SFC MATCHBOX
CORK
LIMERICK
MUNSTER SFC semi-final
Today, LIT Gaelic Grounds, 3pm (Live on GAAGO)
A STRAIGHTFORWARD win for Cork, you might think, but last month these sides played League games that could have seen them swap divisions, with Limerick looking down on the Rebels from Division Two.
Ultimately, they both stayed put but Limerick have matured into a competitive animal under Billy Lee (inset). Still, taking Cork’s scalp is still unlikely just yet.
VERDICT: Cork TIPPERARY KERRY MUNSTER SFC quarter-final
Today, Semple Stadium, 7pm (Sky Sports)
TIPP boss David Power has finally enjoyed a run of luck with some injuries clearing up since their League campaign, most notably Robbie Kiely’s (inset).
When the draw was made, this tie looked to have potential but the holders’ struggles in the League have sucked the life out of it, while Kerry appear to have moved up a gear or two.
VERDICT: Kerry
TYRONE CAVAN ULSTER SFC quarter-final
Today, Healy Park, 4pm (Sky Sports)
CAVAN managed to shake off relegation within seven days last year and beat Monaghan before surging to a rare Ulster title. This time they’ve had four weeks.
Given their pedigree, it would be foolish to write them off but, all things considered, it’s a tall order for Mickey Graham’s (inset) side here, even if Tyrone’s home record wouldn’t spook many.
VERDICT: Tyrone DERRY DONEGAL ULSTER SFC quarter-final
Tomorrow, Ballybofey, 4pm (RTE/BBC NI)
AN intriguing tie as Rory Gallagher’s Derry face a big step-up after making light work of several teams in Division Three, with Gallagher not behind the door in acknowledging his side’s potential.
Declan Bonner has declared Michael Murphy (inset) fit but surely he’ll hold him in reserve in the hope that they can negotiate this tie without him after the scare against Down.
LEITRIM v MAYO CONNACHT SFC semi-final
Tomorrow, Machale Park, 2pm (RTE)
LEITRIM made Mayo work hard for their win in last year’s tie in Carrick-onshannon and led by four points early on before a sin bin broke their momentum.
James Horan’s side ran out 11-point winners in the end.
It’s difficult to see Terry Hyland’s (inset) men being competitive deep into the second half again.
Mayo to move on to another Connacht final with little fuss.
VERDICT: Mayo