PREVIEW AND PREDICTION: Can Rosenallis spring another surprise against The Harps?
The game throws-in at 7.30pm this evening
This weekend’s Round 4 games in the Laois Shopping Centre SHC could go a long way towards deciding the final group standings, with just one round of fixtures remaining after this weekend.
Friday evening’s game sees The Harps, last year’s Senior ‘B’ champions, face Rosenallis, who reached the quarter-finals of last year’s championship before being beaten by Ballinakill.
The two clubs have identical records from their three games to date, with two wins and one defeat apiece.
The Harps picked up their second win in a row last time out when they defeated Portlaoise, while Rosenallis pulled off the shock of the round by beating a 14-man Rathdowney-Errill, with Charlie Friel’s late point securing a one-point victory.
Prior to those wins, The Harps had beaten Abbeyleix in Round 2, while Rosenallis got the better of Ballyfin. Both sides had lost their opening games, with Camross beating The Harps and Rosenallis going down to three-in-a-row chasing Clough/Ballacolla.
Both teams come into Friday evening’s game knowing a victory would put them top of their respective groups, at least temporarily.
A win for Rosenallis would see them move top of Group A ahead of Camross, who are also on four points and face Borris-Kilcotton on Saturday evening. Meanwhile, a victory for The Harps would put them joint-top of Group B alongside Clough/Ballacolla, who don’t play until Sunday afternoon against Abbeyleix.
Rosenallis have been tricky customers so far in the championship. Clough/Ballacolla only managed to beat them by three points and, with confidence high following their victory over Rathdowney-Errill, they could cause another upset.
However, The Harps have been particularly impressive in front of goal during their first three games. Although Portlaoise restricted them to just one goal last time out, they had scored eight in their opening two matches, giving them nine goals in total.
Rosenallis will likely have to keep The Harps’ forwards quiet and prevent the green flags from going up if they are to claim another big scalp.
The Harps look the more dangerous side and, despite Rosenallis’ recent form, I expect them to back up their favourites tag and make it three wins on the bounce.
Prediction: The Harps
The game throws-in at 7.30pm on Friday, August 14, in Laois Hire O’Moore Park.