AGHADRUMSEE look like they could be the dark horse in this year’s Intermediate Championship.

Since the arrival of Pat Cadden, Aghadrumsee the Magpies are a totally rejuvenated team and a strong panel of both experience and youth has given St Macartan’s a strong hand to pick from for the championship.

A memorable three point victory over Devenish in the first round of the championship last year gave the Magpies faithful hope that they were going to end their 30 year drought for championship with the strength and depth in his glory but Aghadrumsee fell to eventual winners Enniskillen Reflecting on last season, Pat Cadden feels that his players will be able embark to take on plenty this campaign of lessons.

“Last year’s championship was a great experience for the group. We beat a good Devenish team that has been in Division One for God knows how many years! In the semi final, it was just unfortunate that we came across a Gaels team that were destined for Division One and the Senior Championship.

“We would have gained so much through both experiences and know what to bring forward for this year.”

The Magpies have a very strong squad at their disposal. In Eddie Courtney, they have one of the finest forwards in the county.

He is deadly accurate from placed balls and is well able to split the posts from play if he finds a yard of space anywhere inside the opposition’s 45.

For many years, St Macartan’s have relied heavily on Courtney for scores but a newcomer to this year’s squad, Enda McCabe, has shown promise throughout the league.

Aodhan Durnien and Darren Kearns have also been very prominent on the scoresheet, and with the likes of Tommy O’Hara, Noel Beggan and Eugene Kearns, Aghadrumsee have some good defensive options.

Cadden is more than happy with the strength and depth of his squad.

“We have gained a few new youth players and we have got a chance to blood them already this year, which is good

“We have a good blend of youth and experience and on any day we can hold our own with anyone.”

First up is a crunch battle with Belcoo, who have had a strong league campaign and are a team with plenty of championship pedigree, last getting their hands on the Intermediate crown in 2017 and forcing Maguiresbridge to a semi-final replay last year.

“When facing Belcoo you always have a good battle on your hands. They are a well-established team and have challenged intermediate and senior finals within the last few years.