Tag Archive for: Senior Rounders

Club Focus: How Galway City Rapparees Built a Club from the Ground Up

Club Focus: Galway City Rapparees’ Five-Year Surge to Five Semi-Finals

Rounders thrives on feel-good stories, inspiring anecdotes and tales of rapid growth, but the trajectory of Galway City Rapparees over the past five years stands out as one of the most remarkable developments in recent seasons.

From initial conversations in late 2021 about transitioning from softball to fielding teams in five All-Ireland semi-finals in August 2026, the club’s progress reflects strategic vision, community spirit and immense work behind the scenes.

Founded by Joe Naughton, Eoin Wood, Gavin Mulhall and Tomás Kenny, Galway City Rapparees has expanded from an initial roster of 14 players to more than 50 registered members.

Since entering a single Men’s team at the 2021 Junior Day, the club has grown to field five teams across Junior, Intermediate and Senior grades in Men’s, Women’s and Mixed competitions, collecting two All-Ireland titles, three All-Stars and numerous regional honours along the way.

Senior & Intermediate Ranks

That debut outing at the 2021 Junior Day – and winning their first title – in Tymon Park laid the foundation for the club’s current Senior Men’s setup, who contest their All-Ireland semi-final in Monaghan on 16 August.

Galway Rapparees Junior day champion's 2021

Galway Rapparees Junior Day Men’s Winners 2021

Core players such as Cathal Creavan, Ryan Dennis, Jay Hall, Tomás Kenny, Pakie Killilea and Rory McGarvey have transitioned from newcomers to established Senior performers.

Strengthened by players like Tomás Callanan, Dave Gannon, Ajay Kumar, Greg Mannion, Vishal Pathare, and Ili Tuimauga, the unit has proved in its debut Senior season that it belongs among the top four Men’s sides in the country.

At Intermediate level, Rapparees field both Women’s and Mixed teams in 2026.

Intermediate Women

The club’s sole dedicated Women’s squad reached the Junior All-Ireland Final in 2024 before earning promotion to Intermediate for 2025. Currently managed by Rory McGarvey, the team navigated a steep learning curve last year before going unbeaten in their 2026 group.

Galway Rapparees women’s team

Galway Rapparees Women’s Team

They now face 2025 Junior champions Inniskeen Grattans in the All-Ireland semi-final on 15 August. The panel features long-standing members Edel Brennan, Cat Carty, Mel Mannion, Clodagh Naughton, Jenna O’Brien, Jessie Pereira, Laura Salvatore and Alex Stewart, alongside softball recruits Hazel Kilduff and Katie Jessop.

Intermediate Mixed

Drawing players from both higher-grade panels, the Mixed side also enters the knockout stages unbeaten. They meet Dublin Metropolitans in their All-Ireland semi-final on 15 August, looking to build on an impressive group campaign where they overcame some tough teams earlier in the season.

Intermediate mixed team

Galway Rapparees Intermediate Mixed Team

Hosting

All six GAA Rounders All-Ireland Intermediate semi-finals will be hosted by Galway City Rapparees at Coláiste Muire Máthair in Galway City – the second consecutive year All-Ireland knockout fixtures have been staged in the city following a successful Junior hosting in 2025.

GAA Rounders is very grateful to the Board of Galway City Rapparees for allowing us to use their venue and for their assistance and hospitality on the day.

Junior Campaign

Rapparees also hold two spots in the Junior grade knockout stages on Sunday, 9 August, in Edenderry.

Junior Men

Top of their group with an impressive run rate, captain and pitcher Séamus Keegan leads an unbeaten side into their All-Ireland semi-final against Wexford’s Gusserane. The squad has shown tremendous consistency throughout the campaign and will be aiming to continue that form on Sunday.

Junior Mixed

Drawing from across the club’s growing panel depth, the Junior Mixed team secured their semi-final place with a convincing quarter-final victory over Emo. Captained by Eimear Cuddy, they now face a formidable Inniskeen Grattans side, with pitcher/back catcher pairing Séamus Keegan and Sorcha Dowd hoping to reproduce their excellent quarter-final performance.

Rapparees Junior mixed team

Rapparees Junior mixed team

Beyond the Pitch

The club’s growth on the scoreboard has been matched by its success away from the playing field. Over the past 12 months, Rapparees players have earned selections for Connacht Interprovincial squads, five Senior Men represented GAA Rounders at the World Games in Waterford, with Tomás Kenny serving as Vice-Captain of one of the Mixed teams, while the club was also named the 2025 Connacht Club of the Year alongside Ili Tuimauga‘s Intermediate Men’s All-Star award.

Tomas Kenny, Ili Tuimauga & Ryan Dennis at the World GAA Games in Waterford

Tomas Kenny, Ili Tuimauga & Ryan Dennis at the World GAA Games in Waterford

Galway City Rapparees has also placed a strong emphasis on promoting the game within the local community. Through its standalone club website, regular appearances on Galway Bay FM, coverage in the Galway Advertiser and Connacht Tribune, and an active presence across social media, the club has consistently raised the profile of rounders while attracting new members from a wide variety of backgrounds. That commitment to promotion and community engagement has played a significant role in the club’s remarkable growth over the past five years.

Rapparees is also one of the Association’s most diverse clubs, with players from Samoa, New Zealand, India, Canada, Italy, the United States, the United Kingdom and Ireland. That international experience has enriched the club’s playing style while creating a welcoming environment that reflects the modern face of GAA Rounders.

Members also contribute significantly away from the field, serving across Ard Chomhairle, Coiste na nÓg and the National Referees Panel, helping to develop and strengthen the game nationally as well as locally.

Club Chairperson Tomás Kenny believes the club’s success has been built on putting people first

“The key to our success lies in the fact that we prioritise the club as a community over success on the field. By making the Rapparees an enjoyable and rewarding place to be, we’ve ensured that numbers keep going up, which in turn has transitioned into better teams. We’ve also learned so much each year from playing other fantastic teams, which in turn has allowed us to play and coach our teams better year on year.”

Club Secretary Joe Naughton says the club’s success is built on the countless volunteer hours that most people never see

“Running five teams is a huge undertaking. Match days require huge organisation and planning while, behind the scenes there’s training to organise, fixtures to plan and a club of over 50 members to look after. 

When you step back and look at what this club has achieved, though, it’s hard not to feel incredibly proud. Reaching five All-Ireland semi-finals is a remarkable achievement and a credit to every player, coach, volunteer and supporter who has played their part. It’s already been an amazing season, and if we can bring home another All-Ireland title, it would simply be the icing on the cake.”

A Club Built for the Future

As the 2026 Championship reaches its penultimate stages on 9, 15 and 16 August, Galway City Rapparees have firmly established themselves as an integral part of the GAA Rounders community. In just five years, they have grown from a small group of former softball players into a thriving community club competing across five teams at Junior, Intermediate and Senior level.

Whatever the outcome over the coming weeks, the club’s remarkable rise has already left a lasting mark on GAA Rounders. Judging by the progress made since 2021, the next chapter in the Rapparees story promises to be every bit as exciting as the first.

Games 5th July: GAA Rounders Championship Preview

July already! We’re into our fourth month of Rounders Championship fixtures for 2026 and this is Week 11 of our season

18 matches will take place this Sunday in six counties across three provinces and many of them promise to be crackers with quarter-final and semi-final places still up for grabs. Predictions have never been easy but this week, for some games, they’re almost impossible! Let’s preview the action nationwide.

Over half of Sunday’s action will take place in Ulster with six games in Monaghan and four in Cavan – with Senior, Intermediate and Junior teams all taking part.

Kicking off the day’s action at 10.30am, the Senior Women of The Heath will travel north to Mullahoran to take on Erne Eagles.

This is Eagles’ final league match while The Heath still have three more games after Sunday. Eagles have had a mixed season with two wins, two losses and two draws but The Heath are still after their first win of the year. With the top four teams in the group making it to semi-finals on 16 August, there’s still all to play for.

Next up in Mullahoran will be Erne Eagles’ Intermediate Mixed team who will take on another Cavan team – St. Clare’s. This will be St. Clare’s final league game and a win will leave them on the top of the table with 18 points. A win in this game, and in their final game against Galway Rapparees in August, will also give Eagles 18 points to top the table. Favourites Galway Rapparees have only played once this year so it’s difficult yet to predict who will qualify from this group.

The Intermediate Mixed game over, St. Clare’s men will be straight back onto the pitch to play Roscommon’s Kilmore, newly promoted to Intermediate in 2026 and proving they deserve their place in the higher grade with some excellent performances all year against more established teams. This is their final league game and they’ll be hoping to make it count. St. Clare’s will be looking to get to semi-finals and go one step further this year and make it to the final.

The final match of a long, brilliant day of Rounders in Mullahoran will be the Junior Women’s clash between Kilmore and Nobber. Kilmore have taken no prisoners all year and are well established on the top of the table. For a brand-new side in their first year in the Championship, Nobber have proved that hard work, determination, good leadership and a positive attitude can move mountains. Currently lying fourth in the table, we honestly expect them to give Kilmore a great game and make them work for their win!

Predictions: Senior Women – Erne Eagles; Intermediate Mixed – St. Clare’s; Intermediate Men – honestly can’t predict this one, on the day either team could just inch this…but possibly the experience of St. Clare’s should just push them through; Junior Women – Kilmore

Referee: National Secretary Shirley Lennon is setting up camp in Mullahoran for the day!

In the next county, Carrickmacross will have two Rounders venues on the go all day. Senior action will take place in Platinum Tanks Park when Carlow side Cúchulainn travel north to play three games in Monaghan.

At 12pm both sides’ Men’s teams will start the day’s proceedings. With both teams having played four times this season, only one point separates them and a win for Cúchulainn would see them edging up into the top half of the table. Fresh from a comprehensive defeat of Glynn Barntown three weeks ago, confidence should be high for the Carlow men.

Next up will be the Mixed teams. Cúchulainn have yet to win a Mixed game this year while Carrickmacross, after a slow start, have been building momentum. With no other Senior Mixed games taking place this weekend, a win for Carrickmacross would have them sitting nicely on the top half of the table, with only one game left to play before semi-finals.

The day will close with the Women’s teams. Again, just one point separates them on the table with four games played each. Carrickmacross will be hoping that home advantage will give them the edge and that a win will move them to within a point of Limekiln and fourth in the table with a shot at semi-finals in August.

