Cork GAA previews: Knockout spots up for grabs as Sars wait in the wings

The Intermediate A HC knockout spots will be decided on Friday night.

Mark Hickey of Kilbrittain takes a free. Pic: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Friday September 4 

Intermediate A HC 

Group 1

Aghada v Kilbrittain, Cloughduv, (N Hayes) 7:30pm 

Kilbrittain have made full use of the momentum gathered from January's All-Ireland JHC triumph over Easkey. Despite leading the Bandon encounter late on and ending up with only a point, their forwards should hold too much firepower for Aghada, as they did in the opener against Russell Rovers.

Verdict: Kilbrittain

Bandon v Russell Rovers, Páirc Uí Rinn, (M Maher) 7:30pm 

Pat Barry and Mark Sugrue ensured Bandon were not beaten by local rivals Kilbrittain last time out. A result here secures knockout status and we fancy them to do just that but must be wary of the Russell Rovers threat up front from Josh Beausang and co.

Verdict: Bandon

Group 2

Mallow v Blackrock, Glantane, (C Lane) 7:30pm 

While Mallow currently sit atop Group 2, there is still much room for manoeuvre heading into the final round, with all teams in with a mathematical chance of qualifying. Mallow need to keep the backdoor shut, unlike against five-goal Kildorrery two weeks ago. Blackrock to edge this one.

Verdict: Blackrock

Midleton v Kildorrery, Mourneabbey, (K O'Sullivan) 7:30pm 

Midleton get the nod here. Two tough battles against Mallow and Blackrock will have them well hardened to overcome bottom-side Kildorrery.

Verdict: Midleton

Group 3

Erin's Own v Youghal, Carrigtwohill, (J Smiddy) 7:30pm 

Level on points heading into the deciding round; this one could go either way. The battle for second place in Group 2, as we see it, and goals could be key in Carrigtwohill.

Verdict: Erin's Own

Sarsfields v Ballygiblin, Ballyhooley, (P O'Driscoll) 7:30pm 

Victory over Youghal guaranteed Sars' knockout berth for the second top-scorers in the IAHC. With Cian McCarthy and Kevin Crowley to the fore up-front and at the back, respectively, expect the Riverstown club to keep building momentum.

Verdict: Sarsfields