Attacking edge will be key in clash of Moyside rivals
Ardnaree’s Ethan Convey is one of everal exciting young prospects in the Ardnaree ranks. Picture: David Farrell Photography
When one was looking at potential semi-final pairings for this year’s intermediate championship, it would be safe to say the meeting of Moy Davitts and Ardnaree Sarsfields was not one that many, if anyone, had spoken of.
Ardnaree have been something of a surprise package in this year’s race for the Sweeney Cup, but they have been full value for their run to the last four. After a draw in their opening round clash with North Mayo rivals Lahardane MacHales, they defeated Ballinrobe and Castlebar Mitchels ‘B’ to top their group before defeating Parke-Keelogues-Crimlin in the last eight, their first win at the quarter-final stage after three previous defeats since winning the county junior title in 2015.
You would have to go back to 1973 for Ardnaree’s last appearance in an intermediate semi-final during what was a memorable period for the club. They won junior in 1971 and would reach back-to-back intermediate finals in 1972 and ‘73, so these are rare times for all involved along Healy Terrace. But with firepower in Nathan Roddy, Ethan Convey, Cathal Noone and John Timlin who boast the frequent ability to hit two-pointers, they will certainly test a Moy Davitts backline that can be got it.
It's at the other end of the pitch where Ardnaree Sarsfields will have to be at their absolute best however, and it could be the difference in this one. Moy Davitts have been the biggest scorers in the intermediate championship so far, with 11-68 to their name. Sean Kelly, Brian Heneghan, Ronan Clarke, former Mayo attacker Brian Reape and current Mayo forward Cian McHale form as cohesive and devastating attack as any left in the championship while Conor Reid will be crucial to Moy Davitts’ hopes around the heart of midfield.
While they statistically have the best attack, their problems defensively are well-known. Moy Davitts and Kilmaine had the worst defensive record of all eight quarter-finalists and while the East Mayo outfit did account for Ballinrobe in the quarter-final, the Robesiders spurned a number of chances that could easily have seen them in the semi-finals instead.
Opportunities for Moy Davitts to return to senior will not come around for ever. Semi-finalists in 2022 and 2023, they were beaten by Crossmolina Deel Rovers in a final replay last year and they will know that the window is shortening.
On paper, Moy Davitts appear the likely victors and if it becomes a shootout, their renowned attack will be too much for Ardnaree to handle. But don’t rule out another Sarsfields surprise either.
