Championship heats up as teams square off

ANTRIM

SHC Group One

Ballycastle v St John’s

(Sunday, Corrigan Park, 2pm)

St John’s enjoyed a thrilling one-point win over Rossa last weekend thanks to Michael Bradley’s late, late point. Bradley hit three points from play over the hour, as did Conor Johnston. Ballycastle earned an encouraging draw with holders Dunloy, a game they could have won. Free-taker Ciaran Clarke helped himself to a dozen points and they can continue their good start here.

Verdict: Ballycastle

Dunloy v Rossa

(Sunday, Dunloy, 2pm)

Champions Dunloy needed a late Keelan Molloy score to earn a draw with Ballycastle last week, and manager Gregory O’Kane will be expecting better here. His Rossa equivalent, Colly Murphy, will be wondering how his side didn’t take anything from their game with St John’s. There were plenty of encouraging signs though and this could be another close one.

Verdict: Dunloy

SHC Group Two

St Gall’s v Loughgiel

(Sunday, St Gall’s, 2pm)

St Gall’s had a mightily impressive win over Naomh Éanna in round one with Conor Burke helping himself to two goals as they finished strongly to take the points. Loughgiel earned a good win over Cushendall, but they did their best to throw away a point. They were nine points clear and cruising, but ended up needing the woodwork to help them out as Conor McAllister’s last-gasp penalty rebounded off the post.

Verdict: Loughgiel

Cushendall v Naomh Éanna

(Sunday, Cushendall, 2pm)

Cushendall nearly pulled off a great comeback draw against Loughgiel but goalkeeper Conor McAllister, who had scored a goal from a free moments before, saw his penalty hit the post in the final seconds. Naomh Éanna were second best against St Gall’s and this looks like a huge ask for Dee Ross and Jamie Curran’s side.

Verdict: Cushendall

IHC Group One

Carey Faugh’s v Patrick Sarsfield’s

(Sunday, St Patrick’s Park, 2pm)

Carey Faugh’s found a way past Creggan last week in what was a hard-hitting affair. This will be Patrick Sarsfield’s first competitive game of the season, and that will be a worry as they are bound to still have some ring-rust.

Verdict: Carey Faugh’s

IHC Group Two

Glen Rovers v Tír na nÓg

(Sunday, Glen Rovers, 2pm)

A slow start cost Glen Rovers dearly last weekend in their three-point loss to St Brigid’s. Eamon McCaughan and Johnny McErlain were their goal-scores in the 2-13 to 2-10 loss. Tír na nÓg are starting their championship season after a 3-17 to 2-13 win over Gort na Móna in the league.

Verdict: Tír na nÓg

IHC Group Three

Glenariffe v Gort na Móna

(Sunday, Glenariffe, 2pm)

Glenariffe need to bounce back after their loss to Cloney Gaels last week. Alex O’Boyle did perform well on frees and the Gorts will need to be clean in their tackling. They face a tough task.

Verdict: Glenariffe

JHC Group One

St Paul’s v Davitt’s

(Sunday, Pairc Naomh Pól, 2pm)

This is one of the big games in the Junior Championship this weekend as Davitt’s aim to compete with Division Three outfit St Paul’s. They lost to Latharna Óg last weekend despite Don Whelan’s best efforts as the visitors finished strongly. St Paul’s hit five goals against Shane O’Neill’s, four of those coming in the second half.

Verdict: St Paul’s

Latharna Óg v Shane O’Neill’s

(Sunday, Larne, 2pm)

Latharna Óg hit two late goals (Conor Matthews and Cathal McKillop) to earn an impressive win away to Davitt’s last weekend. Shane O’Neill’s were right in the game with St Paul’s at half-time as they trailed by just two points, but their opponents raced away after the break. The Glenarm men really need a result here, but it will not come easy.

Verdict: Shane O’Neill’s

JHC Group Two

Con Magee’s v Lamh Dhearg

(Sunday, Páirc an Athar Mhic Fhinn, 2pm)

Con Magee’s can take control of Group Three with a victory following their win over St Teresa’s last weekend when Sean McKay and Niall Donnelly shared the bulk of the scoring. This is Lamh Dhearg’s first group game.

Verdict: Con Magee’s

JHC Group Three

Loch Mór Dál gCais v St Agnes’

(Sunday, TBC, 2pm)

Loch Mór Dál gCais suffered a heavy defeat last weekend against Cushendun and will need a better performance to avoid dropping into the plate competition. They’ll look to Michael Pearse McDonnell and Darragh Turley to get the necessary scores. St Agnes’ only hit 1-3 in their league loss to Davitt’s, their only competitive game this season, and they could be caught cold.

