2026 FBD Insurance County Hurling Championships
Last weekend was an exciting one on the club championship front in Tipperary with county titles decided across several grades.
Senior Hurling Championship
The FBD Insurance County Senior Hurling Championship Final was the centrepiece of proceedings last Sunday at FBD Semple Stadium as local rivals Thurles Sarsfields and Moycarkey Borris faced off for the Dan Breen Cup. Thurles Sarsfields emerged victorious on a scoreline of 1-19 to 1-11 to claim their 37th county senior hurling title. Sarsfields made the perfect start with Eoin Purcell finding the net just seconds into the first half. Moycarkey Borris responded well and a well taken Joe Maher goal in the 22nd minute reduced the deficit to five points. However, Thurles finished the half strongly to establish a seven point advantage at the break, leading 1-12 to 1-5. The second half proved a more controlled affair with Sarsfields maintaining their advantage to secure a comfortable victory. Captain Conor Stakelum accepted the Dan Breen Cup after the game while Eoin Purcell was named Man of the Match after an outstanding performance in which he scored 1-4. He received his award from sponsors Trisha and Derek Cagney of Quirke Trophies Ltd.
Thurles Sarsfields will now turn their attention to the Munster Senior Club Hurling Championship Semi Final on November 15th when they will face the winners of the Quarter Final between Inagh Kilnamona (Clare) and either Glen Rovers or St Finbarr’s (Cork).
Congratulations to Thurles Sarsfields wing forward Eoin Purcell who was named Man of the Match in the FBD Insurance County Senior Huring Final. He is pictured receiving his award from Trisha and Derek Cagney of Quirke Trophies Ltd.
Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship
St Mary’s claimed the FBD Insurance County Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship title in an excellent contest that proved a fitting curtain raiser to the Senior Final. Having already met twice this year, with one victory apiece, there was little to separate St Mary’s and Killenaule. The sides were level at 0-8 each at half-time setting the stage for a competitive second half. A well taken Eoin Shaw goal midway through the second half gave Killenaule a three point advantage. However, St Mary’s responded impressively – drawing level again within five minutes. They then finished the stronger side, scoring the final three points of the game to secure victory. It was a historic success for St Mary’s who claimed the Premier Intermediate title for the first time adding to their Intermediate Championship success in 2017. They also enjoyed a memorable year by winning the South Senior Championship. Captain Seamus Kennedy accepted the Seamus O’Riain Cup after the game while Aaron Cagney was named Man of the Match after scoring 0-5. He received his award from sponsors Trisha and Derek Cagney of Quirke Trophies Ltd. St Mary’s will now represent Tipperary in the Munster Intermediate Club Hurling Championship Quarter Final on November 1st where they will face the Cork champions (either Ballincollig or Dungourney).
Congratulations to St Mary’s wing forward Aaron Cagney who was named Man of the Match in the County Premier Intermediate Huring Final. He is pictured receiving his award from Trisha and Derek Cagney of Quirke Trophies Ltd.
Intermediate Hurling Championship
The FBD Insurance County Intermediate Hurling Championship Final, played last Saturday in Holycross produced one of the games of the year in Tipperary club hurling as Arravale Rovers defeated Ballingarry 1-34 to 3-27 after extra time in a remarkable encounter. Ballingarry made a flying start, racing into an early lead with a Jack Cahill goal helping them go 1-4 to no score ahead. Arravale Rovers gradually settled into the contest and reduced the deficit to a manageable three points by half time, trailing 1-10 to 0-10. Ballingarry looked to have gained control when they opened up a three point lead approaching the closing stages but Rovers refused to surrender. They reduced the gap to one before Cahill again responded for Ballingarry. Points from Orrin Jones, who finished with an outstanding 0-19, and Johnny Ryan brought the sides level at 1-20 to 0-23 to force extra time. Ballingarry looked to have taken a step towards victory in the additional period when two quick fire Simon Blackmore goals put them firmly in control. They led 3-23 to 0-28 at the interval in extra time. Jaye Cilvinas found the net for Rovers with three minutes remaining to put his side two points ahead. Ballingarry responded with three points to reclaim the lead but an Eoghan Lonergan point levelled the contest once more. A Dylan Walsh point reclaimed the lead then for Ballingarry. Then came the decisive moment. From distance, Johnny Ryan struck a magnificent point to secure a remarkable victory for Arravale Rovers, sparking jubilant celebrations among their supporters after an unforgettable game. Captain John Paul Lohan accepted the cup on behalf of the victorious side, while Johnny Ryan was named Man of the Match after scoring 0-6 from midfield. His award was sponsored by Fitzgerald Fleming Long Accountants, Carrick on Suir and presented by Bobby Fitzgerald. With the Premier Intermediate champions representing Tipperary in the Munster Club Championship, Arravale Rovers will instead take part in the tournament organised by Newport for County Intermediate champions.
