The opening game in the SFC resulted in a narrow win for Mt Leinster Rangers over Ballon by 1-7 to 1-6. This was a highly entertaining game between two sides who spared nothing and tore into the fray with abandon.

It wasn't the highest quality game but it was played with honesty and passion all through.

David Phelan was in outstanding form for Rangers with a fine display of fielding while Alan Kelly played with his usual class and style for Ballon with Peter Zerafa also very prominent.

The second game saw Old Leighlin dump Éire Óg out of the SFC and into a possible relegation battle, depending on results in the final round.

Three times Old Leighlin tore the Éire Óg defence asunder and three times the net rattled. Proving more clinical, Old Leighlin deservedly won this game having led by nine points at one point in the second half.

Éire Óg refused to throw in the towel however and fought back courageously to get within three points of the winners but Old Leighlin pushed out the gap with three excellent late points, the pick of which was a superb David Bambrick effort.

Éire Óg were then forced to go for goals and sub Derek Hayden went closest only to be denied by an incredible James Clarke save.

The final finished in highly embarrassing circumstances for Éire Óg when Eric McCormack was red carded after an altercation with a linesman while they will be deeply unhappy with player discipline after the whistle too.

Michael Meaney was a thorn in Éire Óg's side all through at full forward with Pat Hickey and David Bambrick not far behind in this crucial win for Old Leighlin. Next week's clash between MLR and themselves will determine who are group winners.

For Éire Óg Christy Bolger, Murtough Ware and Eric McCormack were most prominent.

Referee Pat Ahern was unable to turn out for the second half due to injury and was replaced by Pat Kehoe. With referees shipping criticism in some recent games both these referees did an excellent job, up with play, in control and on top of their game.

Rathvilly went all out to top their Group on score difference with a massive 4-25 to 0-3 win over St Patrick's in Kildavin. With an impressive +36 scoring difference the Rathvilly men are showing consistent form and a serious intent to put back to back titles together.