PREVIEW: Are Sarsfields on the right track to derail Cuala?

Sarsfields have taken a leaf out of their opponents Cuala’s book when they (Cuala) played Naas two years ago they hired a special train to get to Newbridge.

This time it is the Kildare champs who will be taking to the tracks as they have arranged a special ‘Sash Train’ departing 2.15, returning immediately after the game and with live music back in the clubhouse it could be another night to remember.

Getting to Parnell Park is the easy bit though as Sarsfields face up to hot favs (1/3) to make it through to the last four.

Needless to say that won’t bother the Newbridge boys who are still buoyant having secured their first Kildare senior championship title in seven years two weeks ago.

Cuala defeated Castleknock comfortably in the Dublin decider, went on to take out Tullamore in the AIB Leinster Club quarters; it took a later two-pointer from Con O’Callaghan, to get them over the line.

Cuala have some big names in their side, the four O’Callaghan’s brothers (Con, Niall, Cian and Eoghan), multi All-Ireland winner, Mick Fitzsimons; throw-in Dublins Peadar Ó Cofaigh, Charlie McMurrow, well that says it all.

Sarsfields last played in the semi-final back in 2021 when John Courtney’s side lost to Na Fianna, a side that included Kieran McGeeney and Dessie Farrell. The Dublin side however had initially won well in Parnell Park but having played an extra sub, Sarsfields were awarded a replay back in Newbridge, but missed out in extra time.

Vinny Walsh’s side, a good mix of youth and experience including the Ryan boys (Shea and Daragh), Callum Bolton, Ben McCormack, Con Kavanagh, Barry Coffey; add in a host of up and coming stars, including Ben Loakman who played U23 last Saturday after a long lay-off.

Will they have enough to derail Cuala?

Hard to say, but don’t rule out Barry Coffey keeping his side on the right track(s) and booking a place in the semi-final.