A look at the weekend's games
Today
Antrim SFC: St Gall’s v Lámh Dearg, Casement Park, 7pm – The St Galls juggernaut rolls on and they are at unbackable odds to come through this and take a crack at regaining the Ulster and All-Ireland titles lost last year. Their strength in depth makes prospects of an upset remote.
Mayo SHC: Ballyhaunis v Westport, McHale Park, 3pm.
Tomorrow
Antrim SHC: Loughgiel Shamrocks v Ruairi Óg Cushendall, Casement Park, 3.30pm – A repeat of last years final when Loughgiel reversed the losing trend that saw them lose six finals since 2004 - but only just. The belief Cushendall would storm back this year has taken a knock with the injury to influential county marksman Neil McManus.
Down SHC: Ballycran v Portaferry, Downpatrick, 3pm – There is unhappiness that the venue isn’t on the peninsula but that aside Ballycran came through an ill-tempered semi-final against Ballygalget and avenged defeat in last years final. They are favourites to weather the challenge of Portaferry and reclaim the title.
Leitrim SFC: St Mary’s v Glencar-Manorhamilton, Carrick-on-Shannon, 3.30pm – Glencar-Manorhamilton are going for a fourth successive title and now face a young St Marys side. The holders are hot favourites – all of the full-forward line featured in the countys win against Sligo in the championship.
Sligo SFC: Coolera Strandhill v Tourlestrane, Markievicz Park, 5pm – Tourlestrane hope to bounce back from last years defeat by Eastern Harps and despite the loss of the injured Eamonn O’Hara, start favourites to prevent Coolera-Strandhill adding to the club’s only title in 5005.