Predictions: Men & Mixed – Carrickmacross Emmets; Women – Cúchulainn

Referee: GAA Rounders Vice President Michael Dowling will take charge of all three games.

Around the corner in the grounds of Inver College, three exciting Junior matches will take place from 11am.

Hosts Carrickmacross Emmets will take on their near neighbours Inniskeen Grattans and Belfast side Wolfe Tones in what will be all three clubs’ final league matches in Junior Mixed Group B. The results of these games will give a fairly clear picture of who will be moving on to quarter-finals on 25 July. With Kilmore likely to top the group, Carrickmacross will want to win both games to be secure of one of the three places on offer. If Carrick lose to Wolfe Tones but beat Inniskeen, we could have three teams on 26 points, so it will come down to run rate to decide who will qualify – exciting times ahead in Inver College on Sunday!

Later in the afternoon, the Junior Women of Drumhowan and Skryne will play at 3pm. This will be Skryne’s last game of the league and Drumhowan’s penultimate outing. Kilmore have already secured top spot in the group thanks to their head-to-head victory over Skryne, so first place is settled. However, there is still plenty to play for with Skryne and Carrickmacross battling for second place. A Skryne win would strengthen their position, while a Drumhowan victory would make the final standings even more interesting. Another exciting Sunday evening is in store!

Predictions: Inniskeen Grattans, Carrickmacross Emmets and Skryne

Referee: Limekiln’s Amanda Hoxha will take charge of all three games.

More Senior games take place in Athlone from 1pm when on-a-roll Breaffy take on Raheen in both Men’s and Women’s. With the form that Breaffy have been showing all year, it’s hard to believe that anyone will give them much trouble and they’re likely to continue their winning ways on Sunday. For anyone spectating, it would be great to see Raheen giving them two great matches and making those wins just a bit harder to achieve!

Predictions: Breaffy to win both

Referee: Michael Glavey’s Seán Bailey will take charge in Athlone.

From Athlone we move west to Galway where Galway City Rapparees will take on Roscommon and Mayo in Junior Men and Mixed.

At 1pm Elphin’s Men will challenge the Rapparees, who remain unbeaten this year and have already secured top spot in the group thanks to their head-to-head victory over Na Piarsaigh. That result has already booked their place in the semi-finals, so Sunday’s game is all about maintaining their unbeaten record. With several squad players expected to feature, Rapparees will still be confident of finishing the league campaign with another win, but Elphin may feel this is a game they can take. It should be a very entertaining match.

Following this, at 3pm, Garrymore take on Rapparees’ Mixed team. Again, Rapparees are unbeaten this year and, unless all the stars majorly unalign this weekend, they look set to top the group and progress to the quarter-finals as winners of Junior Mixed Group A. Garrymore, meanwhile, need to win by a good few runs to move ahead on run rate and keep their hopes of qualification alive, adding another layer of intrigue to what should be an excellent contest.

Predictions: Galway City Rapparees to win both

Referee: Galway City Rapparees’ Jay Hall will take charge in Galway.

Finally, back to Leinster for four Junior matches in Carlow and Laois. In Myshall, the home side will take on Leighlinbridge in Mixed and Wexford team Gusserane in Men and Women.

The Men’s clash should be one of the games of the day with both sides well matched. Gusserane are unbeaten and Myshall only narrowly lost to Carrickmacross. With this being the penultimate game for both teams, the winner here will be well placed to qualify from the group to semi-finals next month.

Gusserane’s Women started the year strong but have struggled with injury and player availability. Myshall have only lost to table toppers Leighlinbridge and look strong to finish in second place.

Finally, those Leighlinbridge table toppers who are also flying high in the Mixed group will take on the hosts and this should be another cracking game. This is Leighlinbridge’s final game while Myshall still have to play Emo and while two wins for them will see them top the group, less than that will see run rate coming into play if Emo and Naomh Pól win their remaining games.

Predictions: Mixed – Myshall; Men – Gusserane; Women – Myshall

Referee: Our Myshall Referee will be Glynn Barntown’s Sarah McGuinness

And last, but certainly not least, will be the clash between Emo and Oulart The Ballagh at 11am in Emo. Only having lost to Myshall and Leighlinbridge, Emo’s newly formed Junior Mixed team are playing really well this year. For a new team in this year’s Championship, Oulart The Ballagh have also done themselves very proud with good displays against more established teams.

Prediction: Emo

That’s some line-up of impressive and must-win games for a summer Sunday and we’d be encouraging anyone in the vicinity of any of those venues to head out and watch some games and support our players. By Sunday evening, some of our quarter and semi-finalists will be revealed and we can start looking forward to knockout games and analysing who’ll be playing who.

Finally, just a reminder: GAA Rounders has always prided itself on being a welcoming, family-friendly sport built on respect, and we’d like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the following:

  • Respect Referees: Match officials are essential to our game and deserve to be treated with courtesy and respect at all times. Their decisions must be accepted without abuse or intimidation.
  • Respect your Opponents: Personal insults, foul language, threatening behaviour or attempts to provoke players or mentors have no place in GAA Rounders.
  • Lead by Example: Managers, coaches and team officials set the standard for their players and supporters and are expected to ensure their sidelines remain respectful throughout every match.
  • Know the consequences: Abusive or intimidating behaviour towards referees, players or officials is unacceptable and will be dealt with under the GAA Rounders Constitution. Clubs are asked to ensure that everyone representing them understands this.

Let’s all work together to ensure that the remainder of the 2026 season is remembered for the quality of the competition and the respect shown by everyone involved.

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GAA Rounders Preview: Full Fixtures and Predictions for 31 May 2026

Preview – 31 May 2026

It’s the June Bank Holiday Weekend and, while the rest of the country’s thoughts are turning to barbeques and an extra day off work, true Rounders fans are planning how many matches we can take in and what’s the quickest way to get from Athlone GAA to Clann na nGael and back again to catch as much of the action as possible in the seven games taking place between both venues on Sunday afternoon.

With multiple matches in Monaghan and Carlow, and one each in Mayo and Wexford, there’s no excuse not to be on your nearest pitch watching Bank Holiday Rounders this weekend.

Before we dive in, just a reminder that our U14 Mixed All-Ireland Competition will take place in Clann na nGael, Athlone, on Saturday, 30 May, from 10am, with the promise of some excellent Rounders from the stars of the future.

Clubs from Ulster, Connacht and Leinster will be vying for the title of U14 Champion – will Cavan’s Erne Eagles retain their title, or will the cup be going home with underage superstars Emo, newly formed Galway club Clontuskert, Roscommon contenders Elphin, or recent U14 Girls’ All-Ireland title winners Cúchulainn of Carlow?

Midlands Medley

With two pitches – one each for Senior and Intermediate games – on the go in Athlone GAA for the day, it will be a busy afternoon.

Starting proceedings at 12pm will be last year’s Intermediate Mixed winners, Erne Eagles, taking on newly promoted Intermediate side and last year’s Junior Mixed winners, St. Senan’s.

With rumours that Darryl Dolan was hoping to play Intermediate this year firmly quashed after his substitution onto the Senior team last weekend, we’ll have to wait until Sunday to see who lines out for the Cavan side.

While St. Senan’s were powerfully impressive at Junior last year, will they find the jump to playing what should now be a Senior-standard side a step too far?

Prediction: Erne Eagles

Our second Intermediate match will feature St. Senan’s Men, this time taking on Roscommon side Kilmore, also in their first year at Intermediate.

Kilmore have performed strongly so far this year. Having beaten Dublin Metropolitans on opening weekend and narrowly losing 14-10 to last year’s Intermediate Men’s finalists, Emo, their move to Intermediate is going well.

St. Senan’s have also played twice this season – losing to Dublin Mets and beating St. Clare’s – and both sides will be keen to make their way into top position on the league table heading into June.

Prediction: Kilmore

Athlone’s Intermediate games will be refereed by Myshall’s PJ Lalor.

Also in Athlone, two Senior games – both involving Cavan’s Erne Eagles and Wexford’s Raheen – will take place from 1.30pm.

First up will be both sides’ Senior Men. Raheen played last Sunday and lost to Cúchulainn, while Erne Eagles also played last Sunday and beat reigning All-Ireland Champions Carrickmacross Emmets – no prizes for guessing who will go into the game more confident.

Prediction – Erne Eagles

Final game in Athlone, at 3pm, will be the two Senior teams’ Women. Raheen will be bruised following a comprehensive defeat to Cúchulainn, while Eagles, who also lost to Carrickmacross’ Women last weekend, will be keen to get back to winning ways and take the victory.

Prediction – Erne Eagles

Our Senior Referee in Athlone GAA will be Galway City Rapparees’ Craig Davis.

Still in Athlone, but moving from Co. Westmeath to Co. Roscommon, Clann na nGael will host three more Senior games, this time between Breaffy and Glynn Barntown.

Starting at 12.30pm with a replay of the 2025 Senior Women’s final, followed at 2pm by the Senior Mixed clash and ending the day at 3.30pm when the men of both clubs square up on the pitch.

So far this season, in all three grades, Breaffy are the team to beat, and Glynn Barntown will need to be at their best to upset the Mayo side in their quest to continue to top the groups and make three All-Ireland finals.

Prediction – Breaffy to win all three

Refereeing in Clann na nGael will be The Heath’s Danielle Keane.

Junior Games

Starting at 11am in Leighlinbridge is the first of three Junior matches being hosted by the Carlow club. To start, they will take on Emo. With neither side yet suffering a defeat in a Junior Mixed match in 2026, nobody will want to lose that perfect record.

Prediction – Emo

At 1pm, Leighlinbridge’s Women will take on Wexford side Castletown Liam Mellows.

As a newly formed team this year, Castletown are finding their feet and will be hoping this is the day they manage to get their first win. Leighlinbridge, who beat Kilanerin Ballyfad by 29 runs in their opening Women’s game, are aiming to make sure that doesn’t happen.

Prediction – Leighlinbridge

Finally in Leighlinbridge on Sunday, the hosts can take a break and watch Naomh Pól take on Oulart The Ballagh in a Junior Mixed game between two “new to the Championship” sides.

This is both teams’ third fixture of the season, but Oulart are ahead on points having received a walkover in their first game.

Oulart performed well on Junior Day, reaching a Shield Final, but Naomh Pól also showed great promise in the Munster Winter League. This should be an exciting game between two well-matched teams.

