Momentum a key point for Erne boss McGourty

By Jonathan Hogan

FERMANAGH ladies are back in action on Sunday, facing Sligo with the teams level on 12 points after five rounds in Division Four.

Their semi-final spot is already secured, but for manager CJ McGourty, this isn’t just a game to manage minutes — it’s about keeping momentum going.

A likely rematch with Sligo or Leitrim awaits in the semis, though unbeaten Antrim, who lead the way, could yet come into the equation. Either way, McGourty wants his side fully tuned in.

After a free weekend, it’s back to business as Fermanagh look to keep building on what’s been a hugely promising start to the year.

“We had that bit of a down week last week, gave players the weekend off, and we’ve a few injury worries still,” said McGourty.

“But we’ll be back now on Wednesday and try to regroup for Sligo.”

The Erne boss confirmed that a lot of changes are unlikely, despite some players still working their way back to fitness.

“It’ll probably be the week after against Kilkenny before we see any new returns, which isn’t ideal because that’s a game where you’d be wanting to give others game time. But we also need to get minutes into those who’ve missed out on games.

“It’s going to be a tricky balance over the next two weeks. But for Sunday, I don’t think anyone else is going to make it, and there’s no point pushing them either.”

While Fermanagh’s semi-final place is already secured, McGourty is determined to keep his side sharp and in best possible shape for the knockout rounds.

“We want to keep momentum up while also managing players’ loads and injuries.

“The team could change slightly, maybe one or two positional tweaks, but at the end of the day, we’re going out to win on Sunday, whether we’re qualified or not.”

With Sligo recently relegated from Division Three and still to face Leitrim, McGourty expects a tough encounter.

“The likelihood at this minute is we’ll probably play Sligo or Leitrim in the semi-final, but there’s also a chance we could face Antrim.

“So, it’s not about jockeying for position – it’s about keeping momentum.”

Fermanagh used their free weekend to reset and recover, but McGourty is clear on the focus for this week.

“At this stage, it’s about looking at ourselves, getting girls back up to speed, some light training, and preparing for the following week. There’s a lot of work to do, and we just have to focus on that rather than worrying about anything else.”

While Sunday’s result won’t define Fermanagh’s campaign, McGourty acknowledges the importance of maintaining their current standards.

“We’d be delighted to win the match. If we don’t, it’s not a massive deal, but it would break that little bit of momentum we’ve built.”

With just two rounds remaining before the semi-finals, Fermanagh will aim to keep their winning rhythm going.

They take on a Sligo side who could be equally eager to make a statement this weekend.