Crokes scoring power to scupper Shamrocks

COUNTY SFC QUARTER-FINAL

Dr Crokes v Kenmare Shamrocks

Sunday, September 24 Fitzgerald Stadium at 1.30 Referee: Padraig O’Sullivan

AN interesting sequel to the Senior Club Final played at the same venue the weekend before last, and on the basis of that game this rematch is difficult to call.

We probably would have figured on Dr Crokes winning that Club final a lot easier than their extra-time three-point margin, and that was down to the excellent of Kenmare rather than much, if anything, Crokes did wrong.

With Sean O’Shea leading the attack, and Stephen O’Brien and Paul O’Connor in prolific support roles, Crokes met a club team every bit as eager for success as themselves. If Kenmare bring that same desire to Sunday’s contest - and why wouldn’t they - then the county and All-Ireland Club champions should be in for a heck of test again.

It should be noted that had Crokes displayed a little more composure in that wind-assisted first half they could and should have been further ahead at the break. Colm Cooper, of course, remains central to their cause, but Daithi Casey remains an authorative figure in the heart of the team, as does Johnny Buckley.

If Gavin Whiet can get a little tighter on O’Shea and Fionn Fitzgerald keep O’Brien’s scoring and assists to a minimum the suspicion is that Crokes - at their favoured location - will craft enough scores to get over the line.

Kenmare will have taken great confidence from that Club Final effort but a repeat performance - and some more - will be required. It’s a big ask.

Verdict: Dr Crokes