Wicklow clash to decide Kildare hurlers' semi-final fate as intriguing clash awaits

While both Kildare and Wicklow are already assured of their place in the semi-finals of the Christy Ring Cup, there is plenty at stake on Saturday in Aughrim when the two sides meet in the final game of the group stage.

The winners will top Group 1 and enjoy home advantage, most probably against London in the semi-final, while the losers will face a probable trip to Down in the other semi-final.

Kildare should be high on confidence after winning their opening two games in very different circumstances. The Lilywhites hammered a dismal Roscommon side in their opening game of the championship in Newbridge, put they were pushed all the way in Ballina when they faced a more battle-hardened Mayo side who will be swapping places with Kildare in the league next year after the westerners earned promotion from 2B and Joe Quaid’s men were relegated.

Both of Wicklow’s wins have been by six points, with their opening day win over Mayo slightly blurred by the fact that the Division 2B champions were missing so many players in Aughrim.

Winning the Christy Ring Cup was always the goal for 2018, with Quaid setting out his stall early in the year with the achievement very much in mind. On paper at least, it looked like Wicklow would be the biggest challengers to Kildare’s aspirations before the tournament started, and Saturday’s game could tell a lot about where these two teams are at.

Don’t be surprised if this is a preface of the eventual final come June 23.