Verdict: Loch Mór Dál gCais

JHC Group Four

All Saint’s v Ardoyne

(Sunday, Ballymena, 2pm)

All Saint’s played well against Rasharkin last week but still came up seven points short – although that deficit doesn’t reflect how competitive the game was. Damian Gillan was their main scoring threat and he is the man Ardoyne must try and shut down. This is the Belfast side’s first outing.

Verdict: All Saint’s

ARMAGH

SFC quarter-finals

Madden v Pearse Og

(Saturday, Athletic Grounds, 7pm)

Madden were the big winners last weekend as they dumped out rivals Ballymacnab, who had reached the last two county finals, after a fine second-half performance. Pearse Og looked in good shape against Cullyhanna following Anto Duffy’s goal, but they had to hold on at the end as Sean Sutton (red card) and Conor Toner (black card) left them short on numbers. They managed to survive though.

Verdict: Madden

Mullaghbawn v Crossmaglen

(Sunday, Athletic Grounds, 1.30pm)

Crossmaglen eased past one south Armagh neighbour in Silverbridge last weekend and should be equally as comfortable against a young Mullaghbawn side. Stephen Kernan’s side did start slowly against the ‘Bridge, but goals from Oisin O’Neill, Tony Kernan and Aaron Kernan kept them right. Mullaghbawn went one better when hitting four in their win over Annaghmore, but this is a huge step up.

Verdict: Crossmaglen

Armagh Harps v Killeavy

(Sunday, Athletic Grounds, 5.30pm)

Killeavy look set to be without the suspended Donal O’Neill while Ciaron O’Hanlon (hamstring) is another doubt. They needed extra-time to get past Grange in a physical affair, and Neil Coulter’s men will be focusing on recovery this week. Armagh Harps were far too good for St Peter’s on a day when youngsters Conor Lavery, Lorcan Coulter and Oisin McGurgan made their championship debuts.

Verdict: Killeavy

Maghery v Clann Eireann

(Monday, Athletic Grounds, 7.30pm)

Maghery were expecting a real battle with league leaders Dromintee but their opponents were woefully under par as Finnian Moriarty’s men earned a four-point win. Team captain David Lavery and his older brother James offered them plenty of control, but they can expect a firmer challenge against the Lurgan side. Granemore are the masters of one-point wins, but were on the wrong side of it this time as Clann Eireann came through thanks to goals from Daniel Magee and Barry McCambridge.

Verdict: Maghery

IFC first round

An Port Mor v Tullysaran

(Friday, Abbey Park, 7pm)

An Port Mor welcomed Jack McQuade back last week in their draw with Ballyhegan and they will need everyone back if they are to turn over Tullysaran, who have started the IFL A season with three wins from four.

Verdict: Tullysaran

Shane O’Neill’s v Clan na Gael

(Friday, Pearse Og, 7pm)

This is undoubtedly the tie of the round, and it carries extra spice after their recent league match was abandoned. Stefan Campbell is key to the Lurgan side’s chances, while Shane McPartlan is another potential match-winner. Shane’s are hurting from last year’s final loss and they can take a big scalp.

Verdict: Shane O’Neill’s

Ballyhegan v Whitecross

(Saturday, Grange, 3pm)

Whitecross have been without a number of players so far in the league, and Mark Shields remains an injury doubt. Ballyhegan have endured a rough start to the season and their championship campaign should end here.

Verdict: Whitecross

Sarsfields v Culloville

(Saturday, Abbey Park, 3pm)

Sarsfields are the in-form team in intermediate football and are heavily fancied to progress. Culloville always have a kick in them in the championship, but they are not blessed with massive numbers and will likely be overpowered by the Highmoss men.

Verdict: Sarsfields

Clonmore v Wolfe Tones

(Saturday, St Peter’s, 6pm)

Both these sides are pushing for promotion from IFLB but Clonmore were heavily beaten at home to Carrickcruppen last weekend. The Tones have Finnian Moriarty playing a part, and his experience could be crucial.

Verdict: Wolfe Tones

Collegeland v Carrrickcruppen

(Sunday, Ballymacnab, 1pm)

Carrickcruppen’s young guns have been shooting the lights out and now look a safe bet in what had appeared a 50-50 game when first drawn out. Collegeland are the reigning junior champions though in the McGeary clan they have a set of players who can produce some great performances.

Verdict: Carrickcruppen

Tir na nOg v St Paul’s

(Sunday, Clann Eireann, 2pm)

Just one position separates these sides in the league but St Paul’s do at least have some points on the board. This should be a tight encounter, but the Lurgan side should find a way through.

