FOOTBALL MATCHBOX

TIPPERARY LIMERICK, 7PM Munster SFC semi-final: FBD Semple Stadium

AS the much-maligned Tailteann Cup moves into view, Tipperary can sidestep the competition with a victory here.

Limerick’s Division Two status for next year means they’ll have a spot in the qualifiers if defeat is their lot.

Tipp fell alarmingly in 2021 on the back of their historic Munster title win but they have at long last rediscovered some momentum, albeit coming from the pits of a winless start after two games in Division Four.

Limerick have improved out of sight under Billy Lee (inset) but Tipp’s greater need can swing it.

VERDICT: Tipperary

DERRY, TOMORROW

Ulster SFC semi-final: Athletic Grnds, 4pm (BBCNI)

VICTORIES have been rare for Derry in the Ulster Championship, successive ones even more so - as their appearance in just one provincial decider since 2000 attests. The win over Tyrone was their biggest statement in the province for years and backing that up against a seasoned and vastly more experienced Monaghan side is a tough ask. Having strolled past hapless Down in the quarter-final, Seamus Mcenaney (inset) and Monaghan have no such worries. There was an inconsistent streak to their NFL form but they were still doing it in Division One, which should stand to them.

VERDICT: Monaghan

WESTMEATH, TOMORROW Leinster SFC semi-final, Croke Park, 2.15pm (GAAGO)

WESTMEATH are another county seeking a victory that will allow them to bypass the Tailteann Cup as well as reach a third Leinster final since 2015, which would be a fine return for a county that has only reached five in their history.

Jack Cooney (left) wanted to settle the Tailteann Cup issue by winning promotion but after losing their way in the League they appeared to be back at it against Longford. It’s a step-up facing Kildare, however, and Glenn Ryan’s side made light work of Division Three champions Louth.

VERDICT: Kildare

DUBLIN MEATH, TOMORROW Leinster SFC semi-final, Croke Park, 2.15pm (GAAGO)

IN 2020 Dublin had 21 points to spare in this fixture, while last year they pulled away at the end of a nervy second half to win by six.

Something in between those margins is expected now.

The ease of Dublin’s victory over Wexford has perhaps led to overstatements as to their wellbeing but this should provide a clearer reading.

Meath have probably passed their peak under Andy Mcentee (inset) at this stage but should still be capable of posing difficult questions.