Prediction – Oulart The Ballagh

Our Leighlinbridge Referee for the day will be Glynn Barntown’s Sarah McGuinness.

Staying in the South East, Gusserane and Na Gaeil Nua’s Junior Men’s teams both start their Championship campaigns when they travel to Castletown Liam Mellows to play at 12pm.

At Junior Day, Gusserane’s Men’s team came away with the Cup, while Na Gaeil Nua, a brand-new team formed this year, played Mixed and showed that they have great potential.

Prediction – Gusserane

Cathy Kearns of Glynn Barntown will be in charge for this game.

Much further north, in Carrickmacross, three more exciting Junior games will take place in Platinum Tanks Park, starting at 11am when the hosts take on Slaughtneil.

After a few years away from Championship action, the Derry side have returned this year and played their first match last Sunday in Inniskeen. Although they lost, the experience gained will stand to them against this Carrick side, who will be keen to put their opening defeat by Kilmore behind them and get some winning points on the scoreboard.

Prediction – Carrickmacross Emmets

Next up, at 1pm, the hosts will welcome Elphin for another Junior Mixed game.

Elphin have played twice this season and lost both games – to Inniskeen and Kilmore – and will want to ensure they break the cycle. Will Carrick’s second game of the day mean they’re finely tuned and ready to win, or will Elphin’s fresh legs give them the advantage?

Prediction – Carrickmacross Emmets

The final Junior Mixed game in Monaghan on Sunday will be between Elphin and Antrim side Wolfe Tones.

For the second week in a row, Wolfe Tones will be making the journey to Monaghan, but will their narrow defeat to Inniskeen last Sunday have them ready to take it up a notch this week and win? Or will Elphin, with their Intermediate Women players, have the edge in their second match of the day?

Prediction – Elphin

Refereeing all three matches in Carrickmacross will be National Secretary Shirley Lennon.

Not far away, in Inniskeen, there will be another Junior Mixed game at 11am when Inniskeen Grattans once again welcome a Derry team, Naomh Trea, in Junior Mixed.

While Inniskeen have three wins already under their belt this season, Naomh Trea have yet to play a competitive match.

Prediction – Inniskeen Grattans

Longford’s Clonguish will take to the pitch at 1pm to play Inniskeen’s Junior Women.

Clonguish lost to Skryne midweek in their first game of the season and will be aiming to reverse the result for this match. Inniskeen’s Junior Women are a newly formed side with lots of potential and, if they can get their fielding in order, this could be an interesting game.

Prediction – Inniskeen Grattans

Local legend, Carrickmacross Emmets’ Colm Birdy, will referee this match.

Our final venue for the day will be our most westerly when Athenry travel to Garrymore in Mayo to play a Junior Mixed game.

This will be Garrymore’s first time to play this season, while Athenry lost narrowly to Galway City Rapparees in their first outing.

Prediction – Garrymore

Galway City Rapparees’ Jay Hall will be in charge of this match.

With all except one of last week’s predictions correct – and the very surprising revelation that people actually read these articles! – the pressure is on to see if all 16 of this week’s winners will have been revealed in advance!

You know what you have to do to prove us wrong!! Final scores will be on our website and socials on Sunday evening.

Enjoy the long weekend and go out and support our players if you can.

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GAA Rounders Preview: Week 5 Fixtures, Predictions and Senior Showdowns

 

Preview – Sunday 17 May 2026

16 matches across Ireland this weekend

How is it Week 5 of the Championship already? The weeks are flying past and already the league tables are starting to indicate who the front runners for titles might be — and who needs to do a bit of work if they want to be in contention.

With one match on Thursday and 16 matches taking place on Sunday, from Limerick and Waterford to Monaghan and many places in between, let’s take a closer look at who will be playing and who we expect to go home on Sunday with a smile on their faces.

Junior Mixed Action in Athenry on Thursday

It’s always great to kick off a weekend of Championship action with a local derby and Thursday evening’s Junior Mixed clash between Athenry and Galway City Rapparees should provide plenty of entertainment.

Athenry’s move into Junior Mixed adds an interesting dynamic to the competition and they will be expecting to make a strong impression. Galway City Rapparees, meanwhile, will feature several new faces, with a number of players having stepped up to the club’s Intermediate Mixed panel.

With both sides capable of putting up big scores, this could turn into an entertaining and high-scoring contest, but Athenry may just have enough experience coming down from Intermediate level to edge it.

Prediction – Athenry.

Gretta Davis will referee the game.

Senior Action in the Midlands

Six Senior clubs will be headed for the centre of the country, with matches taking place in Athlone and Portlaoise from 11.30am.

In The Heath, Carrickmacross Emmets will set up camp and start their day with a Senior Women’s clash with their hosts. Both teams are newly promoted from Intermediate in 2025 and The Heath will be keen to repeat their win in last year’s All-Ireland final, while Carrickmacross will be aiming to stop them doing just that.

Prediction – The Heath; a full-strength home side should just clinch it.

Carrickmacross’ Mixed team is up next and will take on Mayo side Kilmeena at 1pm. Kilmeena have struggled in their two opening games this season, having been defeated by Limekiln and Breaffy, but they’ll be hoping to turn that around and repeat last year’s win over the same opponents. Carrickmacross have also suffered a loss in the opening round of the 2026 season, so the winner on Sunday will be chalking up their first victory of the season.

Prediction – Carrickmacross Emmets; Ulster Final day will give the Monaghan side the added spur to take the win.

The final match of the day in The Heath is the hotly anticipated Men’s clash between reigning Senior Champions Carrickmacross Emmets and rising stars and newly promoted Galway City Rapparees. With one win and one narrow defeat behind them, the Galway men are settling nicely into Senior and look very comfortable in the grade. Carrick’s first outing of 2026 resulted in defeat to Breaffy and they’ll be keen to turn that around and move their way up the league table.

This has the makings of the match of the day and will definitely be recommended viewing for anyone in Portlaoise at 2:30pm on Sunday.

Prediction – Carrickmacross Emmets; the Ulster men’s experience should just give them the edge.

Emo’s Michael Slevin will referee all three games.

An hour up the road in Athlone GAA, two more giants of Senior Rounders will face off in Women’s, Mixed and Men’s games when Mayo’s Breaffy take on Dublin side Limekiln.

Breaffy have been clinical so far this season and have easily brushed aside Carlow side Cúchulainn and Monaghan’s Carrickmacross Emmets, but Limekiln will come ready for battle and won’t be easily intimidated or defeated.

Breaffy’s Women’s team has been a force to be reckoned with for several years now, but will this be the year that they meet their match with the strengthened Limekiln 2026 crew? We should know by lunchtime on Sunday.

Predictions: Senior Women – Limekiln; Senior Men & Mixed – Breaffy.

Philip Keane will be the man in charge for all three matches in Athlone.

Intermediate Women’s Action

Two Intermediate Women’s matches are also up for decision on Sunday in Laois and Roscommon.

In Group A, table toppers Castletown Liam Mellows will be hosted by Emo, who will be hoping that home advantage will give them their first win of the season. Having defeated Inniskeen Grattans and Dublin Metropolitans, the Wexford women will be confident of making it three from three on Sunday and, if Sarah Kavanagh on 2nd Base, Pitcher Mandy Callanan and Catcher Sandra Nugent are on form, it would be hard to predict otherwise.

Glynn Barntown’s Mary Roche will referee in Emo.

Prediction: Castletown Liam Mellows.

The second Intermediate Women’s match of the day will be between local rivals Michael Glavey’s and Elphin. Glavey’s have yet to get their 2026 campaign started and Elphin will be smarting from their 28-6 defeat by a clinical Galway Rapparees two weeks ago, so it’s all to play for.

Elphin’s impressive performances in the 2025 Junior Championship saw them promoted, but is the step up to Intermediate proving too challenging? Have Glavey’s managed to replace their pitcher, Gretta Davis, who has moved to Elphin and will line out on Sunday against her former club?

Prediction: Elphin.

Second up in Michael Glavey’s is a Junior Men Group A game between Elphin and Galway City Rapparees. Elphin haven’t played Junior Men yet this year while Rapparees impressed with a 43-5 annihilation of Sporting Limerick in their first game.

With Home Runs from players on both teams last Sunday, we should hopefully be in for a game of big hitting and great catches.

Prediction: Galway City Rapparees.

GAA Rounders Vice-President Michael Dowling will referee both matches in Roscommon.

Junior Games Round-Up

With several Junior teams setting out on their 2026 campaigns this weekend, the highlights look likely to be in Monaghan, where hosts Inniskeen Grattans will welcome Roscommon’s Kilmore for both Mixed and Women’s games.

Kilmore’s women’s experience looks likely to see them take this one comfortably, while the Mixed game should be a much closer affair with talent and serious skill on both teams.

Predictions: Junior Women – Kilmore; Junior Mixed – Inniskeen Grattans.

Amanda Hoxha will referee both games.

National Secretary Shirley Lennon will be busy on Sunday, starting her day in Nobber where she will referee the Junior Women’s match between first-time team Nobber and Carrickmacross Emmets.

With a very impressive display against Skryne in their first ever Championship match midweek, Nobber will be confident and excited to play, and this could be tighter than might be expected.

Prediction: Carrickmacross’ experience to just sneak them through.

Next up in Nobber is the turn of the Carrickmacross Junior Men to face Carlow’s Myshall. This pairing in 2025 was a cracker of a game with no quarter given by either side, eventually won by Myshall.

This is both sides’ first game of the season so it’s hard to predict which way it might go.

Prediction: Myshall, fresh from their Mixed victory at Junior Day, to take the win.

Following that match, up the road in Dunsany, Shirley will referee her third match of the day in a Junior Mixed game between two brand-new Championship sides, Dunsany and Oulart The Ballagh.

Both clubs had teams in the recent Junior Day so both have that experience under their belt. Oulart The Ballagh made it to the Shield Final, quite the achievement for a brand-new club, and will hope that experience will stand to them after their long drive to Meath.

Prediction: Oulart The Ballagh.

Two further Junior games will take place in Limerick and Waterford on Sunday morning.

Junior Women’s sides Knockainey and Kildimo Pallaskenry will play a Limerick derby — one of many this season — while in Waterford City, local side Naomh Pól will take on Carlow’s Leighlinbridge, who enjoyed two successes last Sunday in their first foray into the Mixed Championship.

