Mulryan Construction IFC Final Replay: Kilmore v Oran on Saturday in Strokestown at 2 pm
Both sides will be glad of an opportunity to go again on Saturday after a very disappointing drawn game. Kilmore probably have more to prove in this replay following a complete implosion in the second half last time out in which they failed to score at all. Oran, on the other hand, will have been happy enough with the draw considering that they had to play most of that second half with 14 players following the dismissal of Colm Mahon shortly after the break.
Kilmore will contend that they can make a massive improvement; they looked sharp in the first half in the drawn game and Paul Garvey was playing well and leading the line with Derek Connellan. But when Oran moved Thomas Fetherston into the full-back line, Garvey’s influence waned and Kilmore started to struggle. Kilmore will be demanding more from their attackers this Saturday.
Oran played in fits and starts the last day although they showed commendable spirit and determination to fight back in the second half. The club are now involved in a replay in the hurling championship, which will affect dual players who are out playing big championship games every weekend now.
Kilmore will be looking to Jack Sharkey and Colm Garvey as pivotal players in their back line. Dermot Foley and Pat Caslin will probably start at midfield and that will once again be a vital area to decide who will win this replay. Up front, Paul Garvey is once again key and the experienced Derek Connellan, Dara Feely and John Donohue will have to up their game to give Kilmore a chance For Oran, Kevin Connannon will probably return at full-back with the excellent Thomas Fetherston outside him at number six. Adrian Cassidy will also have a huge role to play; his excellent free taking ability is vital to Oran’s cause. Gearoid Keenan and James Regan will be at midfield hoping to supply the likes of Paul Kenny, Jack Earley, Shane Regan and Mikey Gunning for those vital scores. Cathal Kelly is also an option for the Oran side that will also be hoping for a better all-round display on Saturday.
In the drawn game I went for Oran as I was of the opinion that they looked a bit stronger up front. However, I am going to change horses now on the basis that Kilmore could never play as badly again. Oran will give it everything, but with five or six players also involved in the hurling replay it might be a step too far for them. Kilmore to edge it by a point or two.
Prediction: Kilmore