Verdict: St Paul’s

Keady v Middletown

(Sunday, Ballycrummy, 4pm)

These two sides have a rich history on the hurling field, and they will know each other very well given the high volume of dual players on both squads. Former Crossmaglen man Johnny Murtagh is in charge of Middletown and the players have been impressed.

Verdict: Middletown

JFC round one

Clady v Belleek

(Friday, Cullyhanna, 7pm)

Belleek produced a brutal second-half performance against Lissummon last week but Garrett Thornton’s side should still be too strong for a struggling Clady outfit.

Verdict: Belleek

Corrinshego v Mullabrack

(Friday, Newtown, 7pm)

Both these sides are languishing at the wrong end of the Junior League table but Corrinshego do at least have some experience in the bank having reached the final a couple of years back. Mullabrack continue to take steps forward after their recent reformation.

Verdict: Corrinshego

Eire Og v Lissummon

(Sunday, Keady, 12 noon)

Eire Og are one of the favourites for the Junior title, but this is a tricky start. They have a mean defence, and that could be the difference here.

Verdict: Eire Og

Killeavy v Dorsey Emmett’s

(Sunday, Whitecross, 1.30pm)

You can never be too sure what sort of Killeavy outfit will show up in the championship, but Dorsey will still be expecting to progress here. It should be close though.

Verdict: Dorsey Emmett’s

O’Hanlon’s v Crossmaglen

(Sunday, Silverbridge, 5pm)

The Poyntzpass men have made a promising start to the league season but with the likes of Mickey McNamee, Paul McKeown and Stephen Finnegan in their ranks, Cross should be too powerful.

Verdict: Crossmaglen

CAVAN

SFC round three

Kingscourt v Laragh United

(Friday, Edwin Carolan Community Park, 8.15pm)

Kingscourt managers David Lennon and Derek Walsh said that the atmosphere in the camp pre-championship had been great, and they have brought that onto the pitch with two wins. Laragh are currently bottom of the table and another loss here would open up the possibility of a swift return to the intermediate ranks.

Verdicr: Kingscourt

Mullahoran v Castlerahan

(Friday, Kingspan Breffni, 8.15pm)

A 1-18 tally against Shercock and 4-12 against Lacken, Castlerahan are purring in attack. Mullahoran had done likewise in their opening win against Laragh, as they hit 3-15, but Cavan Gaels kept them to just 1-4 in round two.

Verdict: Castlerahan

Cavan Gaels v Ramor United

(Saturday, St Matthew’s Park, 5pm)

It’s easy to spot the big game of the weekend as these two put their 100 percent records on the line. Ramor squeezed through their games against Gowna and Shercock while Kieran Donnelly’s side edged past Killygarry in their first outing. They were much more comprehensive winners against Mullahoran last time out.

Verdict: Cavan Gaels

Lacken v Crosserlough

(Saturday, Sheelin Park, 5pm)

Adrian Smith scored the goal as Crosserlough made it two wins from two against Laragh last weekend. Lacken have lost both games to date and really need some sort of result.

Verdict: Draw

Killygarry v Gowna

(Sunday, Naomh Fionnan, 2pm)

Killygarry sit on zero points when they easily could have been on four. They can’t get distracted by that, and if they play to their potential they should get off the mark here. Gowna have a point to their name having drawn with Lavey.

Verdict: Killygarry

Shercock v Lavey

(TBC)

Shercock have managed just 0-19 in their two games to date, and that is a big concern. Lavey hit 1-15 last time out in their draw with Gowna, and their attacking prowess should see them home.

Verdict: Lavey

IFC round three

Ramor United v Drumgoon

(Friday, O’Raghallaigh Park, 8.15pm)

Drumgoon started with a high-scoring draw with Killinkere while Ramor conceded four goals – and scored four themselves – in their nine-point loss to Belturbet,

Verdict: Drumgoon

Cuchulainn’s v Cornafean

(Saturday, Kingspan Breffni, 4pm)

Cuchulainn’s are aiming to bounce back from their loss to Ballyhaise while Cornafean have lost their first two games by three points.

Verdict: Cuchulainn’s

Killinkere v Arva

(Saturday, Athletic Grounds, 4pm)

Conal Sheridan and Kevin Boucher did their best for Arva in their round one game with Ballinagh, but they still lost out by a point. Killinkere opened with a 2-12 to 2-12 draw with Drumgoon.

Verdecit: Killinkere

Bailieborough v Belturbet

(Sunday, Kingspan Breffni, 1pm)

B is the letter in the IFC as the top six teams all have that at the start of their club name. These two are amongst them having won their first game. Expect a close battle.