Predictions: Kildimo Pallaskenry and Leighlinbridge.

We’re still building up to our crazy and insanely busy summer Sundays in June and July, but this weekend looks set to provide some great matches, some interesting introductions to the All-Ireland competition and, if the past four weeks are anything to go by, some unexpected results.

Follow along on our website and socials for the latest scores and updates.

Full Match Predictions

  • Senior Women: The Heath v Carrickmacross Emmets — The Heath
  • Senior Mixed: Carrickmacross Emmets v Kilmeena — Carrickmacross Emmets
  • Senior Men: Carrickmacross Emmets v Galway City Rapparees — Carrickmacross Emmets
  • Senior Women: Breaffy v Limekiln — Limekiln
  • Senior Mixed: Breaffy v Limekiln — Breaffy
  • Senior Men: Breaffy v Limekiln — Breaffy
  • Intermediate Women: Emo v Castletown Liam Mellows — Castletown Liam Mellows
  • Intermediate Women: Michael Glavey’s v Elphin — Elphin
  • Junior Men: Elphin v Galway City Rapparees — Galway City Rapparees
  • Junior Women: Inniskeen Grattans v Kilmore — Kilmore
  • Junior Mixed: Inniskeen Grattans v Kilmore — Inniskeen Grattans
  • Junior Women: Nobber v Carrickmacross Emmets — Carrickmacross Emmets
  • Junior Men: Carrickmacross Emmets v Myshall — Myshall
  • Junior Mixed: Dunsany v Oulart The Ballagh — Oulart The Ballagh
  • Junior Women: Knockainey v Kildimo Pallaskenry — Kildimo Pallaskenry
  • Junior Mixed: Naomh Pól v Leighlinbridge — Leighlinbridge

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Limekiln v Galway Rapparees

GAA Rounders Fixtures & Preview: All Games This Sunday (26 April 2026)

Preview – 26 April 2026

Opening weekend threw up a few surprises, but Weekend 2 promises to be an even more thrilling ride with four of our Senior clubs and four Intermediate clubs in action across two locations.

Senior Women, Mixed & Men – Breaffy vs Carrickmacross Emmets

Ballyheane, Castlebar

Action starts at 12:00 PM in Mayo, where three reigning All-Ireland Champion teams face off in what could be the definitive triple-header of the early season.

First up, Breaffy’s Women host Carrickmacross Emmets. Newly promoted following a dominant 2025 Intermediate season, Carrickmacross will have their work cut out facing the four-in-a-row All-Ireland winners, but the Monaghan ladies are never one to shy from a challenge. This tight squad has big hitters and brilliant fielders who are well able to play Rounders at the highest level.

While Breaffy have three current All-Stars in their squad, they are missing 3rd Base star and GAA Rounders President Paula Doherty, who isn’t playing this year. Their pitcher and catcher duo of Michelle Hopkins and Katie Groonell will be hard to beat, but Carrick’s core team has been working together since winning the Junior Women’s title in 2023 and will put up quite the fight.

At 1.30pm it’s the turn of both clubs’ Mixed teams to take to the pitch. Two-in-a-row All-Ireland champions Breaffy will be keen to get their season off to a winning start and, with home advantage, they will aim to get ahead quickly. Carrickmacross will want to start strong and contain the Mayo side by putting their own stamp on the game and not allowing Breaffy to dominate early. With multiple All-Stars and All-Ireland winners on both squads, this has the makings of the match of the day.

The final game of the day in the west is the clash of both sides’ Men’s teams. Breaffy reached the 2025 semi-finals and will be looking to go one better this year by reaching the All-Ireland Final. Carrickmacross are the current champions and will be hoping to retain their crown in 2026. Expect tight pitching, batting and fielding, with no quarter given by either side.

Colm Jordan

Colm Jordan

Stars like outfielder Colm Jordan and short stop Mark Jennings for Breaffy will be well matched against their Carrickmacross counterparts Oran Kiernan, Euan Matthews, Declan Finnegan and Paddy Bermingham. While the result could go either way, the road there will be anything but boring.

Referee: Dublin Metropolitans’ Jack Cheyne will referee all three games.
Predictions: Women – Breaffy; Mixed – Breaffy; Men – Carrickmacross Emmets

Senior Men, Mixed & Women – Limekiln vs Glynn Barntown

Tymon Park

Limekiln Rounders host a massive six-match schedule in Tymon Park, featuring three Senior and three Intermediate games.

In Senior, Limekiln will play Wexford’s Glynn Barntown in all three codes, starting at 1pm with Senior Men. Fresh from their impressive first match of the season last Sunday in Galway, Limekiln will be aiming to keep that momentum going and go one step better with a win over their old rivals. Limekiln’s new signing, Peter Salmon, had an outstanding match against Rapparees and, if he can continue that dominance at 1st Base, and 2025 All-Star Ciarán Weldon can keep up his superb batting record from last Sunday, the Dublin side will be hard to beat.

Eddie Healy with a phenomenal catch - Limekiln instagram

Eddie Healy with a phenomenal catch – Limekiln instagram

However, Glynn Barntown’s men can never be underestimated and, if Paul Cooper and Paul Delaney play at their best, as well as the excellent Garry Jordan at backcatcher having a good day, we could be in for a very exciting match.

Following their comprehensive win over Kilmeena last Sunday, Limekiln’s Mixed team will be full of confidence when they take on Glynn Barntown and, with the Dublin side’s newly boosted squad of transferred players from St. Clare’s, Emo and Kevin’s, they will have to be favourites to win. We can hopefully look forward to seeing some more contenders for Catch of the Year from Eddie Healy, but he will face strong competition from teammates Serena Costello and Colette McCaul, as well as Glynn Barntown’s trademark excellent outfield catches.

Last match of the day on Tymon Park’s Senior pitch is the clash of Limekiln and Glynn Barntown’s Senior Women, and this will be a game worth waiting for. Glynn Barntown were the 2025 finalists and will be determined to go one better this year, while Limekiln are returning to Senior ranks in 2026 and looking to make an immediate impact.

Limekiln’s win over The Heath will give them confidence and the signs are that they are settling quickly at this level. Glynn Barntown, though, have experience at the top grade and will be keen to put last season’s final disappointment behind them. With some of their Intermediate players newly promoted to Senior, the added depth and fresh energy could be a big help as they aim to start the 2026 season on a positive note.

Referee: Emo’s Michael Slevin will be in charge for all three games.
Predictions: Women – Limekiln; Mixed – Limekiln; Men – Limekiln

Intermediate Women & Mixed – Tymon Park

Dublin Metropolitans vs Glynn Barntown; Emo vs Inniskeen

Tymon Park will also host three Intermediate matches on their second pitch, with two Women’s games and a Mixed match all up for decision.

First up is Dublin Metropolitans ladies vs Glynn Barntown’s ladies. Mets will be keen to bounce back from last Sunday’s defeat to Castletown Liam Mellows and will be hoping that shortstop Katie Flynn and Jessica Maddock on 2nd Base will continue their great form from last week, but Glynn Barntown’s Intermediate ladies can never be underestimated and have several years’ experience at this grade which will stand to them.

With no Junior Women’s team this year, Glynn Barntown’s Intermediate squad has been boosted with the introduction of many of last year’s Junior players, and a bigger squad means more competition for places and hungrier players.

The second Intermediate match will be the same teams playing Mixed. With the ladies possibly playing their second match of the day, the pressure will be on the fresh legs of the male players to impress and really show how much they want to start their 2026 campaigns by winning. Newly promoted to Intermediate this year, Dublin Mets will be eager to impress and show that they belong in this grade, but Glynn Barntown will equally be keen to prove their credentials as a long-time Intermediate team.

The final Intermediate match will be back to Women’s and will see Laois’ Emo taking on newly promoted, and 2025 Junior Women’s champions, Inniskeen of Monaghan. Emo struggled in Intermediate last year, their first year in the grade following their Junior All-Ireland win in 2024, but have they managed to get it together for a more successful season this year? Will Inniskeen suffer a similar fate in 2026, with the jump from Junior to Intermediate being a difficult one to navigate?

Pitching from Emo’s Claire Suda and Inniskeen’s Julianne Smith will be key, while Inniskeen’s skilled fielders like Carol McKeown and Layla McArdle will really need to shine if they are to stop Emo from dominating at bat.

Referee: Myshall’s PJ Lalor will take charge of all three Intermediate matches.
Predictions: Intermediate Women – Glynn Barntown and Inniskeen; Intermediate Mixed – Dublin Metropolitans

With nine exciting pairings on Sunday to keep spectators and competitors interested and engaged, we look forward to seeing how our reigning All-Ireland champions and contenders fare. If you can’t be in Castlebar or Tymon Park, keep a close eye on our socials and website for the latest scores and winners.

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Aidan Carr - Kilmore

GAA Rounders Preview 19 April 2026: Senior and Intermediate Championship Opener

GAA Rounders Championship Preview

GAA Rounders Preview: 19 April 2026

The wait is nearly over as the 2026 All-Ireland Championship season gets underway with Senior and Intermediate action across Ballon, Galway, Wexford and Kilmore

The date we have all been waiting for is nearly here and the familiar question of “what will we do on Sunday?” won’t be an issue for the next 22 weeks, because the GAA Rounders All-Ireland Championship season is back!

Last season, the Friday Preview & Predictions article became a weekly talking point, so it returns for 2026. There is a new writer this year, remaining anonymous for what can only be described as “personal safety” reasons, along with a slightly different style of analysis and fewer statistics. The goal, however, remains exactly the same: to start conversations, spark debate and, ideally, give readers every chance to prove the previewer wrong.

Senior Championship Preview

Ballon and Galway host the opening Senior fixtures of the 2026 season, with heavyweight clashes, returning stars and one major milestone for Galway City Rapparees

Ballon hosts a blockbuster opening day

This Sunday, 19 April, the honour of pitching the first ball of the 2026 Senior season will go to either Irene Scanlon of Cavan’s Erne Eagles or Cúchulainn of Carlow’s as yet unrevealed pitcher when their women’s championship clash gets underway in Ballon at 12pm.

Both clubs reached the semi-finals of the 2025 Championship, so there is plenty on the line from the outset. With multiple All-Star winners and nominees from 2025 and previous seasons taking to the pitch for both teams, this promises to be an excellent curtain-raiser. The blend of youth and experience across both squads should produce skilful batting, composed fielding and no shortage of big moments.

