PREVIEWS: Derry hurling scene enters the knock-out stages

THE club championship are now in full flow in all the counties across Ulster. We take a look ahead to another busy weekend of games as the heat begins to rise as final days get closer.

Here are the Derry hurling fixtures this weekend…

DERRY SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINALS

Sleacht Néill v Swatragh

Saturday, Owenbeg, 4.45pm

A MEETING of the last two winners. Swatragh were champions in 2012 before their parish rivals’ dominance. The champions were missing a few experienced players but accounted for Lavey. The ‘Swa recovered from losing to Ballinascreen to make the semi-final. A big challenge awaits.

Verdict: Sleacht Néill

Kevin Lynch’s v Ballinascreen

Sunday, Owenbeg, 2.45pm

KEVIN Lynch’s lost out in last season’s semi-finals and ended up hurling in the intermediate final. They played some excellent hurling in defeat to Sleacht Néill. Ballinascreen have progressed since winning the Ulster Junior last season. This is their latest barometer.

Verdict: Kevin Lynch’s

DERRY JUNIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINALS

Banagher v Na Magha

Saturday, Owenbeg, 3pm

BANAGHER find themselves in the situation of dropping from last year’s senior final to the junior grade. They are unable to compete in Ulster should they prevail. Na Magha have played in spells in games but face their most important game of the season.

Verdict: Banagher

Lavey v Eoghan Rua

Sunday, Owenbeg, 1pm

LAVEY hurled well for a half against Sleacht Néill and have some young players getting exposure to hurling at senior level. They’ll want to have been in the senior semi-finals. Eoghan Rua will face another tough battle ahead if as they aim to turn the corner.

Verdict: Lavey