Verdict: Bailieborough

Killeshandra v Ballyhaise

(Sunday, Kingspan Breffni, 4pm)

The pressure us on Killeshandra after their opening loss to Bailieborough. Ballyhaise, meanwhile, fought to victory against Cuchulainn’s.

Verdict: Ballyhaise

Ballinagh v Ballymachugh

(Sunday, Dr Plunkett Memorial Park, 4pm)

Both these sides had narrow opening round wins, Kevin Smith helping Ballinagh to a narrow win over Arva while Ballymachugh edged out Cornafean thanks to two goals.

Verdict: Ballinagh

Drumlane v Cootehill

(Sunday, Kingspan Breffni, 7pm)

Michael Owens and Daryl McGurren hit early goals to help Drumlane to a win over Cornafean last week. Cootehill are still looking for their first points after losing a thriller to Butlersbridge.

Verdict: Cootehill

JFC round two

Mountnugent v Kill Shamrocks

(Friday, Mullahoran, 8.15pm)

This is the first game for Barry Crowe’s Mountnugent and Kill Shamrocks. Mountnugent made the knock-out stages last year and should open with a win.

Verdict: Mountnugent

Shannon Gaels v Knockbride

(Saturday, O’Connell Park, 5pm)

There is a lot of expectation surrounding Larry Reilly’s Knockbride, but they are coming up against another heavyweight in Shannon Gaels. Who knows? Maybe this won’t be the last time they meet in the competition.

Verdict: Draw

Redhills v Templeport

(Saturday, Ballyconnell, 5pm)

Templeport blew Maghera away last weekend with Eoghan Martin, Eoin McCaffrey and Benjamin Kelly amongst the goals. Redhills should be much more competitive.

Verdict: Templeport

Drung v Drumalee

(Sunday, Emmett Park, 1pm)

Drung were level with Swanlinbar late on in their opener but conceded two late scores. They can respond against Sean Pierson’s Drumalee.

Verdict: Drung

Kildallan v Munterconnaught

(Sunday, Terry Coyle Park, 1pm)

Munterconnaught will be fancied to open their group stage with a win, but Kildallan, under the guidance of Emmett Curry, can not be taken lightly.

Verdict: Munterconnaught

Swanlinbar v Denn

(Sunday, St Felim’s Park, 5pm)

No Gearoid McKiernan (now with Cavan Gaels) but Swanlinbar did open their championship campaign with a win over Drung, Darren McTeggart and Dillon O’Brien landing the late winning scores. This should be another tight one.

Verdict: Swanlinbar

DERRY

SHC Group A

Na Magha v Sleacht Néill

(Wednesday, Na Magha, 8pm)

Sleacht Néill have been ruthless to date and the return of Jerome McGuigan from suspension provides even more threat. Karl McKaigue is out for the year after undergoing surgery on his Achilles’ tendon. Deaglan Foley will lead the Na Magha scoring charge and this could be a tough evening’s work, even if Sleacht Néill rest some players.

Verdict: Sleacht Néill

SHC Group B

Swatragh v Banagher

(Saturday, Swatragh, 1pm)

It’s been a tough campaign for both of these sides but the winner here will have their hopes revived. Both sides have draw with Coleraine and lost to Dungiven. It should be close, but Swatragh may just edge it.

Verdict: Swatragh

DONEGAL

SFC round three

Naomh Conaill v Termon

(Friday, Davy Brenna Memorial Park, 7.30pm)

Last year’s Ulster finalists Naomh Conaill have picked up where they have left off. They have scored a combined 3-38 in their wins over Ardara and Milford and have conceded just 0-11 in the process. It’s been hard lines for Fancie Friel’s Termon, and their mood wasn’t helped by the non-awarding of a penalty in last week’s four-point loss to Bundoran was Daire McDaid was brought down. After consultation with his umpires, the referee instead awarded a free instead.

Verdict: Naomh Conaill

Four Masters v Dungloe

(Saturday, Four Masters, 2pm)

Both these sides have lost their opening two fixtures, so the loser here is in real bother. They both suffered narrow losses last week, Four Masters losing to Glenswilly by four points, with Kevin McBrearty also missing a penalty in the 50th minute, and Dungloe coming up a goal short against Sean MacCumhaill’s. Home advantage could swing this the way of Four Masters.