At 1.30pm, the focus shifts to the Senior Mixed contest. As 2025 All-Ireland runners-up, Erne Eagles will be determined to show that they remain genuine title contenders in 2026. Cúchulainn, meanwhile, will be equally eager to prove that they can go one step further this year and reach the final themselves. Erne Eagles’ Senior Mixed panel has already thrown up a few surprises, so there will be keen interest in the side that eventually takes the field.

The final game in Ballon at 3pm sees the Men’s teams go head to head. Erne Eagles were also Men’s All-Ireland runners-up in 2025 and recent form suggests they may start as favourites, but underestimating the Carlow side on home soil would be a mistake. Rumour has it that Darryl Dolan is ready to return following his 2025 injury, which would be a significant boost for the visitors. With experienced figures on both sides, including Ard Chomhairle member and Cúchulainn pitcher Peadar Waters, this one has all the ingredients of a tense and closely fought battle.

Referee: Emo stalwart Michael Slevin will take charge of all three games.

Ballon Predictions

Women: Cúchulainn
Mixed: Erne Eagles
Men: Erne Eagles

Galway City Rapparees step into the big time

Ryan Dennis - Galway Rapparees

Ryan Dennis – Galway Rapparees

There is early action in Galway too, with two Senior fixtures down for decision on the grounds of Coláiste Muire Máthair from 1pm. Dublin legends Limekiln travel west to face Mayo’s Kilmeena in Senior Mixed before taking on the newly promoted Galway City Rapparees in Senior Men.

After a difficult 2025 campaign, Limekiln have regrouped, brought in transferred players and assembled a bigger squad. They now look ready to remind everyone why they have been Rounders royalty for more than 20 years. Kilmeena, meanwhile, finished last season strongly after a slow start in Senior Mixed, so they will be determined to hit the ground running this time around.

This looks like a game that could be quick, sharp and highly competitive. Both pitchers will be desperate to give away as little as possible. Limekiln’s outfield will want to stay watertight, while Kilmeena will be eager to contain multi-position stars such as Ciarán Weldon both at bat and in the field. There may also be a few familiar faces in unfamiliar colours, with some players last seen in Kevin’s blue and white now sporting Limekiln jerseys.

At 2.45pm, Galway City Rapparees enter uncharted territory as they play their first ever Senior match. For a club whose men’s team won the Junior Day Blitz in 2021, this has been a remarkable rise. Sunday’s fixture already feels like a milestone moment and it has the makings of a hugely entertaining Senior debut.

Pitching should be fascinating, with the contrasting styles of Ryan Dennis and Chris Hughes presenting very different challenges for batters. Galway have runners and hitters capable of hurting any side and there will be plenty wondering whether Cathal Creaven might produce his first Senior home run. Limekiln’s challenge will be to shut down that running threat, while the Rapparees must stay calm and avoid being overawed by a side with an extraordinary haul of titles and All-Stars across the past two decades.

Referee: Seán Bailey of Michael Glavey’s will be behind the catcher for both Galway fixtures.

Galway Predictions

Mixed: Limekiln
Men: Galway City Rapparees

Intermediate Championship Preview

The Intermediate campaign also begins on Sunday, with Dublin Metropolitans on the road in both Men’s and Women’s action

Kilmore ready for Intermediate test

Aidan Carr - Kilmore

Aidan Carr – Kilmore

The Intermediate Championship begins with an early start on the road for Dublin Metropolitans, whose men travel to Roscommon to face local favourites Kilmore, last year’s Junior Men’s All-Ireland runners-up.

With a full year of Intermediate experience behind them, Dublin Mets may look like favourites on paper. Even so, Kilmore should not be underestimated. Both teams bring quality players into this opener. The Mets can call on the Carley brothers, Jack Cheyne and Leonard Looney, all selected for the Leinster Interprovincials side. Kilmore, meanwhile, are represented by Aidan Carr, Breian Carroll, Mark Harrington and James Jamieson, who fill four of the five Junior spots on the Connacht Interprovincial panel.

Nerves are inevitable for Kilmore in their first Intermediate game following promotion, but home advantage should help settle them. With first pitch at 11am, this has the feel of one of the most interesting games of the opening weekend.

Referee: Breaffy star and Ard Chomhairle Development Officer Mark Jennings

Prediction: Kilmore to settle early and take the win

Castletown Liam Mellows host key Women’s opener

Also throwing in at 1pm is the first Intermediate Women’s game of 2026, as Dublin Metropolitans head to the picturesque Castletown Liam Mellows pitch in Wexford to face the 2023 All-Ireland Junior Ladies finalists.

Both teams are newly promoted to Intermediate and both will be eager to make an immediate statement in their new grade. With talented and capable players on each side, this could be one of the tightest contests of the weekend and may come down to who handles the occasion best.

Referee: GAA Rounders Leinster Representative, PJ Lalor of Myshall

Prediction: Dublin Mets to just edge it

A season worth following begins again

Although soggy pitches and poor weather have threatened to derail the opening week of Championship action, the seven matches that are set to go ahead should still provide more than enough excitement and drama to whet the appetite for what promises to be another thrilling GAA Rounders season.

If you are near Ballon, Castletown, Galway or Kilmore, this is a weekend well worth supporting in person. For those who cannot make it, results will be uploaded to the website and social media channels as soon as they come in.

As always, thanks go to the players, coaches, managers and club secretaries who keep the show on the road and make sure these matches take place. Thanks too to our referees for officiating, and míle buíochas to everyone who supports our game.

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Senior, Intermediate & Junior: Full Previews for a Defining Weekend in the 2025 GAA Rounders Championships

🔥 Championship Weekend: Senior,  Intermediate & Junior Showdowns

The 2025 GAA Rounders Championship is entering a defining stage — and this weekend could be season-shaping. With only a few games remaining, every inning matters as clubs across the Senior, Intermediate and Junior divisions battle for top-two spots and a shot at All-Ireland glory.

From unbeaten runs to must-win deciders, we’ve previewed every match, broken down recent form, and offered predictions to help you track who’s rising, who’s chasing, and who’s running out of road.

Let’s dive into what promises to be the most competitive weekend of the championship so far. 🥎

🟢 Senior Men Rounders

Sunday, 29 June 2025

🏟️ Raheen vs Cuchulainn

🕰️ 12:30pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Philip

Preview:
Two sides looking to climb off the bottom. Cuchulainn picked up a confidence-boosting win over Michael Glavey’s on June 15 (9–2) and are now on 14 points after four games. Raheen are still searching for their first win, but they at least batted five in their last outing against Carrickmacross (4–18), considering they only had seven starting – that’s quite an achievement. They’ll fancy their chances at home, but they must tighten up defensively – they’ve conceded 18 and 13 in recent matches.

Form:
• Raheen: L vs Carrickmacross, L vs Breaffy
• Cuchulainn: W vs Glavey’s, L vs Glynn Barntown, L vs Breaffy

Verdict:
Raheen to use home advantage and field their strongest team of the season and get the win.

🏟️ Glynn Barntown vs Limekiln

🕰️ 2:00pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Michael D

Preview:
This is a crunch tie for both sides. Limekiln have completed their four matches and sit on 14 points – they need results elsewhere to go their way. Glynn Barntown, on the other hand, have a game in hand and could leapfrog Limekiln on games won. They lost narrowly to Erne Eagles but bounced back well to beat Cuchulainn (11–7). Home advantage might be key.

Form:
• Glynn Barntown: L vs Erne Eagles, W vs Cuchulainn
• Limekiln: L vs Erne Eagles, W vs Cuchulainn

Verdict:
A true four-pointer – Barntown’s home pitch might just swing it.

🏟️ Michael Glavey’s vs Erne Eagles –

Cancelled

🕰️ 4:00pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Iain

Preview:
A tough task ahead for Glavey’s. They’ve been on the wrong end of some heavy defeats, including a 1–17 loss to Carrickmacross and 2–9 to Cuchulainn. Erne Eagles, unbeaten with three wins from three, are hitting form at the right time. They saw off Glynn Barntown 9–5 and dominated Limekiln 14–5. Expect them to keep the pressure on top spot.

Form:
• Michael Glavey’s: L vs Carrickmacross, L vs Cuchulainn
• Erne Eagles: W vs Limekiln, W vs Glynn Barntown

Verdict:
Erne Eagles to win comfortably and stay on course for the semi-finals.


🟢 Senior Ladies Rounders

🏟️ Raheen vs Cuchulainn
🕰️ 11:00am | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Philip
📅 Sunday, 29 June 2025

Preview:

Both teams come into this clash knowing that a win keeps them in the race for the knockouts, while a loss could all but end their season.
Cuchulainn have suffered two narrow defeats so far – a 15–7 loss to Glynn Barntown and a remarkable 34–30 shootout with Erne Eagles that turned into one of the highest-scoring games in the competition’s history.

Raheen have only played once and were well beaten by Breaffy (1–15), but they’ll hope home soil gives them the spark needed to kickstart their season.
They’ve shown flashes of potential, but they’ll need to contain the aggressive Cuchulainn batters, who have posted a combined 37 runs in just two matches.

Form:

  • Raheen: L vs Breaffy (1–15)
  • Cuchulainn: L vs Glynn Barntown (7–15), L vs Erne Eagles (30–34)

Verdict:

If Raheen can field a full side and get their defence working, they’ll make a contest of this. But on scoring form alone, Cuchulainn’s firepower gives them the edge – especially with playoff points at stake. Expect another high-scoring battle.

🟢 Prediction: Cuchulainn to win by 6+ runs.

🟢 Senior Mixed Rounders

Sunday, 29 June 2025

🏟️ Carrickmacross Emmets vs The Heath

🕰️ 11:00am | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Not confirmed

Preview:
Carrickmacross are bottom of the table after narrow losses to Limekiln and Glynn Barntown. But they’ve batted well in patches and are improving game by game. The Heath, meanwhile, have a win and a loss – including a hard-fought win over Kilmeena and a heavy loss to Breaffy last time out. This is a must-win for both teams if they want to keep semi-final hopes alive.

Form:
• Carrickmacross: L vs Glynn Barntown (5–12), L vs Limekiln (6–7)
• The Heath: W vs Kilmeena, L vs Breaffy (4–11)

Verdict:
This will be a close encounter but Carrickmacross should get their first win of the campaign by a narrow margin. 

