Who would have picked these two teams to make the final? Even when the semi-finalists were knows you would have got good odds on this final pairing however both are there on excellent performances in the semi finals. There are now 60 minutes away from becoming the county champions for 2019. 

Tourlestrane had to win their semi final twice. Going in at halftime they lead 0-11 v 0-1 and it was fortunate for Cloonacool that that was the extent of the lead. Bailey, Walsh and Lundy were winning every ball kicked in and with a constant supply from Dunnes, O'Hara with McVeigh, Fallon and Molloy breaking up the wings at pace they were on top in all positions. Only for 2 excellent saves by Brennan the semi final could have been finished after 35 minutes. Then their inexperience and the lack of physicality came into play and they began to wilt even with the extra man. The decision to put the extra man into defence was detrimental to the teams long kicking and running style. However when the chips were down and Cloonacool leveled Tourlestrane kicked long and their speed, high skill level meant they could see out the victory. 

Michaels probably along with Coolera in the senior v Tubber, Bunninnadden v Curry in intermediate have caused the biggest shock in the Junior grade. A lot of the county saw this as Owenmore Gaels title but games against neighbours should never be taken for granted. There is local pride and putting one over the lads you will be meeting socially for the winter can never be discounted. The win over Gaels was fully deserved and the goals came at vital times but this was no smash and grab and there was no panic in the Michaels camp when Gaels came back at them in both halves. 

The lack of physicality of the Tourlestrane team with them being so young will have an affect on the result. Likewise their speed throughout the park and their hunger for the ball is a huge plus. Michaels will expect to win the kickouts with McTiernan, Carty, Clerkin and Mackey cleaning up the breaks. The tenacity of McGowan and Flanagan should provide Michaels with a platform to use Walsh in the scoring positions. Whilst no Tourlestrane team will lie down and their semi final victory was less of a shock expect Michaels to use their advantages of experience and in the tackle strenght. They also have some huge men to come in with Alan Taaffe able to score from any angle. Tourlestrane will need the Dunnes to step up to this and the Brennans and will Eamon O'Hara make an appearance. 

Expecting a tight game but that Michaels will pull through.