Congratulations to Johnny Ryan who was named man of the match after Arravale Rovers victory in the FBD Insurance County Intermediate Hurling Final. His award was sponsored by Fitzgerald Fleming Long Accountants, Carrick on Suir and presented by Bobby Fitzgerald. Photo Credit: SportsFocus
Junior ‘A’ Hurling Championship
Fethard made history last Saturday in Boherlahan when they claimed their first ever FBD Insurance County Junior ‘A’ Hurling Championship title with a 1-14 to 0-15 victory over Lattin Cullen. An excellent early goal from Matt Coen gave Fethard the perfect start and ultimately proved decisive in a tightly contested encounter. Little separated the sides throughout the opening half with Fethard holding a narrow 1-8 to 0-9 advantage at the interval. The second half followed a similar pattern with both teams trading scores. Fethard managed to maintain a three or four point cushion for much of the period but Lattin Cullen battled back to reduce the deficit to a single point in the closing minutes. Fethard held firm under pressure to secure a historic victory and their first county title at this grade. Noah O’Flynn was named Clubber Man of the Match while captain Ryan Walsh accepted the cup on behalf of his teammates. Fethard will now progress to the Munster Junior Club Hurling Championship Quarter Final where they will face the Clare champions in Clare on October 31st.
Junior ‘B’ Hurling Championship
The FBD Insurance County Junior ‘B’ Hurling Championship Semi Finals took place last Saturday setting up an all-North final. Newport booked their place in the decider with a 2-16 to 2-12 victory over Gortnahoe Glengoole. Gortnahoe Glengoole held a 1-10 to 0-8 advantage at half time but Newport produced a strong second half performance to turn the game around and secure their place in the Final. Ballina joined them in the decider following a 2-14 to 0-18 win over Killea. Ballina led 1-9 to 0-7 at the break but Killea fought back strongly and the sides were level entering the closing stages. Two late Ballina points ultimately secured their passage to the Final.The County Final will take place on Saturday October 24th at 1.30 pm in MacDonagh Park, Nenagh.
Junior ‘C’ Hurling Championship
History will be made this year with the staging of the first official Tipperary County Junior ‘C’ Hurling Championship Final which will see Ballina face Ballingarry. Ballina booked their place in the Final following a hard-earned 3-13 to 2-14 victory over Arravale Rovers last Sunday. Rovers led 2-4 to 0-8 at half time but Ballina battled back in a closely fought contest to secure a narrow victory. Ballingarry enjoyed a more comfortable passage to the decider defeating Loughmore-Castleiney 1-21 to 0-10. They made a strong start and held a commanding 1-9 to 0-3 advantage at the interval before completing a convincing win. The inaugural County Final will take place this coming Saturday at 3.00 pm in The Ragg.
