Preview: Junior Championship an wide open competition in Kildare this year

This year’s Junior Football Championship is not quite as straightforward as last year’s competition to call, with no real standout team looking like they will breeze to the title.

Ballymore Eustace were far too strong for most other teams last year, and their facile win over Caragh was indicative of their class compared to the rest of the field.

Aside from the last two beaten finalists – Caragh and Milltown – there are any number of teams that could come out on top if they hit the type of momentum it takes to win a Junior Championship.

Rheban are arguably the strongest team in the grade, but Roberstown and Rathcoffey will also strongly contend for the title. The highlight clash of the first round is the meeting of Rheban and Caragh, and that should show just how these teams are shaping up for the year ahead.

Friday May 4

Venue: Hawkfield, Ballykelly V Robertstown19:00, Ref: TBC

Monday May 7

Venue: Hawkfield, Rheban V Caragh15:30, Ref: TBC

Venue: Hawkfield, Grangenolvin V Rathcoffey 17.00, Ref: TBC

Friday May 11

Venue: Hawkfield, Castlemitchell V Cappagh20:00, Ref: TBC

Sunday May 13

Venue: Hawkfield, Miltown V Grangenolvin16:00, Ref: TBC

Venue: Hawkfield, Rathcoffey V Rheban17:30, Ref: TBC