IFC as tough as ever

WE don’t need a draw to tell us how tough and competitive the intermediate championship will be each season and the 2017 edition will be no different.

Even last year’s runners up Mattock Rangers can take nothing for granted, despite drawing new boys St Kevin’s and Oliver Plunketts in Group A.

With a young talented attack St Kevin’s be could dark horses to snatch a quarter-final spot and Plunketts will be no pushover either under former Louth defender John Neary.

St Bride’s and Clan Na Gael will meet for the second year running, but with Na Piarsaigh taking Mattock’s place, it isn’t quite the group of death it was last year.

It’s a big challenge for the Rock Raod men to split two of the favourites for Seamus Flood glory.

The derby clash between Naomh Fionnbarra and O’Connell’s should get pulses racing out on the coast and Dundalk Young Irelands will feel they can also have a big say in what is a competitive looking Group C.

O’Connell’s made the drop from senior last year and will be keen to make a swift return, but the Barrs and Irelands will also feel they are capable of embarking on a lenghty summer journey.

St Fechin’s and St Mochta’s clash again in Group D and the presence of Hunterstown Rovers maks it another even section.

All three would fancy their chances of going all the way, never mind making the quarter-finals.