Preview: Electric Ireland Sigerson Cup Final
UCC's Dan Peet in Electric Ireland Sigerson Cup action. Photo by Tyler Miller/Sportsfile
Electric Ireland Sigerson Cup Final
Wednesday February 11
UL v UCC, Croke Park, 7.35pm, TG4
By Cian O'Connell
The beauty of the Electric Ireland Sigerson Cup is that anything can happen.
Star studded panels doesn't always necessarily triumph in the prestigious competition. Teams that acquire momentum and confidence go far.
So, UL and UCC head for GAA headquarters heartened, believing that silverware can be attained. Undoubtedly, accomplished inter-county players, present and future, are liberally sprinkled throughout the UL and UCC ranks.
This match, on the grand stage, provides a further opportunity to illustrate potential. On the sideline, David Power and Paul O'Keeffe, accompanied by strong coaching set-ups, will be preparing for the next battle.
It has been a hectic month and a bit for these two outfits, but they've found a way to the Jones Road venue. Now, it is time to deliver in an eagerly anticipated decider.
Friday evening's epic triumph over Queen's University demonstrated UL's character and class. When UL required inspiration, Cian McHale struck 1-8, while another Mayo man, Frank Irwin, rifled over four critical points.
Nonetheless, the moment of the match, was Cathal Brosnan's rocket goal that sent the match to extra-time.
It was a vital intervention, while Tommy Walsh also supplied a splendid major for Power's charges.
UL manager David Power. Photo by Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile
Conal Dawson and Brian McNamara are others, who have contributed to UL's campaign, but Power, ever the competitor, will know that a demanding assignment looms.
UL have gone extremely close to Sigerson glory, losing deciders in 2022 and 2023, including the latter against Wednesday's opponents, UCC.
With 24 Sigerson victories, UCC are second in the roll of honour, behind the bluebloods, UCD, who have claimed 34 titles.
At the penultimate stage, UCC delivered a performance of substance and style to overcome University of Galway at the Mardyke.
Ruairi Murphy's early goal was a key score, while Cormac Dillon showed his ability, notching four points in a tight and tense encounter.
Having already dethroned DCU Dóchas Eireann, UCC's consistency has been a real feature of the 2026 Sigerson.
Dan Peet, Michael McSweeney and Conor Daly have been influential performers for UCC. O'Keeffe, a highly regarded and experienced figure with St Finbarr's, and his promising collection of players, will relish the challenge ahead.
Be prepared for a long and lively evening. This could go the distance.
