It’s a massive weekend for local soccer as Kilkenny and Carlow clubs gear up for action in the LFA Junior Cup. While both county champions are set for tough encounters in the LFA Senior Cup, with Kilkenny’s Evergreen and Carlow’s Crettyard facing strong opposition as the prestigious tournament begins.
Evergreen will be put to the test as they take on North End, a formidable side from Wexford. Meanwhile, Crettyard will face Dublin-based Trinity Donaghmede in what promises to be a thrilling matchup.
Ahead of Crettyard’s clash, KCLR’s Carlow Soccer Podcast host Harry Shorthose caught up with Crettyard manager Cristoir Maher to get his thoughts on the big game.
Speaking about the significance of the match, Maher said:
“Look, it’s a big game, Leinster Senior Cup. It’s nice to be playing these bigger teams. The boys will be excited for it. These are the games you want to play, and it gives you great potential to go forward in the tournament, and can get you ready for the start of the season. It’s such a big game, so early in the year, it will do the boys the world of good. There is no reason to fear any team. They’re Leinster Senior League division champions. They’re obviously going to be strong, but at the end of the day, they’re a junior team like us. There’s no reason to fear anyone.”
With both Kilkenny and Carlow teams facing stern tests, this weekend could set the tone for the season ahead. Fans of local soccer are in for a treat as the LFA Junior & Senior Cup kicks off, with hopes high for a strong showing from both counties’ teams.