LOCALLY, the opening round of the FAI Junior Cup takes centre-stage on Sunday next.
In a novel contest, last season’s finalists Pike Rovers – who famously won the title in 2010/’11 when a last-minute headed goal from captain Keith Hartnett gave the Hoops a 2-1 win over St Michael’s of Tipperary at Turners Cross – host Newtown Rovers.
At the weekend, Pike advanced in the Munster Champions Cup with an impressive 5-0 demolition of Everton (Cork), with Aaron Murphy grabbing a sensational hat-trick. In the same competition, Abbeyfeale United beat an unusual named outfit in ‘Doolan’s FC’ in a penalty shoot-out at Mayfield, Cork. Goalkeeper Shane O’Connell brought of the crucial ‘winning’ save.
It’s interesting to note that hurling All-Star Gearóid Hegarty is also showing some slick touches of late with Aisling Annacotty.
Fixtures (all games kick-off at 10.30am, unless otherwise stated):
Moyross V Abbey Rovers (2pm); Pallas Utd V Lisnagry A; Newport V Geraldines; Croom United V Summerville Rovers; Brazuca United V Cappamore; Shelbourne V Corbally United; Nenagh V Hyde Rangers; Murroe V Lisnagry B; Patrickswell V Knockainey; Carew Park v Ballynanty Rovers (2pm); Star Rovers V Granville Rangers; Caherdavin Celtic V Parkville; Coonagh United V Kilfrush, 10.30; and Pike Rovers V Newtown Rovers.
