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In round 7 of the National League, a draw with Meath was enough to see Monaghan survive in the top Division. In what was an up-and-down League for the Farney men, they will be content as they head into knock-out football. The Meath draw was preceded by a loss to Kerry. But, Seamus McEnaney will have told his side that if they were to lose, that was the time to do so.

2019’s defeat to Cavan in the Ulster Championship will be at the front of McEnaney’s mind. The loss shook the team who went on to lose to Armagh in the qualifiers. Now, he will be relying on his talisman Conor McManus to lead from the front. Thankfully for McEnaney, McManus is finding form at the right time. He scored 1-08 against Meath and 0-05 the week before against Kerry in just 35 minutes.

Cavan need to show mental toughness

On the other hand, Cavan will be wishing they had another week to prepare for this fixture. Last year’s trip to the Ulster final seems like a long time ago now in light of their new Division 3 status. Two losses since the restart will need to be quickly forgotten about by Mickey Graham’s men.

Graham admitted his side “got what we deserved” after failing to get a result against Roscommon. In fact, a win on the day could have seen Cavan finish in the promotion spots. But, Division 2 was the tightest of the four and, true to form, the loss saw Cavan fall to 7th. Graham continued to confess nerves among his team before the game.

If Cavan are to replicate their victory from last season, they need to quickly make peace with their League result. In the Championship there will be no time to wallow in self-pity. In particular, the Ulster Championship will be a gruelling one on its own. Beginning in the preliminary round only adds to the challenge.

Paddy Power rightfully have Monaghan at 3/10 favourites. Cavan are 10/3 and a draw is 8/1. The game is live on Sky Sports.

Prediction: Monaghan.

Starting Teams

Monaghan: Rory Beegan, Kieran Duffy, Conor Boyle, Ryan Whylie, Dessie Ward, Fintan Kelly, Karl O’Connor, Darren Hughes, Kieran Hughes, Ryan McAnespie, Micheál Bannigan, Dermot Malone, Stephen O’Hanlon, Conor McCarthy, Conor McManus

Cavan: Raymond Galligan, Jason McLoughlin, Killian Clarke, Killian Brady, Gerard Smith, Ciaran Brady, Luke Fortune, James Smith, Padraig Faulkner, Martin Reilly, Gearoid McKernan, Oisin Kieran, Oisin Pierson, Chris Conway, Cormac O’Reilly

Ulster Football Championship Preliminary Round: Monaghan vs Cavan, Saturday, October 31st, 1.15pm (Clones).

@UlsterGAA Senior Football Championship – Monaghan v @CavanCoBoardGaa
Saturday 31st of October 2020
@ClonesGAA
1:15pm #AllBoroFloorService @MonaghanGaaNYC pic.twitter.com/iDiahh9lDG

— @monaghangaa (@monaghangaa) October 26, 2020

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These teams met all the way back in January in Division 4 of the National League. On that day, Limerick claimed a three-point win that set the trend for the rest of both counties’ League campaigns.

Limerick eventually topped the Division. Before the lockdown, Billy Lee’s side were in pole position for promotion. But, a defeat to Wexford in the first game back threatened to spoil the party. A win in Sligo in the final round ensured they got the finish they deserved.

Last season, Limerick’s Championship campaign left a lot to be desired. An opening win over Tipperary was a promising sign. But, they never came close to Cork in the Munster semi-final. Next, Westmeath eliminated them from the qualifiers in round 2.

Lee will be hoping that his side can take some of the confidence of their League win into their Championship. With no qualifiers this year, there is no time for settling in.

Meanwhile, Waterford lost to Antrim in their final League game. But, there was positives for the Munster side. Previously, they sat out round 6 because of London’s unavailability. Then, the Antrim fixture was on the verge of being called off. The Waterford players voiced concerns over having to isolate after traveling to Northern Ireland. Thankfully, Antrim agreed to meet them halfway. As a result, they got a much-needed match under their belt. Yet, they will still wish they had more time to prepare for this one.

Waterford have not beaten Limerick in the Championship since 1981. Without the guarantee of a second game this year, they need to be ready to go toe-to-toe with teams.

Limerick are favourites are 1/3. On the other hand, Waterford are 3/1 and a draw is 8/1 with Paddy Power. The game is live on GAA GO.

Prediction: Limerick.

Munster Football Championship Quarter-FInal: Waterford vs Limerick, Saturday, October 31st, 7pm (Fraher Field).

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Obviously, there were pros and cons to the rule. For example, teams with taller players were at an obvious aerial advantage. But, to counter the argument that teams were going to adopt defensive set-ups, kick-passing often moves the ball too quickly for teams to get enough bodies back into their ’45.

Old Habits Die Hard

However, since its introduction, the advanced mark has been used less frequently than one may have expected. Instead, the running game that has been drilled into many teams is proving hard to shake. Even when the ball does get kicked, forwards often elect to run it rather than take on the mark.

For example, in the return of the National League Donegal played Tyrone. In the first-half, Donegal talisman Michael Murphy collected a kick-pass on the ’21 on the right-hand side of the pitch. Instead of claiming the mark and taking a free (note that Murphy is Donegal’s primary free-taker), he carried on and shook off his marker to kick a lovely left-footed score. But, had he missed that chance his decision not to take the mark would have been criticised.