2026 FBD Insurance County Football Championships
Senior Football Championship
The County Senior Football Final takes centre stage at FBD Semple Stadium this Sunday, 18th October at 4.00 pm with Clonmel Commercials facing Loughmore Castleiney. Similar to last Sunday’s Hurling Final, this weekend’s Football decider sees first meet third in the roll of honour. Clonmel Commercials lead the way with 22 titles while Loughmore Castleiney sit third with 16 titles to their name. The two clubs have dominated the championship in recent years, winning seven of the last eight titles with Commercials victorious in 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023 and 2025 while Loughmore Castleiney claimed honours in 2021 and 2024. In fact, apart from Moyle Rovers’ success in 2018, the two sides have shared the last 13 titles dating back to Thomas MacDonagh’s victory in 2011 with Commercials claiming eight and Loughmore Castleiney five. This Sunday’s encounter will be the 10th County Senior Football Final meeting between these great rivals, underlining the strength and consistency of both clubs over the decades. Commercials came out on top in 1948, 1956, 1990, 1994 and 2020, while Loughmore Castleiney triumphed in 1946, 1987, 2021 and 2024. With five victories for Commercials and four for Loughmore, the head to head record adds another dimension to this latest chapter in their rivalry. The winners will be the first recipients of the Philly Ryan Cup, which will be presented to the Tipperary County Senior Football Champions for the first time this Sunday. The cup was presented to the Tipperary County Board last month by the Ryan family and Clonmel Commercials GAA Club. It is fitting that Philly Ryan’s name will now have a permanent place in Tipperary football, with the trophy serving as a lasting tribute to a man whose contribution to the game will never be forgotten. The cup was presented by Philly’s wife Anna, daughters Amy and Katie and son Shane, alongside representatives of Clonmel Commercials, ensuring his legacy will continue to be honoured for generations to come.
The Tom Cusack Cup Final between Ballyporeen and Upperchurch Drombane will take place in Ballyporeen this Friday 16th at 7.45 pm.
Intermediate Football Championship
The FBD Insurance County Intermediate Football Championship Final is fixed for this Sunday 18th October at 1.30pm in FBD Semple Stadium. Killenaule and Golden Kilfeacle will face off with both clubs aiming to claim their second title at this grade. Killenaule’s previous success came in 2004 while Golden Kilfeacle last won the title in 1982. With more than two decades having passed since either club’s triumph both sides will be eager to end the long wait and add another county title to their roll of honour. Clonmel Og will stay at the Intermediate grade for 2027 after receiving a walkover from Moycarkey Borris in the Relegation Final – Moycarkey Borris will play in the Premier Junior grade in 2027.
Jubilee Team
Fethard’s 2001 County Senior Football Championship winning team and management will be honoured as this year’s Jubilee Team at Sunday’s County Finals in FBD Semple Stadium. The team will be presented to the crowd between the Senior and Intermediate Finals in recognition of their memorable achievement. Fethard claimed the County Title in 2001 following a 1-13 to 0-8 victory over Aherlow in the Final.
Premier Junior Football Championship
The Premier Junior Relegation Round 3 game took place last Saturday with Sean Treacys recording a 1-13 to 2-5 victory over JK Brackens. The result ensures that Sean Treacys will retain their Premier Junior status for 2027 while JK Brackens join Clonoulty Rossmore in being relegated to Junior grade.
Junior ‘A’ Football Championship
The Junior ‘A’ County Final will take place on Saturday 17th October at 4.00 pm in Bansha with Boherlahan Dualla facing Ballylooby Castlegrace. Boherlahan Dualla will be aiming to claim their third title at this grade, having previously triumphed in 1951 and 1996. Meanwhile, Ballylooby Castlegrace will be hoping to make history by securing their first ever Junior ‘A’ County Football title.
Junior ‘B’ Football Championship
The Semi Finals of the County Junior ‘B’ Football Championship will both take place this Saturday 17th October at 1.00 pm – Annacarty will host the clash of Upperchurch Drombane v Solohead while Thurles Gaels face Rosegreen in Dundrum (please note change of venue).
Weekend Information for Supporters
For this weekend’s games, supporters are reminded to check the Tipperary GAA website, app and social media channels for full fixture details and any updates. Supporters are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance through the Tipperary GAA website. Entry to all venues is by Tap & Go, but purchasing tickets beforehand will help avoid delays at the gate. Please allow extra time for parking and arrive early to ensure you are in place before throw in. A number of games will also be streamed live on Clubber for those unable to attend. Check Clubber for the full list of live fixtures and streaming details.
Minor Championships
The Minor ‘B’ Hurling and Football Championship finals took place last Saturday with Naomh Eoin and Knockmealdown Gaels celebrating County Title success.
