Division 1: Rathmore not safe yet

Reigning O’Donoghue Cup champions Rathmore have a nervy trip west on Sunday in the final round of the 2018 County League. The East Kerry club currently find themselves hovering two points above the drop zone and if results don’t go their way, they could find themselves in a relegation playoff with third-from-bottom Beaufort. Glenbeigh-Glencar and John Mitchels have already been relegated.

A draw against An Ghaeltacht in Gallarus would suffice for Rathmore as they look to secure their top-flight status for another year. It’s a must-win situation for Beaufort as they face the Killarney Legion in Derreen.

At the top of the table, Dr Crokes have long since confirmed their spot in the final and it looks like Kerins O’Rahilly’s will be joining them, although An Ghaeltacht are in position to pounce should the Tralee side fall at the final hurdle.

Rahilly’s host Dingle at Strand Road and a single point would be enough to confirm second place. Should they lose, however, An Ghaeltacht can catch them with victory over Rathmore. If both teams finish on 13 points, a playoff would be required.

Division 2: Kilcummin on brink of promotion

Second place Kilcummin are in a strong position to return to the top table of Kerry football as they prepare for their final league game of the season. The Intermediate champions, who have racked up 15 points to date, can guarantee promotion to Division 1 by defeating Kenmare at home.

Castleisland Desmonds and Na Gaeil are both a point back on 14 and they need wins against Austin Stacks and Glenflesk respectively to stay in contention. Stacks will finish first regardless of what happens on Sunday.

Division 3: Are Crokes’ second team set for second tier?

Dr Crokes’ second string could make history this weekend by gaining promotion to Division 2 of the County League. The B team are just outside the promotion places but with second place Brosna and third place St Senan’s facing each other in their final fixture, Crokes will be promoted if they beat Ballydonoghue in Ballydonoghue. A draw would guarantee at least a playoff.

It would be a remarkable achievement for the Crokes, especially when you consider the calibre of clubs currently in Division 2. Win on Sunday and the Crokes juniors could be competing in the same league as Glenflesk, John Mitchels and Milltown/Castlemaine in 2019.

Division 4: Firies could make it an East Kerry 1, 2 & 3

Gneeveguilla and Fossa have already confirmed their promotion to Division 3 and Firies will make it an impressive 1, 2 and 3 for East Kerry if they can get over the line by beating fourth place Tarbert at home. At the other end of the table, Beale and St Michael’s-Foilmore meet in a key relegation clash. Ballylongford and Cromane are down.

All matches are scheduled for 1pm on Sunday.

Pic: Eamonn Keogh.