Verdict: Four Masters

St Naul’s v Gaoth Dobhair

(Saturday, Páirc Gearóid O’Gallachói, 4pm)

St Naul’s have won one and lost one so far, but they will do well to get something against an in-form Gaoth Dobhair side. The 2018 Ulster champions hit 3-13 against Killybegs last weekend with Daire O’Baoill, Odhran MacNiallais and Cian Mulligan all finding the net. They should record another comfortable enough win here.

Verdict: Gaoth Dobhair

Sean MacCumhaill’s v Glenfin

(Saturday, Sean MacCumhaill’s, 7.30pm)

These rivals have both won their opening two fixtures so there is sure to be a firecracker on Saturday evening. The performance of Gerard Ward in Glenfin’s win over St Naul’s will live long in the memory of their fans, and he will lead their charge this weekend. MacCumhaill’s look a very balanced outfit this year and they may give the Ward man-marking job to Christopher Gallagher.

Verdict: Draw

Bundoran v Milford

(Sunday, Gaelic Park, 2pm)

Bundoran got off the mark last weekend with a four-point win in Termon. County man Jamie Brennan was the star of the show, despite missing a penalty. Milford were much improved last week as they lost by a goal to St Michael’s. Indeed if it wasn’t for a masterclass from Colm McFadden (he scored 1-9), they surely would have taken something from the game.

Verdict: Bundoran

St Michael’s v Ardara

(Sunday, St Michael’s, 3pm)

Age is just a number for Colm McFadden as he tore Milford apart last week, with 1-5 of his 1-9 tally coming from play. Martin McElhinney was also very effective as they made it two wins from two. Ardara are at the other end of the table having lost two from two. Kevin Whyte will miss this one through suspension.

Verdict: St Michael’s

Kilcar v Glenswilly

(Sunday, Kilcar, 4pm)

This is a repeat of the 2016 final and Glenswilly will again be aiming for a surprise result. Kilcar are on three points and their opponents two, but the former will be wondering how they didn’t close out last week’s fixture with St Eunan’s. Michael Murphy was imperious for Glenswilly last weekend as they claimed a hard-fought win over Four Masters.

Verdict: Kilcar

Killybegs v St Eunan’s

(Sunday, Killybegs, 6pm)

A total of 1-12 across two games speaks volumes of where the problems lie for Killybegs, and they really need to find their shooting boots here. St Eunan’s showed great spirit to fight back for a draw with Kilcar, and Brian McIntyre will surely come into the first 15 after a great cameo from the bench. Niall O’Donnell is set to miss the match through suspension, so the two will likely swap.

Verdict: St Eunan’s

IFC round three

Naomh Muire v Naomh Colmcille

(Friday, The Banks, 8pm)

Naomh Muire are moving very well and hit another two goals to see off Naomh Ultan last week. After an opening day win, Naomh Colmcille were very disappointing against Malin last week.

Verdict: Naomh Muire

Buncrana v Naomh Ultan

(Saturday, Buncrana, 7.30pm)

Naomh Ultan have hit 0-10 in their two games and that has cost them dearly. Buncrana, by contrast, have been scoring freely – and that shouldn’t stop here.

Verdict: Buncrana

Red Hugh’s v Malin

(Sunday, Pairc Aodh Rua, 3pm)

Malin powered past Naomh Colmcille last weekend and racked up 1-18 in the process. Paul McLaughlin scored their goal. Red Hugh’s are struggling badly and really need to make home form count here.

Verdict: Malin

Aodh Ruadh v Cloughaneely

(Sunday, Father Tierney Park, 3pm)

Only a point separates these sides and this should be a real battle between two clubs with ambitions of going deep in the tournament. Oisin Rooney was the Aodh Ruadh goalscorer in their win over Naomh Brid in round two.

Verdict: Aodh Ruadh

Naomh Columba v Fanad Gaels

(Sunday, Pairc na nGael, 3pm)

Naomh Columba thought they had done enough to beat Cloughaneely last week, but their opponents kicked a leveling score at the death. Aaron Doherty scored a hat-trick for the side. Fanad Gaels have won one and lost one, and defeat here would leave them sweating.

Verdict: Naomh Columba

Naomh Brid v Burt

(Sunday, Paic Naomh Brid, 3pm)

Naomh Brid’s season is not going to plan and another loss here would compound things. They have a great chance here against a Burt side that has managed half a dozen points in each of their games.

Verdict: Naomh Brid

JFC round three

Na Rossa v Downings

(Saturday, Na Rossa, 5pm)

Downings hit an amazing 11 goals against Robert Emmet’s last week, and while there will be nothing like that again here – they should still win.

Verdict: Downings

Robert Emmet’s v Letterkenny Gaels

(Saturday, Robert Emmet’s, 7.30pm)

It was a chastising first round for Robert Emmet’s as they conceded 11-14 to Downings last week, so restoring some pride is the key aim against the Gaels.

