Our Intermediates made the long trip to Rathmore on Wednesday evening to play the locals in their second Group B fixture of this year's County Intermediate Championship. A win or, at the very least a share of the points, was targeted if our lads were to remain in real contention to qualify for the semi-final from this group but a stern test was expected from Rathmore, who posted a good score in their previous game against Kenmare Shamrocks.

Rathmore are to be complimented on their excellent facilities but, unfortunately, couldn't do anything about the cold and windy conditions which are becoming commonplace this Summer. The match, reffed by Seamus Mulvihill, was a close encounter in the first half. Lixnaw started brightly and managed to edge ahead before Robert O'Brien connected well to drive home the first goal. The visitors had created a decent lead in the first quarter but Rathmore were the more dominant in the second quarter and clawed back the gap before the half-time break.

The second half saw Lixnaw steadily take more control and a series of fine scores - including a couple of beauties from narrow angles out on the sidelines - allowed Lixnaw to pull away as the half wore on. The final margin of victory was 10 points and given how tight the second qualification spot may be to decide, this margin may yet be valuable. 

In the Group B table, Lixnaw have three points, one behind Kenmare and two ahead of Ballyheigue, who play Rathmore (0 points) in their final game.

The final Lixnaw group game is scheduled for Hermitage Park on the 17th July next against Kenmare Shamrocks, who have already two good wins in their campaign and are a real force this year. We hope for a great turnout to cheer on the lads as they battle to make a IHC semi-final again this year.