Bishopstown and the Barrs bounce back but Na Piarsaigh crash out of the SHC

ST Finbarr’s and Bishopstown recorded two vital victories in the back door of the Cork Senior Hurling Championship at the weekend.

The city sides secured their places in the draw for the third-round, which will be made in Páirc Uí Rinn tonight, over Killeagh and Kanturk respectively. However, it was an entirely different story for Na Piarsaigh as they were eliminated by Bride Rovers after a dominant display from the East Cork outfit.

The Barrs, seeking to end a lengthy famine in Togher, were put to the pin of their collar to see off Killeagh, winning on a scoreline of 2-15 to 2-13.

They made life extremely difficult for themselves by shooting 23 wides over the hour in Midleton but they got the verdict in the end.

One of their brace of goals, delivered by Cork U21 star Billy Hennessy will surely be a contender for goal of the season, a sublime solo effort in the opening half that eventually proved crucial.

Former Cork stars, Pa Cronin and Shane O’Neill were in majestic form for Bishopstown as they overcame newcomers Kanturk. O’Neill, in particular, gave a tremendous display of top-class defending while Cronin contributed handsomely in the attack.

There was no joy for Na Piarsaigh as they exited the competition, going down tamely to Bride Rovers. This would be considered a surprising result given the city club were beaten by just a point by Blackrock in last season’s semi-final.

However, Rovers fully deserved their win and had Daniel Dooley, Barry Johnson, Brian Roche and Einne Ó hEochaidh in splendid scoring form. 

Ballymartle are up and running too, recovering magnificently from their first-day loss to the Glen to easily account for Ballyhea.

Barry O’Dwyer, Brian Corry, Jamie O’Dwyer and Jack Dwyer all posted big scores for them.

In the IHC, Barry Lawton secured 2-10 for Castlemartyr in their fine win over a very strong Glen Rovers unit.

Meanwhile, there is still nothing definite on the date and venue for the All-Ireland U21 final between Cork and Tipperary on August 25/26.

It is believed that Tipp are not in favour of tossing for Páirc Uí Chaoimh or Thurles which could bring the game to the Gaelic Grounds with Nowlan Park also being mentioned as well.