PREVIEW: High stakes in crunch West Mayo Intermediate relegation derby

Louisburgh v Burrishoole

Islandeady

Sunday, September 28, 12 noon

In August of 2024, these two proud West Mayo teams met in a Division Two league play-off. The winner got promoted to Division One, where the clashes of Senior clubs were welcomed.

Burrishoole secured victory that day, and this season, they locked horns with the very best. Liam O’Malley’s side claimed victory on the opening day, but ever since then, it was downhill as the men from McGovern Park went winless, although that doesn't paint the entire picture.

Burrishoole were competitive in many games and were perhaps unfortunate to finish in the manner that occurred.

Louisburgh, on the other hand, haven't beaten a Senior or Intermediate team all year. In fact, the only teams they beat were Westport B, Killal,a and Swinford.

Looking at Louisburgh’s team sheet, it’s clear there’s talented players across the team. Alfie Morrison, Basil McLeod, Martin Ball, and Dylan Prendergast have all played underage for Mayo in recent years, but for whatever reason, the men from ‘God’s Pocket’ have failed to fire this year.

It's been a disappointing Championship campaign so far, but it could get worse as they are just 60 minutes away from Junior ranks.

Although O’Malley’s Burrishoole side have gone up against well-seasoned elite teams this year, their Championship outcomes have been poor up to date.

Playing well in patches against Kilmeena, Cill Chomáin, The Neale and Lahardane, they have have failed to bring results and now they will need a performance that is put in across the 60 plus minutes this weekend.

Fintan McManamon and Adam Reihill have been flying the flag in the scoring department this season for the Burris' men, but now they need others to step up if they are to avoid the dreaded drop. Louisburgh, on the other hand, will need likewise, as in recent seasons, they have relied heavily on the talented Dylan Prendergast up top.

This will be a battle, a dogfight, and whoever is to win will have earned it come close to 2 pm on Sunday.

One thing is for sure, that one of these proud Clew Bay clubs will be playing Junior football in 2026. If Burrishoole are to survive, they’ll need a bigger spread of scorers, but it could be the case that their opponents can rise and grip onto that precious Intermediate status.

With Dylan Prendergast to the fore, the men from the shadows of the reek can edge it, although a close affair should be expected.

VERDICT: LOUISBURGH