It is still all to play for in Down

WITH three games remaining in the Division One league, it looks like it’s going to come down to a two-horse race between the reigning champions Carryduff and championship kingpins Kilcoo.

The ball is pretty much in the court of Finnian Moriarty’s side at present as they lead the way by the minimum of margins, although both sides have won 12 of their 15 outings, with Carryduff having lost one less game.

Burren, who may or may not have All-Ireland winner Paddy Burns available this weekend, have an outside chance heading into the final rounds, but they are currently four points adrift. They take on Kilcoo this Friday evening, with the aim of closing that gap.

It’s a repeat of last year’s Senior Championship final clash, which the Magpies won in fairly convincing fashion and Karl Lacey’s side have been in terrific form of late, winning their last eight outings.

In fact, they haven’t lost since 17 May, when Burren battled through to win by three-points, and this weekend, Eoin McCartan’s side will have home advantage and will be keen to chalk up another victory over their rivals.

For Carryduff, they’re on home tuft as they take on Mayobridge and a win will see them take one step closer towards a league title. Mayobridge have experienced a tough campaign, and still aren’t safe from relegation.

Castlewellan have already fallen out of the top tier with just four-points to show for their efforts this season. They host Bredagh this weekend, who currently join them at the bottom of the table, but they are still battling it out for safety.

Clonduff could also find themselves dragged into a race to avoid relegation should they slip up against Warrenpoint in round 13 while Loughinisland and Ballyholland will also lock horns on Friday evening.

Three teams are chasing two promotion places in Division Two, with Saul (26 points), Bryansford (24) and RGU Downpatrick (23) all hoping to break into the top tier of league football.

Newry Shamrocks have been relegated to Division Three with three games remaining in the campaign, while Liatroim, last year’s Intermediate Championship winners, are second from bottom at the minute.

In Division Three, unbeaten Glenn can secure promotion on Friday night with their away game against Clann na Banna and will capture the league title should second placed Annaclone lose out to Ballymartin.

Darragh Cross have claimed the Division Four league crown after 11 rounds of action and Dromara will join them in Division Three next season.