins. They could be vulnerable without the benefit of a championship game.
Ballinkillen
Naomh Eoin impressed against a desperately poor Bagenalstown Gaels team on Saturday. Now is the time for the Myshall side to embellish that performance and prove to themselves more than anything else that they are worthy contenders.
Rangers came away from the ground on Saturday suggesting that they had been tested against Ballinkillen. Maybe so? They seemed to have an extra gear when required. It will be more of the same now. It is hard to see Rangers lose but Naomh Eoin will have benefitted from their opening first round win. A close game.
Mount Leinster Rangers
Saturday 12th July, 6pm
Naomh Bríd - Bye
Naomh Eoin v Kildavin/Clonegal
Mt Leinster Rangers v Burren Rangers
Naomh Moling v Carlow Town
Sunday 13th July
Mt Leinster Rangers v Setanta, 12pm
Burren Rangers v Ballinkillen, 4pm