In their first year as a combined side under the Naomh Eoin name, Shannon Rovers and Borrisokane enjoyed a memorable start by claiming the County Minor ‘B’ Hurling Championship title. They defeated the Mid combination of Moyne Templetuohy and Loughmore Castleiney by 2-16 to 2-11. Naomh Eoin led 1-10 to 1-7 at half time and extended their advantage with a second goal early in the second half. Their opponents responded with a late goal but Naomh Eoin held on to secure a five point victory. Captain Joseph Murphy accepted the cup on behalf of the victorious side.
Congratulations also to Knockmealdown Gaels (Fr Sheehys/Ballylooby Castlegrace), who claimed the County Minor ‘B’ Football Championship title following a 2-7 to 1-9 victory over Rockwell Rovers. Rockwell Rovers led 1-5 to 1-3 at half time, but a goal from Donnacha Hurley early in the second half put Knockmealdown Gaels in front. They defended their advantage for the remainder of the contest to secure the title. Captain Donnacha Reidy accepted the cup after the game.
The Minor ‘A’ Hurling Championship Final between St Mary’s and Newport took place on Tuesday 13th October at FBD Semple Stadium with the result unavailable at the time of writing. Attention now turns to the Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Final, which takes place this Saturday 17th October at 3.00 pm in Golden. Aherlow will face Moyle Rovers in a repeat of last year’s Final which Moyle Rovers won.
County Football Final Referees
The three County Football Finals will see referees from across the county take charge with Willie Fitzharris appointed for the County Senior Football Final. Derek O’Mahoney will referee the Intermediate Football Final while Seamus Delaney takes charge of the Junior ‘A’ Football Final. Tipperary GAA wishes Willie, Derek and Seamus the very best of luck as they officiate their respective finals this weekend.
Tipperary County Scór Na nÓg Final
The Tipperary Scór Na nÓg Final will take place on Friday November 6th (Venue TBC). Scór Na nÓg is for Under 17s on Jan 1st 2026 and is a wonderful opportunity for your club to engage in the cultural side of the GAA. Competitions range from dancing to singing to acting and question time. There is no minimum entry guidelines and we welcome all clubs from around the county. Should you wish to find out more information or to enter please email secretary.scor.tipperary@gaa.ie and we will be delighted to help you.
Tipperary GAA 50/50 Draw
The next Tipperary GAA 50/50 Draw will be held this coming weekend. Supporters can purchase tickets via the Tipperary GAA App or through the following link: member.clubspot.app/club/tipperary-gaa/fundraisers
Well done to last week’s winner Bernie Gleeson (Thurles) who won the €1,750 Jackpot.
Tipperary GAA Halloween Home Entertainment Giveaway
Tipperary GAA is running a Halloween Home Entertainment Giveaway with one lucky winner set to take home a fantastic entertainment package worth €500. The prize includes a 55″ LG UHD Television, ULTIMEA 5.1 Soundbar, Govee TV Backlight, Echo Show 5, Amazon Fire TV Stick, €50 Netflix Gift Card and a €50 Sweet Treats Voucher. The package has everything needed to transform the living room and enjoy the darker autumn and winter evenings. Entries can be made through the Tipperary GAA fundraising page at member.clubspot.app/club/tipperary-gaa/fundraisers with one winner taking home the complete package.
Schools Hurling
The Harty Cup commences this week with a number of Tipperary schools in action. On Tuesday 13th – Cashel Community School took on Tralee CBS while Our Lady’s Templemore faced St Flannan’s. Nenagh CBS face Midleton CBS on Thursday 15th at 2.00 pm in Kilmallock. Thurles CBS take on De La Salle on Friday 16th at 12.30 pm in Grangemockler.
Sympathy
Tipperary GAA wishes to extend its sincere sympathies to Tipperary Senior Hurling Coach Michael Bevans and his family on the passing of Michael’s father, Michael Senior, Ballymackey, Nenagh. May he Rest in Peace.
Michael Bevans – RIP
Tipperary GAA wishes to extend its sincere sympathies to Tipperary Central Council Representative Johnny Doyle of Holycross and his family on the sad passing of Johnny’s wife, Una. May she Rest in Peace.
Una Doyle – RIP
Tipperary GAA Scene
To include any item of interest in the Tipperary GAA Scene, please email the Tipperary GAA Communications Officer at communications.tipperary@gaa.ie
By Michael Quinn Wed 14th Oct