🏟️ Glynn Barntown vs Limekiln

🕰️ 3:30pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Michael D

Preview:
One of the biggest clashes of the round. Glynn Barntown are unbeaten with three wins from three and sit just one point off top. Limekiln have already played four and need this one to have a chance of finishing in the top four. Glynn’s defence has been rock solid, while Limekiln have conceded 42 in four games – they’ll need a big turnaround.

Form:
• Glynn Barntown: W vs Erne Eagles (10–6), W vs Carrickmacross (12–5), W vs Cuchulainn (22–17)
• Limekiln: L vs Erne Eagles (8–21), L vs Cuchulainn (7–8), W vs Carrickmacross (7–6), W vs Kilmeena (5–4)

Verdict:
Barntown to win and potentially go top – but they’ll be made work for it.

🏟️ Kilmeena vs Erne Eagles

🕰️ 12:00pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Jack

Preview:
Erne Eagles have found form after an opening-day loss to Glynn Barntown and have put up big scores in wins over Limekiln and The Heath. Kilmeena, by contrast, are bottom of the table with three losses from three and a -39 run difference. This could be a tough afternoon if the Eagles get going early, but don’t underestimate Kilmeena who will be well up for this home game.

Form:
• Kilmeena: L vs Breaffy (13–28), L vs Cuchulainn (0–22), L vs The Heath
• Erne Eagles: L vs Glynn Barntown (6–10), W vs Limekiln (21–8), W vs The Heath (13–4)

Verdict:
Erne Eagles to win, but it might be closer than people expect. 

🟡 Intermediate Men Rounders – Week 8 Preview

Sunday, 29 June 2025

🏟️ Kilmeena vs Galway City Rapparees

🕰️ 3:00pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Jack

Preview: This could easily be this years All-Ireland final pairing, Table-toppers Kilmeena have been unstoppable so far – three wins from three and 82 runs scored in the process. They’ve already racked up big wins over St. Clare’s, Emo, and Dublin Mets, with a +53 run difference and 15 points to show for it.

The Galway City Rapparees are a much tougher test, though. They ran Emo close (25–26) when they were severely under strength and hammered Dublin Mets (20–6). A win here would put them firmly in the conversation for top spot.

Form:
• Kilmeena: W vs Dublin (30–8), W vs St Clare’s (22–15), W vs Emo (30–6)
• Rapparees: W vs Dublin (20–6), L vs Emo (25–26)

Verdict:
Kilmeena are favourites, but this is their biggest test yet. Expect a high-scoring thriller – edge to Kilmeena by a couple of runs.

🏟️ St. Clare’s vs Dublin Metropolitans

🕰️ 10:30am | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Iain

Preview:
Dublin Metropolitans have been wildly inconsistent – they stunned Emo in Round 1 but were hammered by Kilmeena and outclassed by the Rapparees. A lot of their performance depends on how well their bowler settles early in the game.

St. Clare’s have only played once so far – a spirited loss to Kilmeena (15–22) – and will be eager to make a statement at home. If they can avoid early errors, they’re more than capable of controlling this game.

Form:
• St. Clare’s: L vs Kilmeena (15–22)
• Dublin: W vs Emo (19–14), L vs Rapparees (6–20), L vs Kilmeena (8–30)

Verdict:
St. Clare’s should take this one. Dublin Met’s chances will hinge on their bowler’s control and rhythm, but the hosts look more settled.

🟡 Intermediate Ladies Rounders – Week 8 Preview

Sunday, 29 June 2025

🏟️ Carrickmacross Emmets vs The Heath

🕰️ 1:00pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Not confirmed

Preview:
Carrickmacross are the standout team in the group – five wins from five, 89 runs scored, and already qualified. But don’t expect them to ease off. They’re a well-balanced side, and they’ll want to maintain momentum heading into the knockout stages.

The Heath, though, have been quietly impressive – two wins from two, including a 27–25 thriller against Kilmeena. If they pull off another upset here, they’ll announce themselves as serious contenders.

Verdict:
Carrick look too strong – but The Heath will push them all the way.

🏟️ Kilmeena vs Galway City Rapparees

🕰️ 1:30pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Jack

Preview:
Kilmeena need the win to keep their top-four hopes alive. They’ve posted massive scores this season – 95 runs in total – but they’ve also leaked 76, including heavy losses to The Heath and Carrickmacross. Galway City Rapparees, meanwhile, are out of form but not out of fight. They’ve been boosted by the return of some key players this week and could be a very different proposition.

Verdict:
Kilmeena should take it – but Galway could snatch an unlikely win if their returning players click. 

🏟️ Emo vs Michael Glavey’s

🕰️ 11:00am | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: PJ

Preview:
This one is vital for both. Glavey’s are in the top four on 16 points, but with Carrickmacross and Kilmeena already ahead, they need to win to stay in the mix. Emo are just two points behind and have been wildly unpredictable – beaten heavily by Carrickmacross but competitive in others. This will come down to who makes fewer errors in the early innings but Emo are a completely different team at home and should have enough fire power.

 

Verdict:
If this game was in Michael Glavey’s, you would fancy them to win,  but Emo are a different team at home and should  just about edge it. 

🟡 Intermediate Mixed

Sunday, 29 June 2025

🏟️ St. Clare’s vs Athenry

🕰️ 12:00pm | 🧑‍⚖️ Ref: Iain

Preview:
With only the top two in the group qualifying for the semi-finals, this clash carries huge weight. Both sides have ground to make up — and defeat here could all but end a team’s season.

St. Clare’s looked strong early on, edging out Michael Glavey’s,  but had a heavy defeat against Erne Eagles despite how close it looked on the scoreboard 22–20. They’re consistent and well-structured, with a balanced attack and a sharp infield.

Athenry, despite sitting on two losses, have shown real grit. They came within two runs of beating Michael Glavey’s (15–13) and have improved defensively since their earlier loss to Galway City Rapparees. They’ll know a win puts them right back in the mix — but a loss likely ends their hopes and puts them in relegation danger.

Verdict: St. Clare’s have the edge on form and structure, but Athenry won’t go quietly. Clare’s to take it — just.

🟡 Group D – Junior Ladies Championship

Leighlinbridge have secured a top two in the group and will qualify for the knockout stages if they turn up on Sunday. A win over Kilaneran earlier in the group shows they can mix it with anyone, but falling short against Castletown Liam Mellows means they’re still learning. The big result was their 34–8 demolition of Ferns which gives them hope in the run rate department.

Castletown Liam Mellows are already safely through after three impressive wins, including that 10-run victory over Leighlinbridge. Kilaneran sit level on points but are finished their games, and having lost to Leighlinbridge and drawn with Glynn Barntown, they may get edged out on head-to-head or run rate.

This is Glynn Barntown third ladies team, which in itself is a phenomenal achievement. They’ll finish out their campaign against Leighlinbridge – and while silverware might not be on the cards, the Wexford outfit have already won in numbers. Leighlinbridge may not lift the trophy this year – but when it comes to social media presence, they’re head and shoulders above the rest.

🔮 Qualification:

  • Castletown Liam Mellows – Qualified ✅
  • Leighlinbridge – Qualifed for quarter-final if they turn up on Sunday. ✅
Elphin rounders team

Guide to This Weekend’s GAA Rounders Action

Another action-packed weekend of GAA Rounders lies ahead as clubs across the country take to the field on Sunday, 8 June 2025.

With championship points at stake and league tables tightening, every innings matters now.

Scroll on for your full match-by-match previews across Senior, Intermediate and Junior — including predictions, key stats and expected run tallies.

🟢 Senior Mens – Round 4 Preview (8 June 2025)

With Breaffy and Carrickmacross flying, Glynn and Erne finding form, and others still searching for a spark, Round 3 of the Senior Men’s Championship is set to shape the mid-season landscape. From bottom-of-the-table battles to top-of-the-group clashes, here’s what to expect this Sunday.


Limekiln vs Cuchulainn

📍 Tymon Park 1 | 🕒 12:30pm | 👩‍⚖️ Ref: Sarah

Two teams, two defeats each – but this clash could define who stays in the hunt for semi-finals. Limekiln have at least shown they can swing the bat, with 11 runs against Breaffy and 6 against Carrickmacross. Cuchulainn, on the other hand, were whitewashed 22–0 by Erne and edged out by Glynn. Defence has been their downfall, shipping 33 and 11, and they need a response here.

🔍 Key Stat: Limekiln (-2.3 RR) slightly better than Cuchulainn (-4.0 RR)
🔮 Prediction: Limekiln to edge it
📊 Estimated Runs: Limekiln 13–16, Cuchulainn 6–9

Michael Glaveys vs Carrickmacross Emmets

📍 Michael Glavey’s | 🕒 1:30pm | 👨‍⚖️ Ref: Iain

Carrickmacross might be flying under the radar, but they’ve quietly established themselves as title contenders. They’ve beaten both Glynn Barntown and Limekiln by 9-run margins, conceding just 10 total. Glaveys suffered a 31–6 loss to Breaffy, and unless their fielding sharpens up, they could be in for another long day.

🔍 Key Stat: Carrick have scored 15 in both games
🔮 Prediction: Carrick to go 3 from 3
📊 Estimated Runs: Glaveys 6–9, Carrickmacross 14–18

Raheen vs Breaffy

📍 Tymon Park 2 | 🕒 2:00pm | 👩‍⚖️ Ref: AnnMarie

Raheen’s season begins against the most dangerous offence in the league. Breaffy have put up scores of 21 and 31 in just two games, and already lead the division for runs scored and run rate (+7.0). Raheen are an unknown quantity, but opening against this juggernaut isn’t ideal. It’ll be trial by fire.

🔍 Key Stat: Breaffy are averaging 26 runs per game
🔮 Prediction: Breaffy to win big
📊 Estimated Runs: Raheen 4–7, Breaffy 20–26

Glynn Barntown vs Erne Eagles

📍 Glynn Barntown | 🕒 4:00pm | 👨‍⚖️ Ref: Michael D

Game of the day potential here. Glynn are 1–1 after a convincing win over Cuchulainn and a tough loss to Carrick. Erne Eagles, meanwhile, destroyed that same Cuchulainn side 22–0 in their only outing. The big question: can Eagles replicate that explosive form on the road against a more disciplined side?

