PREDICTION: Ardnaree and Moy Davitts set for Mayo Intermediate showdown

Ardnaree Sarsfields v Moy Davitts

James Stephens Park, Ballina

Sunday, October 5, at 4 pm

North v East, with a place in the decider up for grabs, this clash should be an exciting coming together of two sides stacked with talent, flair, and skill.

The East Mayo men nearly reached the peak of the summit last year but fell short of an outstanding Crossmolina side, who went on to claim provincial and national glory while also impressing in this season’s Senior Championship.

Moy Davitts forced Brian Benson’s men to a replay and lost out narrowly on the second occasion. That experience is surely worth something, although the appointment of Paul McGarry at the start of the season brought a sense of freshness to the fold.

Wins over Kilmaine, Hollymount Carramore, and Louisburgh in the group stage meant the Moysiders topped the group before they locked horns with Ballinrobe most recently. The men from Srath Gharbh produced a fine performance that day. Now, a tough challenge with the ‘Ree awaits.

The dark horse of the 2025 Intermediate Championship? Ardnaree had an average league campaign, but when it came to the business end of the Champo, the men from Seán Duffy Park rose and are still going along nicely.

Their victory over Ballinrobe in Round Two caught the eye of most, but it’s clear the North Mayo men have talented players as well as the youth coming through, with many skillful players arising from the younger ranks.

One thing is for certain, the Sarsfields have a bright future ahead. To have a coach with the experience that Liam McHale has is a weapon for any team, and when manager Rory Clarke added him to the ticket, it felt as if something was brewing, and now that mix is almost complete, with them standing two hours away from being Sweeney Cup Champs.

On paper, Moy Davitts are a team that have a forward line-up worthy of being in the Senior ranks of Mayo football. An attack that most top clubs would love to have, but if they are to progress, the East Mayo attackers will need to click.

Cian McHale, Brian Henghan, Brian Reape, Ronan Clarke. Sounds good on paper, but the game is played on grass. If Ardnaree are to reach the final showdown, the likes of Kenzie Mc Kee, Liam Jones, and Ronan O’Malley will need to bring their ‘A’ game.

Young stars like Nathan Roddy and Ethan Convey have been impressive all season, while Ardnaree will hope to have Seaghan Duffy match fit and ready to go.

However, the favourites are Moy Davitts, and they are fancied for a reason. If their attack clicks, they should prove hard to beat. Expect a high-scoring game.

VERDICT: MOY DAVITTS