GROUP A

Hunterstown

Manager: Jim Matthews Go-to-guy: Ryan Burns Group rivals: St Fechin’s & St Mochta’s 2017: Quarter-final Last 3: W - Naomh Fionnbarra 2-9 : 0-12 L - O’Connells 2-16 : 0-7 L - O Raghallaighs 1-15 : 2-11 Verdict: League challenge faded somewhat after a bright start but still capable of mixing it with the best in the Championship. They’ll have to hit the ground running against an in-form St Mochta’s side and a Fechin’s outfit that are never easy to beat, but fancied to progress.

St Fechin’s

Manager: Eugene Judge Go-to-guy: Bevan Duffy Group rivals: Hunterstown & St Mocht’s 2017: Relegation play-offs Last 3: W - Roche Emmets 1-12 : 1-10 L - Glyde Rangers 0-14 : 0-13 W - St Mochta’s 0-17 : 0-12 Verdict: Blew hot and cold in the league, hence a mid-table position. Would have fancied their chances in two of the other three groups, but may not quite have the x-factor required in this tough group. Whoever loses out shouldn’t have anything to fear relegation wise.

St Mochta’s

Manager: Seamus McGahon Go-to-guy: Declan Byrne Group rivals: Hunterstown & St Fechin’s 2017: Quarter-final Last 3: W - St Joseph’s 1-10 : 1-7 W - O Raghallaigh’s 2-10 : 1-11 L - St Fechin’s 0-17 : 0-12 Verdict: Appear to be hitting form at the right time and are tipped to reach the knockoutsm, despite a tough draw. Thereafter they have a bit to prove having bowed out to Mattock two years in succession in the semi and quarter-finals respectively.