By Michael McMullan

REIGNING league champions Newbridge have three games left but retaining the title is out of their own hands.

Defeat last weekend to Sleacht Néill saw them drop to third place, a point behind the Emmet’s in second spot and two points behind leaders Glen.

Since Derry’s exit from the All-Ireland race, only brothers Eamon and Sean Young have returned to club action.

Conor Doherty and Paudi McGrogan have been rested. They’ve also missed Conor McGrogan, Callum McGrogan and Conor McAteer in different games.

Glen’s defeat last weekend at the hands of Lavey was only their second loss of the campaign, having lost to neighbours Sleacht Néill.

The Watties travel to a Limavady team in needs of point this weekend with further games against Ballinderry, Swatragh and bottom of the table Faughanvale.

Sleacht Néill are managed by former Cuala All-Ireland winning manager Austin O’Malley this year.

They don’t have a game this weekend but have a refixture with Bellaghy later this month before they’ll complete the campaign against Ballinderry, Glenullin and Swatragh.

Loup made an excellent start to the season and are joint third with Newbridge, having played some fresh attacking football under new manager Maxi Curran.

After a slow start, Lavey are climbing the table and impressed in last week’s victory in Glen.

James Sargent kicked his first scores at adult club level having already impressed on his Derry debut.

Brothers Matthew and Conor Downey have been additions to the squad since their switch back from Antrim side St Brigid’s.

Manager Shay Murrin has added fellow Donegal native Paddy Campbell to their management team.

There is a return to the squad for Eamon McGill after his return from overseas with talented minor player Oisin Mulholland adding to their attacking punch.

The draws for the football and hurling championships will take place on Thursday, July 22.