By Michael McMullan

REIGNING champions Newbridge will open their defence of the John McLaughlin Cup against Kilrea when the Derry SFC kicks into action next month.

They are bidding for a third successive title with previous All-Ireland champions Glen also among the chasing pack.

Sleacht Néill, Magherafelt and Dungiven are also still in the mix for the league with two full rounds of games to play.

The championship will again follow the backdoor format. Newbridge were beaten in the first round last year by Dungiven before regrouping to retain the title.

Round 1 – August 28-30
Ballinderry v Ballinascreen
Glen v Banagher
Steelstown v Swatragh
Faughanvale v Lavey
Kilrea v Newbridge
Bellaghy v Dungiven
Glenullin v Loup
Sleacht Néill v Magherafelt

Round 2A – September 4-6
Winners Round 1 v Winners Round 1
Four games with the winners advancing to the quarter-finals.

Round 2B – September 4-6
Losers Round 1 v Losers Round 1
Four games with the winners advancing to Round 3.
Four losing teams will be eliminated from the championship.

Round 3 – September 25-27
Winners 2B v Losers 2A – Four games with the winners advancing to the quarter-finals.

Quarter-finals – October 2-4

Semi-finals – October 9-11

Final – October 24/25