Pike Rovers aim to reach second major final in a week against Killarney Celtic

The Munster Junior Cup takes centre stage on Sunday afternoon as FAI Junior Cup finalists Pike Rovers are looking to reach their second major final in the space of a week when they host Killarney Celtic in the semi-final (kick-off 2.30).

Mick Shiel’s side secured their place in the FAI Junior Cup final with a dramatic extra-time win over Newmarket Celtic. Pike surrendered a two goal lead as a Stephen Kelly brace cancelled out the earlier Colin Daly double to force extra-time. Former Limerick captain Pat Purcell came close on a couple of occasions for the Clare outfit. However, substitute Cian Power scored the winner to send the Pike support into raptures. The final will take place on May 12th at the Aviva Stadium at 2pm.

Since Shiel’s return to the fold, Pike have won sixteen games on the trot including all competitions. The side can call upon experienced players like Wayne Colbert, Pat Mullins, Eoin Hanrahan and Gary Neville who have been mainstays for many years and were all present for the 2016 FAI Junior Cup final defeat to Sheriff YC. It would be a superb achievement for the southside club to reach the Munster Junior Cup final just a week later. Pike won the competition last season.

On Saturday evening, there is a full list of fixtures in Division 1A. All games have a 6.30 pm kick off as Prospect Priory will be looking to extend their five point advantage at the top of the table when they entertain Aisling Annacotty B. Second place Cappamore will face third placed Geraldines in a crucial promotion battle. The Garryowen outfit can overtake their opponents with a victory. Summerville are level on points with Geraldines and will be looking to maintain the pressure on the top two with victory over Castle Rovers who will also be looking for victory to all but secure survival. Bottom side Granville Rangers host Corbally United in a must win game.

On Sunday morning, There is a top of the table clash in the PJ Matthews Premier League as Regional will face table toppers Janesboro in Dooradoyle. Janesboro opened up a ten point advantage over their opponents with an 11-0 romp over relegation threatened Charleville on Thursday. In order for Ray Lynch’s side to stand any chance of challenging ‘Boro, they must win as they also have a game in hand.

Carew Park can move into second place with a victory over Charleville who will want to bounce back from a humiliating defeat at the hands of champions elect Janesboro at Pearse Stadium on Thursday. Kilmallock and Nenagh will square off in Kilmallock with neither side in danger of relegation at this stage of the season.