Intermediate championship semi-finals set for thrilling showdown

The TUS Intermediate Championship semi‑finals will be played on Saturday, with Naomh Eoin facing Wolfe Tones at Kildysart at 4 pm.

Both clubs featured in the 2024 intermediate final, where Wolfe Tones edged Naomh Eoin 2‑11 to 2‑07 in Cooraclare. Since then they have largely flown under the radar, but recent results have thrust them back into contention.

Naomh Eoin suffered a twelve‑point quarter‑final loss to Clondegad last season and a 15‑point opening defeat to Banner this year, prompting concerns about survival. However, they have rallied with a point against Kilrush and subsequent victories over Coolmeen, Ennistymon and a revenge win over Clondegad.

Wolfe Tones, after a brief return to senior level, were also beaten by Clondegad by twelve points in their opening round. Wins over Shannon Gaels, Liscannor and Killimer have restored confidence, and they now field twelve of the nineteen players from the 2024 final, including replacement Darragh Leahy, who scored 1‑3 off the bench.

With title favourites Clondegad and Cooraclare eliminated, the race for the Talty Stores Cup is wide open. Naomh Eoin will look to capitalise on their recent form, while Wolfe Tones aim to prove they have been tested sufficiently since their early loss.

Source: Clare Champion. Photo: Emiliano Arano / Pexels.