AIB Connacht Junior Football Championship quarter-final: St Michael’s v Menlough on Saturday in Tuam Stadium at 2 pm
Having won their first Roscommon junior title in 30 years recently, St Michael’s will face stiff opposition in the Connacht Championship this weekend when they play Menlough in Tuam. Galway and Mayo clubs have traditionally dominated this championship and it will take a mighty effort from the Roscommon champions to advance in this tie.
Menlough, who beat a good Clonbur team in the Galway final, have a number of very experienced and talented players in their team. The likes of Barry Laheen, Jason O’Neill and Robert Hughes have been on the scene for a while, but Menlough have a number of younger players who have also shone this year.
St Michael’s had a dream championship in Roscommon. They swept to the title in some style with Fiachra Henry the scoring hero. But this test will be a step up from what they have experienced in Roscommon.
St Michael’s will need all their experienced players to come to the fore. Apart from Henry, they will look to players like Neil Cox, Mick King, Cathal Guckian, Alan O’Hara, Liam Conlon and Jack Lane to lead the way if St Michael’s are to advance.
It would be a great boost to Roscommon club football if Michael’s can progress. On their best form, they have a real chance. But tradition and the form book would suggest that the Galway side are favourites. There won’t be a lot in it.
Prediction: Menlough.