🔍 Key Stat: Erne Eagles have not conceded a run yet
🔮 Prediction: Erne Eagles to sneak it in a tight finish
📊 Estimated Runs: Glynn 10–13, Erne Eagles 14–18

🔷 Senior Ladies – Round 2 Preview (8 June 2025)

Breaffy begin their drive for a four-in-a-row this weekend, as the reigning champions finally get their 2025 campaign underway. With Glynn Barntown and Erne Eagles also in strong early form, and Cuchulainn already facing pressure after two defeats, every result this weekend matters.

Glynn Barntown vs Erne Eagles

📍 Glynn Barntown | 🕒 12:30pm | 👨‍⚖️ Ref: Michael D

A heavyweight clash between two of the most composed sides in the competition. Glynn were tidy and clinical in their 15–7 win over Cuchulainn, while Erne Eagles edged a wild shootout 34–30 against the same opposition. This one could decide early top-spot momentum, and Glynn’s tighter defence may just give them the edge on home turf.

🔍 Key Stat: Glynn have conceded just 7 runs. Erne Eagles gave up 30.
🔮 Prediction: Glynn to edge it.
📊 Estimated Runs: Glynn 12–15, Erne Eagles 10–13

Raheen vs Breaffy

📍 Tymon Park 2 | 🕒 12:30pm | 👩‍⚖️ Ref: AnnMarie

This will be Raheen’s first outing of the campaign — and the task could hardly be tougher. Breaffy have dominated Senior Ladies Rounders in recent years, and begin their 2025 season aiming for a fourth straight All-Ireland title. With a deep squad and vast experience, they’ll be looking to make an early statement of intent.

🔍 Key Stat: Breaffy scored 21 in their 2024 opener vs Limekiln.
🔮 Prediction: Breaffy to win convincingly.
📊 Estimated Runs: Raheen 5–9, Breaffy 18–24

🟣 Senior Mixed – Round 3 Preview (8 June 2025)

The Senior Mixed Championship is heating up fast with Glynn Barntown and Breaffy both 2–0 and looking dominant. But with Erne Eagles and The Heath lurking with games in hand, there’s still plenty of shake-up potential. Sunday’s fixtures see all eyes on Wexford and Tymon Park as teams look to stake their semi-final credentials.

Limekiln vs Cuchulainn

📍 Tymon Park 1 | 🕒 2:00pm | 👩‍⚖️ Ref: Sarah

A must-win for both. Limekiln edged past Carrick by a run and fell short against Breaffy in a tight 7–5 loss. Cuchulainn, meanwhile, have shown real firepower (29 runs in 2 games) but are shipping far too many (45 conceded). Expect a high-paced contest with pressure on both sides to keep top-4 hopes alive.

🔍 Key Stat: Cuchulainn have the worst defensive record in the division.
🔮 Prediction: Limekiln to hold their nerve in a shootout.
📊 Estimated Runs: Limekiln 11–14, Cuchulainn 10–13

Glynn Barntown vs Erne Eagles

📍 Glynn Barntown | 🕒 2:30pm | 👨‍⚖️ Ref: Michael D

An early blockbuster. Glynn are two from two after wins over Cuchulainn and Carrick, with a solid +1.2 run rate. Erne Eagles, meanwhile, walloped Cuchulainn 23–12 and looked sharp despite just one outing. This clash will tell us if Glynn are true title contenders — or if Erne Eagles deep lineup is ready to explode into the top two.

🔍 Key Stat: Both teams beat Cuchulainn — Erne Eagles did it by 11 runs, Glynn by 5.
🔮 Prediction: Erne Eagles to land a big road win in a high-scoring classic.
📊 Estimated Runs: Glynn 14–17, Erne Eagles 16–20

🟠 Intermediate Men – Round 4 Preview (8 June 2025)

With Galway City, Kilmeena and Emo all showing championship potential and Dublin Metropolitans slipping despite playing three, the Intermediate Men’s title race is wide open. This weekend, all eyes are on Mayo as two of the top contenders clash in what could be a group-defining showdown.

Kilmeena vs Emo

📍 Kilmeena | 🕒 Sunday, 8 June 2025

This is a huge one. Kilmeena come in unbeaten and unbothered, having racked up wins over St Clares and Dublin with a +6.4 run rate. Emo, on the other hand, have shown both sides of their game – solid in their comeback win over Galway City (26–25), less disciplined against Dublin (14–19). Expect a free-scoring contest between two powerful hitting lineups with semi-final implications.

🔍 Key Stat: Kilmeena have scored 52 and only conceded 23 in two games.
🔮 Prediction: Kilmeena to stay unbeaten in a close contest.
📊 Estimated Runs: Kilmeena 20–25, Emo 17–22

🟡 Intermediate Ladies – Round 4 Preview (8 June 2025)

The Intermediate Ladies Championship is proving to be one of the most competitive this season. With six different winners already and no runaway leader, Round 4 could begin to shape the semi-final picture. All eight teams are in action this Sunday in what could be a season-defining day.

Galway City Rapparees vs Glynn Barntown

📍 Tymon Park | 🕒 Sunday, 8 June 2025

The Rapparees are still chasing their first win, having suffered a heavy defeat to Emo after some pitching issues. Glynn Barntown, meanwhile, picked up a tight win over Emo but have already lost to St Clares. This clash could go either way if Rapparees settle early and get their big hitters firing.

🔍 Key Stat: Rapparees’ run rate is -6.6 after one game.
🔮 Prediction: Rapparees to bounce back and hold their composure.
📊 Estimated Runs: Rapparees 20-23, Glynn Barntown 14–17

Michael Glaveys vs Carrickmacross Emmets

📍 Michael Glaveys | 🕒 Sunday, 8 June 2025

Two of the top contenders go head-to-head in what could be a preview of a semi-final. Glaveys are 2-1, their only loss coming to The Heath. Carrick are unbeaten and have already racked up 52 runs across 3 wins. Expect fireworks — and no shortage of ambition from either side.

🔍 Key Stat: Carrickmacross have the best scoring average in the division.
🔮 Prediction: Carrick to win narrowly in the game of the round.
📊 Estimated Runs: Glaveys 15–18, Carrickmacross 18–22

Kilmeena vs Emo

📍 Kilmeena | 🕒 Sunday, 8 June 2025

Both sides have shown real attacking threat — Kilmeena scored 25 in their loss to The Heath, while Emo hit 30 against Rapparees. Defence has been the issue for both, and this could turn into a slugfest. After some really close losses Kilmeena have to win this one or their semi-final chances maybe gone.

🔍 Key Stat: Combined runs conceded between them: 95 in 6 games.
🔮 Prediction: Kilmeena to edge a high-scoring battle.
📊 Estimated Runs: Kilmeena 14-17, Emo 13-16

St Clares vs The Heath

📍 The Heath | 🕒 Sunday, 8 June 2025

Clares bounced back from their opening loss to Carrick with an impressive 11–10 win over Kilmeena. But The Heath look like a serious threat, unbeaten in two and currently boasting the best run differential of all. This is a test of St Clares’ staying power against a clinical unit.

🔍 Key Stat: The Heath are averaging 25.5 runs per game.
🔮 Prediction: The Heath to remain unbeaten and pull away late.
📊 Estimated Runs: St Clares 11–14, The Heath 18–22

🟢 Intermediate Mixed – Round 4 Preview (8 June 2025)

The Intermediate Mixed Championship is where the chaos lives this year — runs flying in every direction, and Emo running riot in Group B with a +59 scoring differential. But this weekend offers a chance for the chasing pack to strike back, with key ties in both groups setting up a crunch mid-season round.

Michael Glaveys vs Athenry

📍 Michael Glaveys | 🕒 Sunday, 8 June 2025 – 3pm

After scraping past Erne Eagles and narrowly losing to St Clares, Glaveys know they need this one to stay on top of Group A. Athenry are still licking their wounds from a heavy opening loss to Rapparees, but with a free round since, they’ll be refreshed. If Glaveys’ defence holds up, they should get over the line — but Athenry will come swinging.

🔍 Key Stat: Glaveys have conceded just 25 runs in 2 games, the best defence in Group A.
🔮 Prediction: Glaveys to grind out a result in a lower-scoring affair.
📊 Estimated Runs: Glaveys 13–16, Athenry 8–12

Raheen vs Na Fianna

📍 Tymon Park | 🕒 Sunday, 8 June 2025 – 3:30pm

This is a must-win for both teams in Group B. Na Fianna were battered by Emo and desperately need to turn their -5.9 run rate around. Raheen, too, were on the wrong end of a 40–23 scoreline last time out, but at least showed they can rack up runs. Expect a fiery clash between two sides looking to bounce back — and avoid the foot of the group.

🔍 Key Stat: Raheen and Na Fianna have shipped 63 runs combined in their only games so far.
🔮 Prediction: Raheen to edge a thriller
📊 Estimated Runs: Raheen 18–23, Na Fianna 16–20

Junior Men’s – 8 June 2025

Elphin v St Senans
Venue: Elphin   |   Time: 2pm   |

Elphin return to home soil badly in need of a lift. They were one run short against Kilmore and suffered a confidence-shattering 26–4 defeat to Na Piarsaigh last time out. A win here would reignite their season — anything else leaves them in big trouble.

For St Senans, this is their championship debut, and they’ll be hoping to make a splash. With every other team in the group having already played at least once, a strong performance would open up a route to the knockout stages. Expect early nerves, but this side has energy to burn.

🔍 Key Stat: Elphin have conceded 51 runs in two matches — the most in Group A.

🔮 Prediction: Elphin to edge it by a couple of runs, but don’t rule out a late Senans rally.

📊 Estimated Runs:
• Elphin – 15.5 runs
• St Senans – 14.0 runs

Junior Mixed – 8 June 2025

Kilmeena vs Mayo Gaels

📅 8 June 2025
📍 Kilmeena – 3pm

Kilmeena are in a must-win scenario after a mixed bag of results in their opening three matches. They’ve scored heavily at times but leaked 65 and 27 in their two defeats. With just one win from three and a run rate of -3.0, their top-four hopes hang by a thread.

Mayo Gaels, meanwhile, have just two games played and no wins on the board. Their -5.6 run rate is one of the worst in the Junior Men’s championship, and their total score of 17 runs across two matches tells its own story. They’ll need a dramatic turnaround to avoid finishing bottom of the group.

