'Nothing easy against Nemo' — Castlehaven braced for quarter-final test after defeating Knocknagree

Castlehaven manager Seanie Cahalane cut a satisfied but grounded figure after his side’s 2-18 to 4-10 winner‑takes‑all McCarthy Insurance Group Premier SFC Group 3 Round 3 victory over Knocknagree at Páirc Uí Rinn on Sunday.

The result pushed Haven into a quarter-final meeting with Nemo Rangers, yet Cahalane’s tone throughout was one of respect for Knocknagree. 

Reflecting on the overall display, he felt Castlehaven had been tuned in from the outset.

“In all fairness to them, I think our lads were very much clued into it,” he said. 

“The league final against Knocknagree had sharpened minds. They’re a great side. We knew they were a great side. They’re great individual players, they play as a team, they defend as a team. So coming up here today, we were worried and we knew we had to be on our A game.

“I think we were on our game for 50 minutes, but just towards the end, it was a bit disappointing.” 

That late wobble aside, Castlehaven’s start was exactly what they had targeted. They struck 1-3 early, a burst that set the tone and forced Knocknagree to chase.

“Look, our third quarter typically would be a poor quarter. And I think we excelled in that 15 to 20 minutes after half-time. We really drove it on. So look, we’re very happy with that element.

“We were relatively happy after half-time, but it’s just the four goals. I suppose we were a bit disappointed with it. The defenders got isolated a bit too easy. I know the second one was a bit fortunate, but at the same time, we probably should have more cover there.” 

Knocknagree’s 2-3 finish was a reminder that Castlehaven’s defensive structure will need tightening ahead of the knockout stages.

Cahalane also noted how the new rules have altered the rhythm of games.

“Teams are going to score and teams have certain periods of momentum,” he says.

“You just have to accept that and manage that period of time when they are on top. Overall, we managed it very well bar the last 10 minutes. We know though that we will have to improve.” 

One of the standout performers was Conor Cahalane, who landed 1-5 despite a hectic recent schedule.

“Excellent, yeah. He was hurling last weekend with the Barrs. It’s not easy. He’s an excellent player. He showed his pure quality there today. And he had even a touch of sickness during the week as well. So to put in that performance today was outstanding.” 

Attention now shifts to the quarter-final, where Castlehaven will face Nemo Rangers — news Cahalane had only just received.

“They’ll be tough. They know us and we know them very well.

“Nemo are a great side, a great club. They’re a club we always look up to. We’re going to have nothing easy against them in a quarter-final. It’ll be tit-for-tat.

“But look, it’s the business end of the year now. You have to perform to get over the line. I think our lads performed today in spells. You have to put in a 60-minute performance if you want to beat Nemo.” 

Finally, on Jack Cahalane’s fitness, the Haven boss said there was no update yet.

“We’re just waiting on certain scans and stuff. He will be doubtful for the next day.”