Today’s PREVIEWS
FOOTBALL Connacht SFC QF Leitrim v Mayo
Carrick-on-Shannon, 1.15pm; Referee: Paul Faloon (Down)
Full of purpose and bristling with energy since the resumption, Mayo head out on the All-Ireland road with a facile opener.
Verdict: Mayo
Leinster SFC first round Louth v Longford
TEG Cusack Park, Mullingar 1.30pm; Referee: David Coldrick (Meath)
The suspicion is that Longford conceded to Cork to protect morale but they’ve taken a lot of criticism. However, if there is punishment coming their way, it won’t be here. Verdict: Longford
Offaly v Carlow
Bord Na Mona O Connor Park, Tullamore, 1.30pm; Referee: Fergal Kelly (Longford)
Carlow’s sense of drift has not been arrested by Niall Carew’s appointment and their troubled season should finish against Offaly who have shown a steady improvement under John Maughan. Verdict: Offaly
Wexford v Wicklow
Chadwicks Wexford Park, 1.30pm; Referee: Maurice
Deegan (Laois)
It could be a challenge for Wicklow to get their feet back on the ground after sealing promotion last week. Improving Wexford might get some reward.
Verdict: Wexford
Munster SFC QF
Tipperary v Clare Semple Stadium, Thurles, 1.00 pm; Referee: Jerome Henry (Mayo)
Clare’s consistency is reflected in their continued Division 2 status and victory should send them on their way to a rare Munster final appearance despite Michael Quinlivan’s (below) presence for Tipperary
Verdict: Clare
Ulster SFC QF’s Donegal v Tyrone
MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey, 1.30pm; Referee: Joe McQuillan (Cavan)
Tyrone prospects are boosted by Conor McKenna’s swift adjustment after life in the AFL.
But Donegal look the better balanced and have proven class in attack which should allow them to take a huge step towards a third Ulster title in a row.
Verdict: Donegal
Derry v Armagh
Celtic Park, Derry, 4.00pm; Referee: Seán Hurson (Tyrone)
Separated by two National League divisions, this should be a routine step into semi-finals for Armagh. Verdict: Armagh
HURLING
Munster SHC semi-final Limerick v Tipperary
Páirc Uí Chaoimh, 4.00pm; Referee: L Gordon (Galway) Limerick have the momentum that comes with last Sunday’s quarterfinal victory over Clare.
Verdict: Limerick