Over time it may become a case that the mark is the go-to for forwards. Meanwhile, it seems like old habits die hard. In the final round of the National League last weekend, only five scores were kicked from marks in the four Division 1 games. Tyrone’s win over Mayo was a game that yielded no scores as a result of marked balls.

In addition to this, Tyrone’s second goal in that game is evidence of how the new rule is not affecting the game negatively. Just before half-time, Tyrone’s Conor McKenna picked up the ball around halfway. Then, he kicked a Connelly-esque ball inside to Dara Canavan. Mayo’s Oisin Mullin was the defender responsible for Canavan and to his credit Mullin did nothing wrong. He was marking in front and to the wingside of his man. But, such was the accuracy of the ball that it landed on Canavan’s chest. As a result, the Tyrone forward was goalside of his man. Using his pace, Canavan opted to run the ball and ended up finding the net.

Of course, he could have graced the pass with a mark. But, some kick passes deserve more than a point.

Incredibly accurate pass by Conor McKenna finished in a superb GOAL by Darragh Canavan for @TyroneGAALive pic.twitter.com/LtOiZ9GyEv

— The GAA (@officialgaa) October 25, 2020

Will the Mark alter tactics?

As a result, the advanced mark is having the desired effect of encouraging more kick-passes. Thus far, forwards are only giving it a second-thought after first looking to play on.

This could bridge the gap between weaker and stronger teams. If weaker teams can use the rule effectively, they can pick off points against stronger opposition when forwards may be isolated inside.

On the other hand, we could see the use of sweepers re-introduced. Otherwise, teams will have to pressurise their opposition much higher up the pitch. This type of game would make the middle-third a much more competitive battleground.

A faster game as a result of increased kick-passing would be an improvement in many eyes. This could come with its own downsides though. For example, if a ball moves the length of the pitch in two passes will the referee be close enough to the action to make accurate decisions? This could result in the GAA mimicking the AFL and using multiple referees.

The rule is still in its infancy. Therefore, the teething problems are following it (Aidan O’Shea’s misunderstanding of the rule last weekend is one example). With the Championship about the commence though, we will see the rule have its true effect.

Championship football differs from League in that teams will do what it takes to win. Hence, exploitation of the advanced mark could be incoming. But, for now the evidence has been promising. In the coming weeks, it will be of great interest to see how teams utilise the prompt to kick the ball.

See Info-graphs with the New Rules in Gaelic Football #gaa pic.twitter.com/xn5sVi7MzM

— Galway GAA Coaching & Games (@CoachingGalway) January 13, 2020

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The Mayo team of the 2010s is arguably the best team to never actually win an All-Ireland. Defeats in the 2012, ’13, ’16, and ’17 finals have meant the Sam Maguire has still not entered Mayo since 1951. Furthermore, they reached semi-finals in 2011, ’14, ’15, and ’19.

Yes, many of the key figures of that decade are still in or around the Mayo squad. But, they are not the young, promising, sprightly footballers they were when they first arrived on the scene. For example, Cillian O’Connor won Young Footballer of the Year for the first time in 2011. That is now almost ten years ago.

Likewise, Aidan O’Shea made his senior debut in 2009 and is entering his thirties.

2020 will be the first year that Mayo enter a Championship without Andy Moran since 2004. Furthermore, the likes of Donal Vaughan, Keith Higgins, Seamus O’Shea, Tom Parsons, and Colm Boyle have seen their game time reduce in recent seasons. In addition to this, these veterans have begun to accumulate more injuries than ever before.

Even Lee Keegan is in his thirties now. It seems like an age ago that his battles with Diarmuid Connolly were unfolding in the Croke Park arena. Recently, the marauding half-back has been deployed in the full-back line as Mayo’s key man-marker.

As a result, the time for Mayo to introduce some new blood has long past. Unfortunately, this year’s sprint-like Championship has meant Horan may have to rely on his tried and tested members. But, when Division 2 rolls around next season, Mayo can finally inject new life into their team. This is why Mayo’s relegation could turn out to be of benefit.

The Up-and-Coming

Despite Mayo’s relegation, they very nearly clung onto Division 1 status. This was largely thanks to some of the younger players James Horan put his trust in.

Against Galway, Mark Moran took the plaudits for his performance at centre-forward. Then, it was Tommy Conroy who drove the charge against Tyrone. In addition to this, Eoghan McLoughlin of Westport put in two big displays in the half-back line and Oisin Mullin’s runs from corner-back were almost unstoppable at times.

These four examples are all players who are under 22 years old. This just shows that there is a pool of talent coming through the ranks in Mayo. Furthermore, David McBrien and Paul Towey are two more U20 players that have already earned senior debuts.

Before the lockdown, Belmullet’s Ryan O’Donoghue had been the one to turn heads and did so again in just 20 minutes against Galway.

If these youngsters continue to develop in the manner they have demonstrated, they will be valuable assets to the Mayo team and could launch the return to an All-Ireland showdown.