🔍 Key Stat:
Mayo Gaels have scored just 17 runs in two games — the lowest scoring side in the entire Junior mixed championship so far.

🔮 Prediction:
Kilmeena to get back on track with a convincing win.

📊 Estimated Runs:
Kilmeena 24 – 10 Mayo Gaels

 

Junior Ladies Preview – Inniskeen Grattans vs Drumhowan Geraldines

🗓 Date: 8 June 2025
📍 Venue: Drumhowan
🏆 Competition: Junior Ladies – Group A

Fresh from a statement win over Carrickmacross Emmets, Inniskeen Grattans will be brimming with confidence as they prepare to face early group leaders Drumhowan Geraldines.

The Monaghan side have racked up 76 runs in 3 matches, including a dominant win away to Clonguish. Their run rate of 5.2 is the best in the group, and they’re tied at the top of the table with Carrick.

Inniskeen, meanwhile, showed their grit by holding Emmets to just 6 runs in their last outing. If their defence holds again, this could be a tight contest.

🔍 Key Stat:
Drumhowan’s 76 runs in 3 games is very impressive

🔮 Prediction:
Drumhowan are flying and might just have too much firepower – but if Inniskeen’s fielding clicks, an upset could be brewing.

📊 Estimated Runs:
Drumhowan Geraldines: 18–22
Inniskeen Grattans: 12–16

Sunday’s Rounders Results: Breaffy Blitz, Glynn Barntown Sweep, and Carrickmacross Men Shine

Sunday’s Rounders Results: Breaffy Blitz, Glynn Barntown Sweep, and Carrickmacross Men Shine

The 2025 GAA Rounders season produced another action-packed Sunday with standout results across all grades.
Breaffy delivered a fireworks show with a two massive home wins, Glynn Barntown completed a senior sweep in Ballon, and Carrickmacross Emmets men’s impressed.
Emo extended their unbeaten run, while Gusserane, Wolfe Tones, and Kilmeena made statements in the junior ranks. Here’s the full breakdown from Sunday, 25th May.

Senior Mixed

Cuchulainn 17–22 Glynn Barntown
Cuchulainn’s offence fired early, with scores from Amy Maloney, Leah Mullins, Carmel Maloney, Caroline Waters, Billy Connors, and Pearce Ryan. They posted 5 in both the first and third innings, but Barntown’s 16-run burst across the middle innings proved too much to overcome.

Limekiln 7–6 Carrickmacross Emmets
A razor-tight Senior Mixed contest saw Limekiln edge Carrick by a single run. Chris Hughes was outstanding, delivering under pressure and leading Limekiln’s late push.

Breaffy 28–12 Kilmeena – Senior Mixed
Breaffy’s Mixed team made it two dominant wins on the day, racking up a massive score in blustery conditions. Mark Jennings and Leo Cannon hitting home runs. Even after emptying the bench, Kilmeena stayed competitive and scored consistently, but couldn’t match Breaffy’s relentless attack.

Senior Men

Carrickmacross Emmets 15–6 Limekiln
Carrick controlled the game from start to finish. Paddy Bermingham launched a 3-base screamer to clear the bases, while Justin nailed a trademark rocket to 1st for the out of the day. Barry Lambe quietly fouled out a chunk of Limekiln’s batting lineup.

Breaffy 31–6 Michael Glaveys
Breaffy were clinical once again. Jamie Murphy hit three home runs, with support from John Gibbons (2), Colin Cannon. They hit three in a row at one point in a relentless display.

Cuchulainn 7–11 Glynn Barntown
Cuchulainn spread their scoring with contributions from Kevin Laszczak, Adam Kelly, Peadar Waters, Ronan Broderick, Evan Dunphy, and Fiachra Shier. A 5-run fourth inning sealed it for Barntown.

Senior Ladies

Cuchulainn 7–15 Glynn Barntown
Barntown’s scoring across the final innings pushed them ahead. Cuchulainn were led by Amy Maloney, and Caroline Waters, who showed promise in both attack and defence.

Intermediate Mixed

Raheen 23–40 Emo
Three from three for Emo. Eoin Keenan made a brilliant sliding catch, JP sent a home run into the ditch, and Áine anchored things as backstop. Raheen hit 5 home runs but couldn’t match Emo’s firepower.

Junior Men

Myshall 7–6 Inniskeen Grattans

Sean Connollys 19–31 Gusserane

Junior Ladies

Dublin Mets 13–12 Myshall

Carrickmacross Emmets 15–6 Drumhowan Geraldines

Sean Connollys 17–12 Skryne

St Kierans 23–6 Knockainey

Kilaneran 11–8 Ferns St Aidans

Junior Mixed

Wolfe Tones 25–15 Sean Connollys

Kilmeena 9–7 Garrymore

CLICK FOR LEAGUE TABLES

*Updates will be done as results appear

GAA Rounders Week 4 Preview – Sunday 25th May

GAA Rounders Week 4 Preview
Sunday 25th May

Breaffy vs Kilmeena – Senior Mixed (1pm)

Breaffy are the reigning All-Ireland champions and looked every bit the part in their opening rounds. This is the first ever championship meeting of the two Mayo clubs. Kilmeena, newcomers to the senior grade, will be up against it after losing their opener to The Heath, 13–11. With a polished batting order and disciplined fielding, Breaffy should have this wrapped up early.

Prediction: Breaffy

Breaffy vs Michael Glaveys – Senior Men (2:30pm)

Michael Glaveys have found the Senior Men’s grade a tough transition and will need to find form quickly. A trip to Breaffy is a tough ask. The hosts have shown immense progress over the past 24 months and will look to use home turf to their advantage.

Prediction: Breaffy

Cuchulainn vs Glynn Barntown – Senior Ladies (11am)

Cuchulainn are gritty but lost an epic opening battle against Erne Eagles, 34–30. Glynn Barntown’s infield is clinical, and their batting lineup shows no signs of slowing. They must be favourites for the title—this fixture will show whether that’s justified.

Prediction: Glynn Barntown

Cuchulainn vs Glynn Barntown – Senior Mixed (12:30pm)

Another tough test for the hosts. Glynn Barntown’s mixed side already look like semi-final contenders, showing strong structure and composure in their 12–5 away win over Carrick. Cuchulainn will need to stay error-free and strike early with the bat. Should be a very entertaining contest.

Prediction: Glynn Barntown

Cuchulainn vs Glynn Barntown – Senior Men (2pm)

Glynn Barntown’s third clash of the day—but fatigue shouldn’t be a factor. Their men’s side has great depth and will back themselves to complete a clean sweep. Cuchulainn will be determined, but it may not be enough.

Prediction: Clean sweep for Glynn Barntown

Carrickmacross vs Drumhowan – Junior Ladies (11am)

Carrickmacross have been ruthless in this grade, while Drumhowan smashed 49 runs in just two innings against Sean Connolly’s. This match could decide who qualifies for the quarter-final.

Prediction: Carrickmacross

Carrickmacross vs Limekiln – Senior Mixed (12:30pm)

Both sides lost their opening matches, making this a vital clash—losing two in a row makes competing at senior level extremely difficult. Limekiln bring physicality and presence, but Carrick have more weapons across the diamond. This could be the game of the weekend.

Prediction: Carrickmacross

Carrickmacross vs Limekiln – Senior Men (2pm)

This one’s all about belief. Carrick’s men are developing into a real force and will fancy their chances against a Limekiln side convincingly beaten by Breaffy. Expect a decent crowd and even bigger energy for this clash.

Prediction: Carrickmacross

The Heath vs Kevin’s – Senior Mixed Game OFF

Kevin’s are goneHeath edged past Kilmeena in their opening fixture. Kevin’s haven’t played yet this season, but on their day they could beat anyone. This match will say a lot about how both teams’ seasons are shaping up.

Prediction: OFF

Sean Connolly’s vs Skryne – Junior Ladies (11am)

Sean Connolly’s haven’t impressed so far, conceding heavily to Drumhowan, but if they can shore up their defence, they have the ability to score. Skryne are playing their first game of the season, and if they get the bats going, they could be hard to stop.

Prediction: Skryne

Sean Connolly’s vs Wolfe Tones – Junior Mixed (1pm)

Wolfe Tones opened with a good win, but Sean Connolly’s have enough talent to make this a tight encounter. This could go down to the final inning.

Prediction: Wolfe Tones

Sean Connolly’s vs Gusserane – Junior Men (3pm)

In a strange twist, Sean Connolly’s were one of the few unbeaten teams in 2024 but missed the knockouts due to a walkover. Gusserane will push them hard, but expect the Longford side to end the day on a high.

Prediction: Sean Connolly’s

Myshall vs Dublin Metropolitans – Junior Ladies (11am)

Myshall have been quietly impressive and will see this as a crucial game in their knockout push. Dublin Metropolitans have experience and depth—it could all come down to bowling.

Prediction: Dublin Metropolitans

Myshall vs Dublin Metropolitans – Junior Mixed (1pm)

This could be one of the most exciting games of the round. Both teams are athletic and aggressive. Dublin Metropolitans reached the semi-finals last year and are serious contenders for the title.

Prediction: Dublin Metropolitans

Myshall vs Inniskeen Grattans – Junior Men (3pm)

Inniskeen have far more experience in their squad and, after losing last year’s All-Ireland final, are hungry to go one better. Myshall will try to control the early innings, but it may be a tall order.

Prediction: Inniskeen Grattans

Raheen vs Emo – Intermediate Mixed (11am)

Emo blitzed Na Fianna in Week 1 and cruised past Glynn Barntown last week—easily the form team in the grade. Raheen are entering the competition for the first time this season but were finalists last year and have several senior players. A superb matchup; the winner becomes All-Ireland favourite.

Prediction: Emo

Ballinagore vs Mayo Gaels – Junior Mixed (5pm)

Mayo Gaels are enthusiastic but still developing. Ballinagore are more settled and come in off two solid wins, including a dominant display over Kilmeena. Experience and cohesion should see them through.

Prediction: Ballinagore

Garrymore vs Kilmeena – Junior Mixed (6pm)

A classic Mayo derby. Kilmeena are struggling to find form in Junior Mixed—setting up a second team is always tough—but they’ll know this match could decide who reaches the quarter-finals. Garrymore are gaining momentum, with a solid win over Mayo Gaels behind them.

Prediction: Kilmeena