TWO BUCCS TEAMS IN CUP FINALS ON SUNDAY
Two Buccaneers teams contest Connacht Cup finals on Sunday when Sligo will be opponents in both deciders at the Dexcom Stadium in Galway in what is an extremely busy weekend for Youths Cup matches. Buccs U-16s kick-off at 1.30 p.m. when they will be bidding to retain the Enda O’Rourke Memorial Cup. This Pirates crew recorded the League and Cup double at U-15 last season and will be optimistic of capturing the magnificent trophy although Sligo are also a significant force at youths levels.
Buccs also won the U-17 Cup last season and the majority of that squad form the backbone of the club’s U-18.5 side against a formidable Sligo unit. However, there is lots of talent and experience in the Athlone squad but they will need to improve on their fortunate semi-final win against Ballina. However, the 4G surface at the Dexcom should prove more conducive to their preferred style of play. The action in this decider commences at 3.30 p.m.
Buccaneers U-17s are also in Cup action with their Connacht semi-final away to Corinthians, which was postponed due to Corinthian Park being unplayable, rescheduled for Sunday with a 12 noon start. So it looks like being a busy day in Galway for Pirates supporters.
Finally, Buccs U-13s drew away to Gort 7-7 in their Cup semi-final. Scoring was extremely low, mainly due to very challenging pitch conditions. The Athlone boys will be hopeful that home advantage for the replay at Dubarry Park on Saturday will help them progress to the final. Kick-off is 1.30 p.m.
