11 a.m.: Cavan vs. Fermanagh

The first of the two New York Ladies GAA semifinals pits last year’s runners-up Cavan versus Fermanagh. Cavan are seeded first as they won the regular season title.
 
It is all new now however, as all teams are well acclimatized with their sanctioned players and looking for the glory of the Sean Faherty Championship.

Cavan have a settled squad with Theresa Marron, Aoife O’Rourke and Karen Feeney blending in perfectly. All three are excellent ball carriers, with O’Rourke a brilliant defender.

Nicola O’Reilly and Caroline McBrian are others who help to solidify the defense. Emma Clarke is carrying an injury and may be a game day decision, to play while Nicola King and Rosie O’Reilly Broderick are playing very well in the corners beside her.

Fermanagh will counter with a defense that features Tracy Ann McCullough and Rosie Toner in the center. McCullough is staking a claim for player of the year honors. Clare McElroy, Caroline Murphy, who is a dynamo in front of goal, Loretta Cunningham, who if she gets enough of supply can change a game herself, and Maebh DeBurca will push Cavan all the way. DeBurca is a terrific player, but because of her commitments to Ireland as soccer player is not always available.

It promises to be a great opening to Sunday’s card. Can’t call this one as a little to close to it.


12:30 p.m. Na Fianna vs. Kerry/Donegal

The second semi has all the makings of being the game of the day. Don’t miss it!

While Na Fianna are looking to get back to the final to defend their crown, they will face an opponent that will give them a full day at the office.
Na Fianna are a well balanced side with a powerful center line. Catriona Lynch, Joanne Monaghan, Aine Dwyer, Deirdre Doherty and Molly O’Rourke ooze confidence.

Monaghan is back to her best after injuries curtailed her.  Dwyer is another player with player of the year aspirations based on displays.
Selena Moylan, Orlagh Egan and Stephanie Tierney are others who supplement the side with consistently strong performances.

Kerry/Donegal will counter with a belief in themselves as they have already beaten Na Fianna in the regular season. Deirdre Maher is a very confident keeper with strong kick outs.

The back line will have Deirdre Foley following Molly O’Rourke, Louise Lilly set up to tail Doherty and Niamh Britton, Una Burke and Aoife Gibson helping out.

Cathriona Brady is having an outstanding year. She is terrifying when she runs at you, in a football context.

Kelly Roche may be at 11 or in the center, while Elish Ward, Niamh Cunningham and Denise Dunnion are a tremendous full forward line.
This one will keep us on the edge of our seats start to finish. Do not miss it!