Dromid Pearses should have too much power for exiles

NEWCASTLE-based club Cú Chullains will make history tomorrow as they compete in the All-Ireland Club championship only four years into their existence.

Founded in 2007, Cú Chullains emerged from the British JFC ranks for the first time this season and will now attempt to prolong their adventure against Dromid Pearses.

Cú Chullains, who compete in the Yorkshire League and Championship, are the only GAA club in the north east of England, drawing their players from Newcastle, Sunderland, Teeside and Durham. Dromid Pearses are not the first South Kerry club to pit themselves against English opponents in the All-Ireland Club JFC. Last January, St Mary’s (Caherciveen) beat Manchester outfit St Peter’s, who had previously shocked Mayo champions Parke, at the semi-final stage, while in 2008 Skellig Rangers had only a point to spare in a gripping All-Ireland decider with Liverpool side John Mitchels.

The latter experience will put Dromid Pearses on their guard. Declan O’Sullivan is their figurehead. but his younger brother Dominick and Kevin O’Shea have been impressive in defence, while Thomas Curran and Niall O’Shea have shown up well in attack. A replication of their form should see Dromid Pearses prevail.

Verdict: Dromid Pearses.