Do or die weekend, as local derby looms

(JJ Hurley)

Huge Derby down for decision

This weekend coming will see the county hurling scene get back into action and there are a number of mouthwatering games down for decision.

On Sunday, Ballygarvan face Tracton in Riverstick at 2pm. Having lost their first game, Tracton will need to secure something and Ballygarvan could well see themselves progress to the next stage of the competition, if they can overcome their rivals.

The last time the teams met in a competitive final was in 2023, when Ballygarvan had the upper hand as they defeated their South East rivals in the county league final in Carrigaline.

Last year, saw both sides having a very positive innings, as Tracton won the Junior A County Hurling Competition and Ballygarvan reached the semi-final of the Premier Junior A Hurling Championship, but lost out to St Catherines.

Sunday will see Michael O'Sullivan absent from the Tracton ranks as he received a straight red in the Minane Bridge's opener against Argideen Rangers, a loss that could prove costly.

Also on Sunday, Ballinhassig have a crucial clash with Castlemartyr in Cobh at 14.15pm, after a fine performance in the opening round, defeating a fancied Ballincollig side, victory on Sunday would be significant.

However, as this has been dubbed the group of death, nothing can be certain and the Blues will not want to drop their guard.

Carrigaline hurlers will hope to get their season back on track when they face Eire Og in Cloughduv at 7.30pm tonight, Friday.

A surprise defeat to Cloyne in the opening game of the Co-op Superstore Premier Intermediate Championship will need Carrig to secure something from tonight's game against Eire Og.

Locally, in the Junior A Competition Belgooly proved far too strong in their opening game for Courcey's, but the surprise package has been Ballymartle, who only lost out to one of the favourites for the competition, Valley Rovers by a single point.

Sunday, Kinsale open their campaign against Courcey Rovers in Shanbally at 3pm, and on the previous day, another dark horse for the competition Carrigaline face Ballinhassig at 4.30pm.

Shadow-boxing is over as championship is well and truly underway