Mayo club among contenders as AIB anticipate big finals weekend

Mayo's Tooreen are going for ultimate glory this weekend when they face Tipperary's Upperchurch-Drombane in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Intermediate Hurling Championship final at Croke Park.

Despite trailing by two points at half-time in their semi-final against Éire Óg Carrickmore (Tyrone), Tooreen managed to pull things back and eventually won by 11 points to reach their second All-Ireland final in three years.

Upperchurch-Drombane, meanwhile, had to battle hard in their semi-final victory over Danesfort (Kilkenny). A two-point win secured their place in the final, with a decisive penalty save from goalkeeper Ciaran Shortt helping them get over the line.

The Tooreen v Upperchurch-Drombane game will throw-in at 5.15 p.m. on Saturday (January 10), following on from the the All-Ireland Junior Hurling Championship final between Easkey of Sligo and Kilbrittain of Cork, which starts at 3.15 p.m.

The AIB All-Ireland Junior and Intermediate Football Championship finals take place on Sunday (January 11), also in Croke Park. In the junior final, at 1.30 p.m., Clogher Éire Óg of Tyrone, who defeated Mayo's Kiltimagh in the semi-final, take on Ballymacelligott of Kerry. The intermediate final at 3.30 p.m. sees another Kerry club, An Ghaeltacht, take on Derry and Ulster champs Glenullin.

As proud sponsors of the GAA, LGFA and camogie All-Ireland club championships, AIB has dedicated this season to showcasing the truly unforgettable 'moments of the championship'. Throughout the championships, AIB has been celebrating these moments with monthly awards across its social channels, providing a fantastic opportunity for fans to engage directly and recognise the outstanding contributions of the players. These championships reveal where with every precise pass, tenacious tackle, and sensational score, there is a team fuelled by the unwavering passion of those who support them.

Speaking at the finals launch, AIB chief customer officer, Orlaith Ryan, commented: “AIB is immensely proud to be celebrating its 35th year of supporting the AIB GAA All-Ireland Club Championships, and it's truly special to see another season culminate in what promises to be a fantastic weekend of intermediate and junior club finals at Croke Park. We’ve been captivated by the journey so far, witnessing thrilling encounters – from those decided by the narrowest of margins to dominant semi-final performances.

“Now, each final is perfectly poised to showcase the incredible dedication, skill, and sheer passion that runs through every club and community involved. To witness these athletes, backed by their communities, take to the field is an inspiration to us all. We wish all the finalists the very best of luck this weekend.”

Also speaking at the launch, Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Jarlath Burns stated: “The AIB GAA All-Ireland intermediate and junior club finals are truly special fixtures in our calendar, bringing together the very best of our club game for what promises to be an exhilarating weekend in Croke Park. It's a testament to the incredible dedication of these players, their coaches, and the vibrant communities they represent, who have poured their hearts into reaching this stage.

“We are also delighted to acknowledge AIB's remarkable 35-year commitment to the GAA All-Ireland Club Championships, a partnership that continues to be foundational in celebrating the unique spirit and passion of Gaelic games at a local level. We extend our best wishes to all the teams competing for national honours.”

For behind the scenes action from the AIB Club Championships, follow @AIB_GAA on X/Twitter and Instagram, see the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AIBGAA), or log on to www.aib.ie/gaa.