Semi-final great escape suggests that Cille’s name is on the trophy

1-11. It was only in their final group game that they clinched a knockout spot by overcoming St Michael’s 2-9 to 0-11.

They sprung something of a surprise when defeating a fancied Trim 2-9 to 0-7 in a quarter-final tie and booked their spot in the decider following a 1-12 to 0-10 victory over Ballinabrackey.

Their game is built on a solid defence in front of experienced keeper David Jennings. They generally employ a sweeper and that strategy has proved successful so far. Stylish midfielder Paddy Kennelly, alongside the hard-working Liam Dempsey, could well prove a handful for the Cille’s.

Dunderry don’t tally massive scores, but in Stephen Coogan, Simon Carty, Luke Martyn and Conor Farrell they possess plenty of scoring power.

Cille’s will hope that their display in extra time against Walterstown was their true form and not what they produced in the opening 60 minutes. They certainly have match-winners in the likes of Graham Reilly, Ben Brennan, Ciaran Kelly and young James Conlon.

Colm Nally also seems to have plenty of options on the bench as well if a crisis arises.

Overall, Dunderry possess a huge work ethic but lack the overall mobility and scoring power of the Cille’s. If Cille’s learn from their mistakes against Walterstown, settle into their game and try and build up an early lead it would force Dunderry to go at them.

That might help to free up some space for the likes of Conlon, Brennan and Kelly, and if that happens then Cille’s should be well on their way to repeating their win of 1988 over the same opposition.