Men's Hockey Irish Senior CupAlthough west Cork people who are passionate about the rugby international must wonder why 1.30 is also the hit-off time of Bandon's first appearance in the Irish Senior Cup semi-finals, an enthusiastic attendance is still expected to see the home team take on Instonians, the cup holders and (if fading?) all-Ireland champions.
Bandon have shown indomitable spirit in reaching this stage, but they know the five teams they have eliminated do not have the ability of tomorrow's visitors. A realistic forecast is that Instonians will win by, say, 4-1, even if Ireland defender Paddy Brown continues to nurse a leg injury.
Ranging from Neil Cooke at the back to Andrew Cousins and Mark Irwin in attack, the Belfast side will play with patience and thrust to forge their passage to the final. No doubt, though, goalkeeper Ian Hosford, along with Colin Crowley and David Smith, will be foremost in Bandon's stoic resistance.
The second semi-final at Lough Moss promises to be more of a classic as Annadale - once more at the penultimate stage - attempt to achieve for the first time what their opponents, Lisnagarvey, have done in winning the trophy over so many seasons. Graham Shaw of Annadale, who figured in Glenanne's triumph in 2001, is seeking a second medal to emulate fellow southerner Pakenham Pim, who enjoyed success with Lisnagarvey in their invincible era a decade ago.
Lisnagarvey are again aiming to be the most accomplished team in the country as Tim Cockram epitomises the vein of rising talent in the club. But, first, Annadale deserve a breakthrough, notably to reward Ronnie Smyth's family for all their efforts.
If Chris Jackson and Shaw can generate sufficient impetus in midfield, short-corner opportunities may well give Ian Hamilton the chance to strike decisively. YetLisnagarvey are bound to play with the utmost determination, with Mark Raphael being the main dangerman.
TOMORROW: Irish Senior Cup - Semi-finals: Bandon v Instonians, Bandon GS, 1.30 (R Ewart, I Conning); Annadale v Lisnagarvey, Lough Moss, 2.30 (C Hutchinson, D Stewart); Leinster Senior League: Division One: Dublin University v Railway Union, Santry, noon; YMCA v Three Rock Rovers, Claremont Road, noon; Division Two: Skerries v UCD, RCSI, noon; Suttonians v Naas, Sutton, 11am; Avoca v St Brendan's-Phoenix Park, Newpark, 12.15; St James's Gate v Bray, Iveagh Grounds, 1.30.