Verdict: Letterkenny Gaels

Naomh Padraig v Urris

(Sunday, Maurice McMenamin Memorial Park, 3pm)

Both these sides opened up with wins, but it’s the hosts who should get back on track.

Verdict: Naomh Padraig

Convoy v Pettigo

(Sunday, Convoy, 3pm)

Convoy have won one and lost one whole Pettigo are preparing for their first game in the competition. The home side should be more up to speed.

Verdict: Convoy

DOWN

SFC round one

Ballyholland v Darragh Cross

(Thursday, Kilcoo, 7.30pm)

It will be a huge day for Darragh Cross as they prepare to move into the Senior Championship. Manager Paul Murphy said that it would be a young side that takes to the field against Ballyholland. The Harps reached the last four in 2019 and save their best football for the championship.

Verdict: Ballyholland

Rostrevor v RGU Downpatrick

(Friday, Castlewellan, 6.30pm)

These two have had some tough, physical battles in recent years and expect more of the same here. Pete McGrath is still in charge of Rostervor while Downpatrick have appointed Kevin Gracey and Aidan Robinson.

Verdict: RGU Downpatrick

Mayobridge v Kilcoo

(Friday, Páirc Esler, 7.30pm)

All-Ireland finalists Kilcoo are set for a tough examination against Ciaran McKeever’s Mayobridge. The Magpies have recently welcomed back Darragh O’Hanlon while the ‘Bridge have lost Conor Garvey and Cathal Magee to retirement. This game will be screened live by TG4.

Verdict: Kilcoo

Castlewellan v Bredagh

(Saturday, Darragh Cross, 2.30pm)

It’s been a tough start to the season for Frank Dawson’s Castlewellan, and they will face a Bredagh side that will be up for it. Daniel Morgan suffered a cruciate injury recently and the Town are in danger here.

Verdict: Bredagh

Longstone v Loughinisland

(Saturday, Downpatrick, 5.30pm)

These two know each other very well having moved between the divisions together and being paired in the championship arena. Loughinisland have held the upper hand but Longstone, under new boss Benny Coulter, are keen to change the script.

Verdict: Loughinisland

Bryansford v Glenn

(Sunday, Páirc Esler, 3pm)

Steven Poacher is in charge of Bryansford and has been very impressed with the application to date. Glenn, Intermediate winners last season, are a real dogged team though and with Shay McCartan on board, they have a real chance.

Verdict: Bryansford

Warrenpoint v Burren

(Sunday, Páirc Esler, 7.30pm)

Warrenpoint are out to go one step further than last year when they narrowly lost the final to Kilcoo. Alan Davidson has come out of retirement. Burren have introduced a number of young stars to their side over the last two seasons and Gearoid Adams has been added to their backroom team. Gerard McGovern is back from abroad.

Verdict: Burren

Carryduff v Clonduff

(Monday, Páirc Esler, 7.45pm)

Very little separated these sides in last year’s championship and it’s likely to be more of the same. Carryduff have won the last three Down U-21 titles and are a real emerging force. Clonduff will look to the O’Hagans and the Carrs to help them pass this tough assignment, but a surprise result could be on the cards.

Verdict: Carryduff

IFC round one

Dromara v St John’s

(Thursday, Ballykinlar, 7pm)

Dromara have been scoring plenty of goals in their Division Four games to date, but St John’s are a formidable side. St John’s will be without the injured Conor Morgan for this derby.

Verdict: St John’s

Newry Shamrocks v Atticall

(Thursday, Newcastle, 7pm)

The Shamrocks made it all to last year’s final and out up a good showing against Glenn. That sort of experience should give them the edge in games like these.

Verdict: Newry Shamrocks

Annaclone v Bright

(Friday, Liatroim, 8pm)

Bright have been posting some big tallies in the league, including scores of 2-16 and 4-15, but Annaclone should be comfortable enough.

Verdict: Annaclone

Laitroim v Saval

(Saturday, Clonduff, 4.30pm)

Saval have lost stand-in goalkeeper Kevin McCarthy to an ankle injury while Pat Havern is also a doubt. A youthful Laitroim have hit two goals in every game this year, and they could raise a few more green flags in Hilltown.

Verdict: Liatroim

An Riocht v Teconnaught

(Saturday, Newcastle, 5.30pm)

Teconnaught are a quickly-improving side but An Riocht are somewhat of a championship specialist in Down. The honours should go the way of the Kingdom.

