Quarter-final and relegation drama expected in the PIFC
Aghabullogue's Paul Ring tries to block a shot from Naomh Abán's Ed Myers. Picture: David Creedon
The McCarthy Insurance Group PIFC heads into a high‑stakes weekend overshadowed slighly by controversy after the Fermoy–Ballinora group game, where a scoring error altered the initial result.
Referee Wayne King had the game down as a draw, but Fermoy’s two‑point effort from Ben Twomey was only recorded as one. Had the score been correctly logged, Fermoy would have won by a point.
They lodged an objection, a hearing was held, and the objection was upheld, with Fermoy awarded the game.
Saturday’s relegation play‑off between Glanmire and Castletownbere in Ballinacarriga carries its own pressure. Glanmire, who won the Intermediate A title in 2024, were desperately unlucky not to reach the knockout stages this year.
Fine margins caught them out, most notably a late goal against Bantry Blues in their final group game that proved costly. They have shown enough across the campaign to suggest they can steady themselves, and they retain several players capable of lifting them when needed.
Daragh Murray has been one of their most consistent performers, while Harry Cogan offers pace and direct running that can trouble any defence.
Castletownbere, meanwhile, have struggled over the last couple of seasons and find themselves in a position they will be desperate to escape. They have relied heavily on the experience of Gary Murphy, one of their key figures who continues to drive them forward, while Andrew O’Sullivan remains a central presence.
Sunday’s first quarter‑final brings Naomh Abán and Macroom together in Cill na Martra, a local derby that rarely disappoints.
Naomh Abán will look to their main attacking threats to carry them over the line. Ed Myers has been central to their scoring output, while Aidan Lucey and Darragh O’Leary provide movement, accuracy and work‑rate in the forward line.
Macroom arrive with confidence after a solid group phase and have several players capable of shaping the game. Eolan O'Leary remains one of their most influential figures, while Mark Corrigan brings energy. Alan Quinn adds balance and physicality.
The second quarter‑final sees Rockchapel and Fermoy meet in Ballyclough, a fixture that has gained added edge after the recent controversy. Fermoy will again look to Ben Twomey, who was at the centre of the disputed score in the Ballinora game.
Twomey’s accuracy and influence make him a key figure, while Podge O'Neill anchors their defence.
Rockchapel, meanwhile, bring physicality, organisation and a strong work ethic. Seamus Hickey remains one of their most important players, while Ciarán Curtin is also a key figure.
Relegation play-off: Glanmire v Castletownbere, Ballinacarriga, 3.30pm.
Quarter-finals: Naomh Abán v Macroom, Cill na Martra, 3.30pm; Rockchapel v Fermoy, Ballyclough, 3.30pm.
App?
