Sorting time begins in Derry

THE 12 teams still in the hunt to get their hands on the John McLaughlin Cup will be shaved back this weekend with the penultimate round of group games in the Derry Senior Football Championship.

Sleacht Néill and Newbridge have won all three games to date inflicting the only defeats on All-Ireland champions Glen and Magherafelt respectively.

Of the rest, Lavey can count themselves unlucky to have just one win to their name after losing narrowly to Newbridge and Magherafelt, the latter defeat coming after an impressive second-half performance.

The game of the weekend comes in Group A where Kilrea host Swatragh at Pearse Park.

With Sleacht Néill fancied to see off Bellaghy and Glen favourites to overcome Dungiven, Saturday afternoon’s game in Kilrea stands out.

Swatragh have one win to their name and could take a step towards the quarter-final with a win against their neighbours.

For Kilrea, defeat could spell the end but a draw could give them a chance going into the final weekend.

Swatragh recovered from a poor performance against Sleacht Néill to push Glen all the way with Kilrea being in contention in all their games to date.

In Group B, Newbridge and Magherafelt are odds on to qualify. Below that, it’s a case of four into two doesn’t go.

Ballinascreen – who have just a draw with Loup to their name – will need to beat Magherafelt in Rossa Park this weekend.

Steelstown beat Ballinascreen but will need to take something from their trip to top of the table Newbridge.

The game of the weekend will be Loup’s visit to Lavey where they will need to come with the same desire they controlled Steelstown with.

On form, Lavey would be expected to take the third quarter-final spot with Loup, Ballinascreen and Steelstown battling for the other one. This weekend will tell more of how the story will actually unfold.