As far as I can remember Alan came on as a substitute last year against Imokilly but this will be his first start at senior championship level. He was a member of the 3 in a row U21 team of a few years ago so he has a wealth of experience to call on.

This has been a memorable week for James Bowles, called up the the Cork minor panel for the munster semi-final last night, he will be lining out at corner forward for his first championship outing. James has shown up very well in a number of league games this year and deserves his chance. James is the son of the legendary 'Barney' Bowles, who hurled for distinction for many years for Newtown.

Those unlucky not to be names on the team include Maurice Farrell and Diarmuid Naughton. Maurice played a blinder in a recent league game against the Rockies and Diarmuid has been showing impressive form in the last few weeks also. I'm sure these lads will still play a big part on Sunday as this is no longer a 15 man game.

Newtown will be up against it on Sunday. Minus the services of Donal Mulcahy and Ian Kelleher who are currently in Australia (get yer asses back quick lads !!) and with John Griffin now retired for Senior hurling, replacing such quality players in a small club is very difficult.

The losers of this tie will play Imokilly in the second round, a game I'm sure the lads will not want to face.

Lets hope Tom, Patsy and seanie 'pipe' have the lads in top shape for this one.

The Team Paul Morrissey, alan O'Brein, Brendan Mulcahy, John 'Loads' McCarthy, Gerry O'connor,Pat 'stud' Mulcahy', Philip Noonan, Alan O'Brein, Declan Murphy, Getty O'Connor,Mike Morrissey,JP King, Ben O'Connor, John O'Connor, James Bowles.