Eight sides left to contest four quarter finals. Ulster represented by Clogher Valley and Portadown with three sides remaining from Leinster and Munster. The four Connacht sides were eliminated in the previous round. Interesting to note that both Clogher Valley and Portadown sit 1st and 2nd in their league. Dundalk are second in their league behind runaway leaders Wanderers who were surprisingly defeated by Tralee in the previous round. None of the other sides remaining in the Cup are challenging for league honours in their provinces.
Clogher Valley v Kilfeacle and District
Enniscorthy v Coolmine
Portadown v Dundalk
Skibereen v Tralee.
Clogher Valley v Kilfeacle
After a nail biting win over Munster league leaders Kanturk in the first round Clogher will be expected to win this game against Munster side Kilfeacle who have only won one from six of their opening league games. Munster sides always have a hard edge and the Valley side will have to match that physicality if they are to win this game. Clogher Valley reponded from their surprising Junior Cup defeat at Ballyclare to crush Dromore 48 – 10 at Barban Hill last Saturday. Coaches Davy Black and Glen Kyle want the All Ireland Junior Cup added to their impressive CV. With Captain Stephen Baxter leading from the front, he will have the experience of the Wilson brothers and the ever consistent David Sharkey to meet the physical challenge up front. Out half Philip Holme was sorely missed against Ballyclare and his return was telling in the win at Dromore. The Fivemiletown side have talent throughout the backs in Paul Armstrong, David Dunlop, Clive Donaldson and scrum half Aaron Best. Expect a very large crowd at the Cran for this Cup tie.
Portadown v Dundalk
The County Armagh side recorded an excellent win at Monivea to progress to the Quarter finals. They meet Leinster side Dundalk who narrowly defeated Donaghadee 12 – 10 in the first round. The Dundalk side are coached by Kiwi Ene Faatau who plays at number eight. Their scrum half TC Campbell marshalled his team in difficult conditions and contolled the game. In centre Isaia Petelo they had a player who was capable of breaking the gain line. Full back Ultan Murphy kicked four penalties to win the game. Dundalk were well organised and will provide a stern challenge for the Portadown side. Coach Richard Hedley will know his side have to keep their discipline and use their forward power to win this game. With the backrow of Gary Hall, James Caleton and Diarmund O’Kane they have the experience to dominate the set piece and the breakdown area. Again expect a very physical contest with the Ulster side having to stand up to the Leinster sides physicality. There should be another large crowd turning out at Chambers park for this apetising cup tie.
