Nicky Rackard Cup Group 1 Round 1
Monaghan v Longford, Saturday, 4.30, Inniskeen
Monaghan start their Nicky Rackard Cup campaign against Longford at Páirc Grattan on Saturday.
First-time Kehoe Cup winners Longford are coming off relegation from Division IIIA of the Allianz NHL, while Monaghan were unable to build on an opening-round win over Saturday’s opponents. Trevor Hilliard’s side lost to eventual champions Derry in last year’s Nicky Rackard semi-finals.
Monaghan will be looking for big performances from Fergal Rafter, Mark and Peter Treanor, Niall Garland and Brian Flanagan. Longford will hope to be able to call on Joe O’Brien, Cathal Mullane, Patrick Walsh and Séamus Hannon to lead their challenge, although they have reported several injury doubts.
Electric Ireland Ulster Minor Football Championship Qualifier Round 2
Donegal v Monaghan, Sunday, 2.00, Ballybofey
Monaghan will hope to take another step forward in the Ulster MFC when they face Donegal in Ballybofey this Sunday.
A week after winning the Ulster MFL (beating Donegal in the final), Monaghan were pipped by Derry after extra-time in a championship preliminary-round tie, but they bounced back last time out at the expense of Antrim. Donegal, who won five of their six league games, lost their championship opener at home to Tyrone.
Brendan Óg Ó Dufaigh, Andrew Moore, Seán Jones and Jordan McGarrell could play key roles for Monaghan, who are set to be without Aaron Mulligan through suspension. Shane and Rory O’Donnell, Stephen McFadden and Nathan Byrne should be among the central figures for Donegal.
By cshalvey Sat 12th May
