Kilcoo begin defence of Ulster crown

Kilcoo begin defence of Ulster crown

9 November 2022

KILCOO begin the defence of their Ulster Football Senior Club Championship crown when they take on Ballybay Pearse Brothers this Sunday.

The Magpies make the trip to Clones for a 1.30pm throw-in to face a Monaghan based side managed by a man close to home.

Ballybay joint manager Jerome Johnston Sr will be no stranger to his team’s opponents this weekend as three of his sons, Jerome Jr, Ryan and Shealan all regularly star for Kilcoo.

“The Ulster Club throws up all sorts of novel pairings now and again,” said Kilcoo joint manager Conleith Gilligan.

“It may seem like a big story to others, but it’s business as usual for us.

“Jerome has been a massive part of our club as far back as the U-10s,” he continued. 

“He’s a Kilcoo man but personalities aside, there is still a game of football to be won.”

Many expected different opposition for the Magpies as Ballybay came up against a heavily fancied Crossmaglen outfit on Saturday night.

The Armagh champions were overwhelming favourites with the bookmakers but a composed and cutthroat second half performance from Ballybay saw them rip up the and set up a clash with the champions.

As expected, Magpies boss Gilligan remains composed but, as always, refuses to underestimate the opposition.

“I was very surprised at all the underdog talk regarding Ballybay,” he said.

“I don’t think anyone that watched their county final would have underestimated them and we certainly won’t be. 

“Especially when they have the likes of the evergreen Paul Finlay within their ranks.”

Finlay was instrumental for his side, putting on a man of the match performance against Crossmaglen which will no doubt boost the confidence of both himself and his club.

Meanwhile Kilcoo will step back onto the pitch for competitive action for the first time in a month since defeating Warrenpoint by a one-point margin in the Down county final.

“We’ve been out of action longer than we wanted,” said Gilligan. 

“But listen, we are ready. 

“We’ve a few niggles here and there but nothing to keep the players out of action so we should have a full squad to bring to Clones.”

Due to Ballybay defeating Crossmaglen, the Monaghan team have been awarded the home advantage.

Yet again, this is simply another hurdle Gilligan remains unfazed with.

“It’s probably more difficult logistically, but that’s part of the Ulster magic,” he said. 

“Clones hosts a great pitch and playing surface. 

“It will be a great venue for the travelling Kilcoo support and all we can do is our best and hope that is enough to come away with the win.”