Verdict: An Riocht

Saul v Ballymartin

(Sunday, Mayobridge, 2pm)

Ronan McCartan took on Saul a year ago last week and they have made super progress. They are favourites here against Ballymartin.

Verdict: Saul

Drumgath v Clann na Banna

(Sunday, Ballyholland, 5pm)

Kieran Maguire holds the key to Clann na Banna’s chances of winning this derby encounter. Packie Downey is back with Drumgath after a spending time with Bryansford.

Verdict: Drumgath

St John, Bosco v Tullylish

(Monday, Burren, 8pm)

Bosco have lost both their league games this season and it looks likely to be three defeats on the trot against Tullylish.

Verdict: Tullylish

JFC round one

St Paul’s v Mitchel’s

(Thursday, Drumaness, 7.30pm)

Aughlisnafin v Ardglass

(Friday, Liatroim, 6.30pm)

Aughlisnafin have started the season well, including earning a notable draw with Saval, and in the likes of Adam Garland and Oran Flanagan they have some real talent. Ardglass have scored 6-30 in their last two games.

Verdict: Aughlisnafin

Aghaderg v Drumaness

(Sunday, Bright, 2pm)

Drumaness have designs on going all the way and they should have little problem in getting over the challenge of Aghaderg.

Verdict: Drumaness

Dundrum v East Belfast

(Sunday, Bright, 4pm)

A historic occasion for East Belfast as they play their first Junior Championship game, but it’s set to be a losing start against Dundrum.

Verdict: Dundrum

Glasdrumman v St Michael’s

(Monday, Burren, 6.30pm)

Connaire Harrison will spearhead the Glasdrumman challenge and he should cause havoc against St Michael’s.

Verdict: Glasdrumman

SHC round two

Ballygalget v Portaferry

(Sunday, Ballygalget, 4pm)

Padraig Doran scored heavily for Portaferry in their narrow loss to Ballycran, with the side also playing Bredagh last night. Ballygalget have already defeated the Cherryvale men and played Ballycran last night.

Verdict: Portaferry

Ballycran v Bredagh

(Tuesday, Ballycran, 7pm)

Connor Woods has been in great free-taking form for Ballycran, who played Ballygalget yesterday. Bredagh continue to improve, but this is a big ask.

Verdict: Ballycran

MONAGHAN

SFC Group One

Donaghmoyne v Clontibret

(Saturday, Donaghmoyne. 4pm)

Donaghmoyne suffered a galling 24-point loss to Ballybay last week and they are heading towards a relegation play-off. Clontibret have drawn their first two games and a straight route to the semi-finals now looks unlikely for the champions.

Verdict: Clontibret

Inniskeen v Ballybay

(Saturday, Grattan Park, 6.30pm)

Ballybay showed how powerful they can be as they put 4-20 past Donaghmoyne last weekend – Christopher McGuinness, Colm Lennon, Darragh Drury and Shane McGuinness finding the net. They can expect much more resistant from Oisin McConville’s Inniskeen.

Verdict: Ballybay

SFC Group Two

Castleblayney v Scotstown

(Sunday, St Mary’s Park, 2pm)

Castleblayney are in serious trouble and if their shooting doesn’t improve dramatically, they could be well beaten here. Scotstown need just one win from their last two games to reach the semi-finals, and it should arrive here.

Verdict: Scotstown

Carrickmacross v Truagh Gaels

(Sunday, Carrickmacross, 5pm)

The senior result of last weekend belonged to the Gaels who hit a massive 4-17 in their destruction of Latton. Mattie McGleenan’s Carrick will not let them saunter through like that though, even though they defended poorly against Scotstown last week.

Verdict: Draw

IFC Group One

Eire Og v Corduff

(Saturday, Smithsborough, 4pm)

Corduff will be aiming for the win that will allow them to take control of Group One, but Eire Og have the ability to score.

Verdict: Corduff

Cremartin v Blackhill

(Saturday, Cremartin, 6.30pm)

Cremartin earned a solid point in Clonduff last week and they should be too strong for Blackhill. Their opponents did earn a good win over Currin last week.

Verdict: Cremartin

IFC Group Two

Tyholland v Doohamlet

(Sunday, Tyholland, 2pm)

Doohamlet were turned over at home to Killanny last week so the pressure is on. Tyholland, meanwhile, recorded a brilliant 14-point win against Monaghan Harps – James McQuaid, Shane Treanor, Mark Mooney and Ryan Mallon all finding the net.

Verdict: Tyholland

Emyvale v Monaghan Harps

(Sunday, St Oliver Plunkett Park, 5pm)

Aodhan Og McAnespie will be suspended for the Harps as they try and bounce back from last week’s hammering at the hands of Tyholland. Emyvale should make it three wins from three.

