PREVIEWS: Massive weekend of club hurling throws up fascinating ties

Saturday, September 24:

FBD Insurance Intermediate Hurling Relegation Semi-Final

Ballinahinch V Ballybacon Grange in Clonoulty 3.45

Ballinahinch were a single point away from avoiding this relegation fight in their loss to Skehennarinky the last day, and it just shows the fine margins at this level.

They had patches of good play in that game, but the loss of centre back Karl Kelly during the second half seemed to stagnate the players play, as late points meant they came unstuck.

Ballybacon are a team on the precipice for some time now, and even though they had a somewhat decent display in defeat to Moneygall in their final group game, the writing might finally be on the wall for the south men.

Verdict: Ballinahinch

FBD Insurance Intermediate Hurling Championship Preliminary Quarter-Final

Kilsheelan Kilcash V Boherlahan Dualla in Cahir 3.00

Delayed due to the south side’s involvement in the football championship last weekend, we have the final quarter-final spot up for grabs here.

Kilsheelan will now be in full small ball mode after their exit to Loughmore in the football last weekend, and they’ll be hoping to get into the form that took them to the county final last year.

Boherlahan impressed many the last day out as they went toe-to-toe against a fancied and strong Lorrha side in the final group game - minus a number of starters - so they will not be over-awed in the slightest, but Kilsheelan will be eager to back to brass tax.

Verdict: Kilsheelan Kilcash

Sunday, September 25:

FBD Insurance Intermediate Hurling Relegation Semi-Final

Shannon Rovers V Carrick Davins in Littleton 1.00

Another Carrick team in the form of the Davins will also be fighting for their lives on Sunday, as thy take on north opposition in Shannon Rovers.

Rovers have been a team that have stalled in their development over recent years, and it isn’t much of a surprise to see them here in all honesty.

Davins have been ravaged by injury, and the initially small pick has been even smaller as they will have known from far out that it would probably come down to two matches to salvage their year. This will be a dogged affair, but it might be that Davins will have to wait to secure their status.

Verdict: Shannon Rovers