Murray on Guard as St Marys Face Stern Test Against Blues in Louth SFC Semi-Final
Ardee News and Sport — Ardee St Marys manager Cathal Murray is preparing his team for a crucial test of character as they face Newtown Blues in the Louth Senior Football Championship semi-final this Saturday evening in Haggardstown (6pm). The defending champions, well aware of the challenge posed by the Drogheda side, are determined not to be caught off guard again.
Murray has emphasized the importance of not underestimating their opponents, especially after Blues’ shock victory over the Marys in the group stages. In that encounter, Blues delivered a stunning 2-goal victory in Dunleer, toppling the reigning champions and securing first place in the group. The result sent shockwaves through the championship, showing just how dangerous John Kermode’s team can be on their day. Meanwhile, Ardee St Marys were forced to settle for second in the group, a position unfamiliar to the title-holders.
However, the quarter-finals saw a return to form for the Marys, as they showcased their quality with a commanding victory over St Pats. Key players returned to the fold for the champions, offering much-needed experience and leadership at a pivotal time. Among them, the return of All-Star nominee Donal McKenny, who is now available after serving a suspension, provides a major boost heading into the semi-final clash. McKenny’s presence is expected to strengthen both the defensive and attacking lines for the Ardeemen, giving Murray’s side a crucial edge.
Despite the positive momentum from their quarter-final performance, Cathal Murray remains cautious. He acknowledged that their previous defeat to Newtown Blues was a wake-up call and highlighted that his team had underperformed on the day.
“There was a realisation within the group after that loss that we didn’t show anywhere near our best. We were well below par,” Murray admitted. “But we’ve learned from that, and the lads are fully focused on making sure we don’t get caught like that again. There are no second chances now.”
With no room for error at this stage of the competition, Ardee St Marys will need to call on all their experience and grit to get past a well-drilled Blues side who have proven their ability to disrupt even the strongest of teams. For the reigning champions, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they look to keep their title defence on track and book a place in the county final.
For the Blues, confidence will be high following their earlier triumph over Ardee, but they will be well aware that Saturday’s semi-final presents a different level of challenge.