Uibh Laoire will try set the early tone as PIFC throws in
Uibh Laoire's Chris Óg Jones shoots from Macroom's Johnny Murphy. Picture: Eddie O'Hare
The McCarthy Insurance Group PIFC returns this weekend with a fresh edge of intrigue and renewed ambition across all three groups.
The one very clear question hanging over the grade, can Uibh Laoire go one better? Last year’s beaten finalists came within a kick of lifting the title, only to be edged out by Aghabullogue in a tense decider.
Their response since has been emphatic. Promotion from Division 2 has sharpened their form, deepened their confidence, and placed them firmly among the favourites as the 2026 campaign opens.
Uibh Laoire’s Group 1 opener against Glanmire in Kilmurry this evening is one of the standout fixtures of the weekend. Glanmire won promotion from Division 4 and remain a side with pace and scoring power when they click.
Still, Uibh Laoire’s cohesion and Chris Óg Jones’ presence could well tilt the balance.
Bantry Blues meet Rockchapel in the group’s other tie in Cill na Martra tomorrow.
Bantry will lean heavily on Ruairí Deane’s ball-winning ability and the creativity of Dara Sheedy if he’s passed fit following an injury, while Rockchapel’s physical edge and defensive structure make them notoriously difficult to break down.
Group 2 is arguably the most balanced of the three. Kiskeam open against Aghada in what feels like a toss-of-a-coin encounter tomorrow in Donoughmore. Kiskeam’s hopes rest on the influence of Seán Meehan, while Aghada’s blend of youth and experience gives them a strong platform. 2010 All-Ireland winner Pearse O’Neill is still going strong.
Macroom’s meeting with Castletownbere is another tight one tomorrow evening in Bantry. Macroom will look to Cillian Donovan to set the tone around midfield. Castletownbere, now coached by former Kerry footballer Gavin Crowley, will look to Fintan Fenner to make things tick.
Group 3 carries its own intrigue. Naomh Abán, with a strong management ticket, will look to impress after losing the last two semi-finals. Ed Myers will be the focal point in attack for his side’s clash with Fermoy tomorrow in Ballyclough.
Fermoy will look to reset after dropping down from the grade above at the end of last season. It’s important to stabilise first, and they will relish this kind of game. In Ben Twomey, they have one of the best forwards in this grade.
Finally, Ballinora step into the grade with confidence after winning the IAFC. Their opener against Nemo Rangers’ second team is a dangerous one in Ovens on Sunday evening.
The Muskerry side are also without their star man Neil Lordan for the championship due to travelling. Nemo Rangers’ second string are tricky opponents at the best of times, especially on the opening weekend.
Uibh Laoire v Glanmire, Kilmurry, 7.15pm.
Bantry Blues v Rockchapel, Cill na Martra, 3pm; Kiskeam v Aghada, Donoughmore, 4pm; Macroom v Castletownbere, Bantry; Naomh Abán v Fermoy, Ballyclough, both 7pm.
Nemo Rangers v Ballinora, Ovens, 7.15pm.
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