Clann na nGael expected to repeat the trick against Drumree

Drumree and Clann na nGael are probably a surprise semi-final pairing in the IHC this Saturday in Devenish Park at 4pm but credit to the two sides they fully deserve their spot in the knock-out stages.

It is a fantastic opportunity for the two teams and there will certainly be intensity and hunger on display.

No one really knew what to expect from Clann na nGael when they dropped to the intermediate ranks. They were slow to settle and the first-round defeat to Donaghmore/Ashbourne is evidence of that.

However, Eamon O Donnchadha’s return changed their fortunes and they picked up two important victories in the final two rounds, firstly against St Peter’s and then backed it up with a win over the team they will face this weekend, Drumree.

They have grown into the competition well and belief is starting to grow that a return to the senior ranks, albeit SHC B, could be on the cards.

If the side based in Athboy/Rathcairn want to book their spot in the final they will first have to get the better of a tough Drumree side again and this time there will be much much more on the line.

At full tilt Drumree are a tough team to break down and they have a potent full-forward line that includes Josh Wall and Sean Doyle.

Having said that though, Clann na nGael’s experience and of course the prolific Eamon O Donnchadha, Joe Ennis and Luke Ennis makes Drumree’s task of reversing the form from last time out a difficult one. Verdict - Clann na nGael.