Ballinhassig Face Huge Challenge

Blues Ready for Battle as They Take on Ballincollig in County Final Showdown

(JJ Hurley)

Ballinhassig will face their toughest test of the year this Sunday when they take on Ballincollig in the Co-op Superstores Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship final at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Although Ballinhassig defeated their near-neighbours earlier in the season during the league phase, Ballincollig have since raised their game, most recently overcoming a highly fancied Dungourney side in the semi-final.

Speaking to The Carrigdhoun at one of the Blues’ final training sessions, team captain and talisman Ger Collins said his side know exactly what’s required on the big day.

“Every fella will have to put their shoulder to the wheel, but we are fully focused for it,” he said.

Reflecting on that earlier-season win, Collins insists it will have little bearing on Sunday’s contest.

“That was six or seven weeks ago and it’s a completely different game now — completely different conditions,” he said.

Despite the pressure of a county final, Collins is urging his teammates to embrace the occasion in what promises to be a fascinating battle.

It’s 13 years since Ballinhassig last tasted county success, when they defeated another near neighbour, Bandon, 1-19 to 1-15. Two players from that winning side — Fintan O’Leary and Michael Collins — are set to feature again this weekend. O’Leary hit 1-2 in that 2012 final and will hope to make a similar impact this time around.

Ballinhassig will also have Cork’s number one net minder

between the posts, whose long puck-outs and accuracy from placed balls could prove crucial.

In their recent win over East Cork outfit Cloyne, Darragh O’Sullivan again showed why he’s part of the Cork senior setup.

However, the absence of his brother Adam, as well as Brian Lynch and Evan Cullinane, are losses the Blues could do without.

Even so, Charlie Grainger and Conor Desmond have impressed, while Seán Lombard — introduced from the bench in the semi-final — grabbed an all important goal.

For the management team, it’s been a busy week keeping things grounded in a parish steeped in hurling.

With every second house decorated in blue and white flags and bunting, excitement is reaching fever pitch.

Team manager John O’Sullivan will be doing his best to keep focus tight ahead of throw-in.

Fellow selector John Paul Griffin admits it's difficult not to get caught up in the buzz but says the squad are firmly focused on the task at hand.

“Look, it’s exciting times. It’s our first county final in 13 years, it’s a great achievement to get there, and we’re looking forward to it — but the lads have prepared well,” he said.

Admitting that Ballincollig will go in as favourites, Griffin added:“We did meet them in the first round. Going into that game, Ballincollig had injuries, but now they’re coming with a full panel.”

Despite the challenge ahead, Griffin believes the Blues have every chance of bringing silverware back to Ballinhassig.

“They’ve worked hard to get to the final. For me, the big thing is that they put in a performance — and I’m confident they will. We’ll see on the day when that takes us,” he said.

“We have a nice mix of experience and youth, and the older lads really communicate well with the younger lads in the dressing room, giving that sense of calmness.”

All eyes will now be on Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Sunday at 2.30pm to see if Ballinhassig’s blend of experience and enthusiasm can deliver county glory once again.