Macroom should get first win against Gabriel Rangers while Newmarket and Kanturk can maintain winning ways

Macroom v Gabriel Rangers

MACROOM reflected on a lost opportunity after a narrow defeat to Kanturk where Dylan Twowey, Fintan Goold and Seán Kiely contributed scores, and were it not for erratic shooting, Macroom might well have landed the spoils.

Last season’s County IFC runner-up Rangers are without emigrated Eddie Goggin and Seán Kelleher with the Ballydehob/Schull side relying on Mark Cronin for scores, but they were not good enough to trouble Nemo Rangers in the opening round.

Verdict: Macroom

Cill na Martra v St. Vincents

CILL na Martra took the bragging rights from arch rivals Naomh Abán, Michéal Ó Deasúna in superb shooting form, helped by Tadgh Ó Corcora, Nollaig Ó Laoire and Danny Ó Conaill on holding a formidable presence in defence.

St Vincents are doughty campaigners, Cork panellist Wayne Long and Blake Murphy are key figures to a side that will battle right to the last whistle. Likewise, a teak tough Gaeltacht line up are well equipped and a win will almost certainly confirm a qualifying place.

Verdict: Cill na Martra

Naomh Abán v Knocknagree

AT times, Naomh Abán’s shooting didn’t always complement their approach work with a loss to Cill na Martra. Building from successful minor teams, the return from Canada of Michéal Ó Laoighaire is a boost, as is the input of coach Denis Moynihan from Rathmore. That will ensure a competitive edge.

In the last round Knocknagree pulled away from St Vincents, where again their support play and work-rate was clearly evident from Gearóid Looney’s goal. The Ballyvourney men need a result here, but Knocknagree, probably without the injured Anthony O’Connor, may not be accommodating.

Verdict: Knocknagree

Newmarket v Aghada

A SHARPER Newmarket got their campaign off to a winning start, dominating the second half to land the spoils from Na Piarsaigh with Conor and Ryan O’Keeffe netting opportunist goals for a takeover in the second half.

Aghada delivered an impressive performance to better Castletownbere, big Pierce O’Neill operated at centre forward as Danny Creedon and Cian Fleming found the range. Two well driven sides will battle right to the finish, the winners can take a stepping stone to the next stage.

Verdict: Newmarket

Kanturk v Nemo Rangers

LORCAN O’Neill’s early second half goal helped initiate a Kanturk revival against Macroom, at the end of an extended hour, a heavily depleted side availed of a late Alan Walsh point to shade matters. Aidan and Ryan Walsh along with Ian Walsh are likely to return.

There were no problems for Nemo’s second string to record a nine point triumph over Gabriel Rangers, two goals from Luke Horgan and the creative play of the Dalton brothers swung matters.

Nemo will give it a go but Kanturk are entitled to wear the favourites tag.

Verdict: Kanturk