AFTER a three-week break, action resumes in the Limerick Senior Football Championship with a couple of interesting quarter-final fixtures across the weekend.
Fr Casey’s (Abbeyfeale) run-up against Na Piarsaigh in Askeaton on Saturday (4pm), with the winners to meet Adare, while Monaleen face Kildimo/Pallaskenry (KP) in Bruff on Sunday (2pm) with holders Newcastle West waiting in the wings.
Fr Casey’s – for whom Daniel Daly, Rory O’Brien, Mark McCarthy, and Culann Quigley were in fine form against KP – should prove too strong for Na Piarsaigh.
The Niall Loughran captained Monaleen are tipping away nicely, and in-form Lorcan Lyons, Paul Crosse, Daniel Daly, Daragh O’Siochrú, and co will likely lead the city outfit a step closer to a first title since 2016.
In the relegation final, Ballylanders are tipped to account for Claughaun in Cappamore (4pm) on Saturday.
Following completion of €1.2million improvement works (primarily a covered 800-seater stand), Mick Neville Park in Rathkeale will host next month’s final.
In the Intermediate Championship quarter-finals, Galbally meet Rathkeale (winners v Mungret/St Paul’s) at UL on Friday (8pm) and Dromcollogher/Broadford run-up against St Patrick’s (winners v St Senan’s) in Askeaton on Sunday (3pm).
Meanwhile, Graham Shine, who guided Limerick to this year’s All-Ireland Final, has departed as Ladies Football manager.
In an Instagram reflection, Shine confirmed: “My two years with Limerick has come to an end. What an enjoyable two years it was, but I won’t be seeking another term as manager.”
“We have enjoyed some brilliant moments, reaching a National League, Munster, and All-Ireland Final. I would personally like to thank all the players for their hard work and dedication to Limerick, and to my captain and friend Róisín Ambrose, thank you for everything. I’d like also to thank the County Board and Chairman PJ (Kiely) for all your help.”
Concluded the Kerryman: “Limerick LGFA has a special place now in my heart, and I’m sure we will work together again in the future. I have no doubt that ye will win the All-Ireland next year.”
In a repeat of last year, holders Monagea (0-10 to 0-3 weekend winners over Oola) and St Ailbe’s contest the Ladies Senior Final at the Gaelic Grounds on Sunday at 3pm. The curtain-raiser (1pm) is the Intermediate Final between Murroe/Boher and Galtee Gaels.
