Meath Hill fancied to build on high confidence and survive

At the start of the year, Meath Hill were warm favourites to return straight back down to the IFC ranks and while they do find themselves in a relegation battle, as expected, they will be brimming with confidence ahead of relegation semi-final clash with Simonstown in Castletown on Friday after they stunned Rathkenny with a historic first-ever SFC victory in the final round of the group. Cormac Sheehy’s last gasp two-pointer was the headliner on a day that was filled with drama, writes Tom Gannon.

Simonstown might still feel a little bit hard done by after a contentious referee’s decision in round two has had an impact on their fate.

Truth being told, they probably are, at the moment, among the weaker sides in the SFC and they are going to have to fight for their senior status.

Joe Lyons squad is not without talent. Aaron Farrelly is certainly a promising player and one to keep an eye out for in the future. They do lack the depth required though to be that bit more competitive in the SFC.

Before the final round of group games, many probably would have said that Meath Hill will be fortunate to avoid a relegation final, but that performance against Rathkenny, especially after they made such a slow start to the game, has really thrown the cat amongst the pigeons.

Former IFC champions have a very good record of maintaining their senior status the following year and Meath Hill can keep that trend going with a win over Simonstown.

Prediction - Meath Hill.