Verdict: Emyvale

JFC Group One

Killeevan v Aghabog

(Sunday, Killeevan, 2pm)

Frustration is the key word for Killeevan as they have lost both their games by a point. They can get back on track here.

Verdict: Killeevan

Rockcorry v Sean McDermott’s

(Sunday, Aghabog, 5pm)

Sean McDermott’s remain the team to beat and a win here means that they will complete the group with a 100 percent record. Rockcorry have won one and lost one.

Verdict: Sean McDermott’s

JFC Group 2

Toome v Scotstown

(Saturday, Toome, 4pm)

Toome can take a big step towards the latter stages with a home win. Scotstown have been game in all three of their games, but they’re just lacking that bit of quality to get over the line.

Verdict: Toome

Aughnamullen v Clones

(Saturday, Aughnamulln, 6.30pm)

This is a meeting of the two sides who have won their first two games. Both have impressed, but Clones should continue their winning streak.

Verdict: Clones

TYRONE

SFC round one

Clonoe v Coalisland

(Thursday, Edendork, 7.15pm)

The Senior Championship throws in with a beautiful clash between Clonoe and Coalisland. Stevie McDonnell is over Clonoe this year and he has blown away by their positive attitude and commitment. Tiarnan Quinn continues to look the part for Coalisland and the young forward will need some watching this evening.

Verdict: Clonoe

Killyclogher v Carrickmore

(Friday, Healy Park, 7.45pm)

Matthew Murnaghan played a full 60 minutes for Killyclogher at the weekend, and that is a great boost ahead of the championship clash with Carrickmore. They have made three of the last five finals and will have full confidence of going on another run. Carrickmore can still call on their old guard of Mark Donnelly, Martin Penrose and Conor Gormley, and no side will get it easy with that trio on the pitch.

Verdict: Killyclogher

Loughmacrory v Dungannon

(Saturday, Galbally, 4.30pm)

Dungannon have been excellent in the league to date and they really look like a side going places, so it’s important that they don’t slip on this very big banana skin. Omagh knocked them out at this stage last year (1-13 to 1-10) but they will feel that they have learned a lot from then. After opening with three defeats, Loughmacrory picked up a morale-boosting win over Pomeroy last week with Diarmuid Gallagher grabbing a late goal.

Verdict: Dungannon

Ardboe v Donaghmore

(Saturday, Fr Campbell Park, 7pm)

It’s four losses from four in the league for Donaghmore but if there is one thing new manager John Rafferty specializes in, then it’s getting his team up for championship football. “If you’re going to eat an elephant, you’re going to eat it one bite at a time,” said Rafferty, who said that it will take time to gel. Ardboe are also trying to put a poor set of league results behind them and Kyle Coney will lead their scoring charge.

Verdict: Ardboe

Moy v Derrylaughan

(Sunday, Dungannon, 2pm)

Moy have won two, lost two heading into this fixture and player-manager Sean Cavanagh will be fairly pleased with their progress to date. Joe Donnelly got the Derrylaughan goal in their loss to Dromore last week, but they fielded an understrength side with this fixture in mind. Moy are slight underdogs here but expect this to go the distance.

Verdict: Moy

Omagh v Dromore

(Sunday, Pairc an Loacha, 4.30pm)

What a game we have in store as Omagh and Dromore meet in the first round. Carl McCabe has an injury concern over the in-form Ronan O’Neill, and his presence – or lack of – could be decisive. Dromore have had great success at underage level, and they will be aiming to filter that through. They also want to make up for the hammering at the hands of Trillick at this stage last year.

Verdict: Omagh

Errigal Ciaran v Pomeroy

(Sunday, Pairc Colmcille, 7pm)

Errigal have suffered a number of injury blows in the lead up this year’s championship – Darragh Canavan and Pauric McAnenley amongst them – but Ciaran McGinley did return in the league win over Killyclogher last weekend. Pomeroy are back up from the second tier and although this is a very hard fixture on paper, they have shown in the past that they can really come good in the championship.

Verdict: Errigal Ciaran

Galbally v Trillick

(Monday, Healy Park, 8pm)

Carrickmore in 2004/05 were the last side to retain the Tyrone title, but it will take a good side to stop Trillick from breaking that run. The unexpected break has allowed Mattie Donnelly to return to full fitness while Rory Brennan and Lee Brennan are in good form. Galbally haven’t looked out of place on their return to senior level, but John Moylan’s side will need to be at their absolute best to dethrone the Reds.

Verdict: Trillick

By Niall McCoy