Knockout line up to be determined in Offaly IHC

THE semi-final and quarter-final pairings will be be determined when the final round of group games takes place in the Molloy Precast and Environmental Systems Intermediate Hurling Championship this weekend.

St Rynagh's and Shamrocks have definitely qualified and the other four qualifiers will be known on Sunday evening.

Group 1

Seir Kieran v St Rynagh's: Sunday, August 24 in Rath 12.30pm

St Rynagh's will claim a semi-final place if they pick up a point while Seir Kieran need a point to be sure. Even if the Clareen men lose, they will still qualify unless Belmont beat Birr and there is a tie of three teams on two points for two places.

Verdict – St Rynagh's.

Belmont v Birr: Sunday, August 23 in Lusmagh 12.30pm

Belmont have not been far off a win but it hasn't quite happened for them and they are in danger of a group exit. They will fancy taking on Birr but are underdogs.

Verdict – Birr.

Group 1

Drumcullen v Ballinamere: Friday, August 22 in Rath 7pm

A big game for Drumcullen after their defeat by Shamrocks in their last game and they need a win to be sure of qualification. They can't take anything for granted and their loss to Shamrocks raises some questions but they are the favourites. Ballinamere have lost their two games to date and look to be heading for the relegation battle.

Verdict – Drumcullen.

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Shamrocks v Shinrone: Sunday, August 24 in Rath 5.30pm

Shamrocks have emerged as the early title favourites but Shinrone will test them. They won't fear them at all and have plenty of good hurlers but Shamrocks are going well and with heavy dual commitments will be keen to go direct into the semi-finals rather than having to play a quarter-final.

Verdict – Shamrocks.