All of this is not to say no player has broken into the side in recent years. To illustrate, Paddy Durcan has nailed down one of the half-back spots and become one of the best players in the country on his day.

Similarly, Cillian O’Connor’s brother Diarmuid brought his U-21 form straight to senior and has never looked back.

Other examples of players to come to the fore in recent years are Stephen Coen and Matthew Ruane. This duo were the midfield pairing when Mayo won the U21 All-Ireland in 2016. However, it is only now that it seems like either is on course for an extended run in the team.

On the other hand, many have failed to kick-on from initial runs in the senior teams. For young footballers, one of the hardest things to do is maintain form. Just ask any of James Carr, Conor Loftus, Fionn McDonagh, Fergal Boland, or Eoin O’Donoghue.

With that in mind, the prospect of playing Division 2 football is one that Mayo should embrace. Now, this is not to undermine Division 2 by any means. Instead, it should be taken by the Mayo contingent as a good level at which to filter players into their senior team.

The competition Mayo will face in Division 2 is not to be scoffed at. In fact, it will require seven good performances to ensure promotion. On the other hand, it can a very slippery slope in the other direction.

But, these League games will be a chance for Mayo’s youngsters to make their mark and ease the transition. In Division 1 it is much harder for youngsters to do so. For example, Mark Moran introduced himself with a man of the match performance against Galway. However, when he was given special attention from Tyrone, he was anonymous.

In conclusion, Mayo’s relegation is far from the be-all and end-all. In contrast, it could prove to be a blessing in disguise. James Horan has a nicely balanced squad at his disposal. If he uses the next six months wisely, he could have Mayo’s next generation of title challengers.

Tommy Conroy le cúl álainn @MayoGAA are back in the game @GAA_BEO #AllianzLeagues #GAABEO pic.twitter.com/yH86EqAEBp

— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) October 25, 2020

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Mayo v Tyrone, Castlebar, 2pm Click for live score commentary

Mayo didn’t show any sign of rustiness in their return to action last Sunday. On the contrary, they produced arguably their best performance during James Horan’s second coming. From the off, they blew Galway out of the water. In the first-half, they accumulated a remarkable 2-17. Then, a further 1-6 after the break solidified their dominance.

However, with Galway missing many of their star names, it was easy for the Mayo players to find gaps in the defence. Next weekend, it will be much more attritional against Mickey Harte’s side. As a result, it will be impressive if Mayo can replicate such a scoreline.

The silver-lining for Mickey Harte in his loss to Donegal is the return of Conor McKenna. After six years in the AFL, the 24-year-old started for Tyrone. He scored 1-2 from play and added further assists.

Harte will be keen to stem the gaps Donegal were able to find in the Tyrone defence last weekend. If Mayo’s running game is on point, they can punish Tyrone just as easily. In a must-win game, Tyrone can’t afford to fall far behind.

Team News

Tyrone will be sweating over the availabilty of Rory Brennan. The referee brandished a red card after the corner-back fouled Murphy a minute from time and appeared to lay a hand on Jerome Henry.

On the other hand, Kieran McGeary’s dismissal won’t have any ramifications. He got his marching orders three minutes before Brennan after a black card on top of a yellow.

Cathal McShane won’t be available this season. But, Peter Harte could return and link up with Conor McKenna.

For Mayo, Mark Moran was the standout performer. The young Westport centre-forward made his debut for Mayo and fitted in seamlessly. A personal tally of 1-2 rounded off a dream debut. Likewise, Paddy Durcan, Oisin Mullin, and Aidan O’Shea all found themselves in the team of the week.

James Horan has very few complaints after the weekend. Therefore, we can’t expect many changes to the side that will take the field next Sunday.

Team News

Tyrone (Mayo): Niall Morgan; Liam Rafferty, Ronan McNamee, Darragh Canavan; Tiernan McCann, Kieran McGeary, Michael McKernan; Brian Kennedy, Frank Burns; Matthew Donnelly, Conor McKenna, Darren McCurry; Peter Harte, Conall McCann, Conor Meyler.

Mayo (Tyrone): David Clarke; Oisin Mullin, Stephen Coen, Lee Keegan; Patrick Durcan, Kevin McLoughlin, Eoghan McLaughlin; Matthew Ruane, Conor Loftus; Diarmuid O’Connor, Mark Moran, Bryan Walsh; Tommy Conroy, Aidan O’Shea, Cillian O’Connor.

Prediction: Mayo. They found a way to survive against Donegal in 2018 and will find a way to do so again, especially in McHale Park.

Mayo vs Tyrone: Division 1, Sunday October 25th, 2pm (Castlebar).

.@TyroneGAALive's Conor McKenna finds the top corner! pic.twitter.com/M4jAanouxI

— The GAA (@officialgaa) October 18, 2020

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Padraic Joyce labelled the 15 point loss to Mayo as “Probably the most embarrassing day of my career”. After already losing Shane Walsh and the Moycullen contingent, Joyce was further hampered by losing Damien Comer and Johnny Duane early in the game.

Therefore, Galway go into the final round with a depleted squad. But, Joyce will prioritise the Championship game against Sligo rather than risk players against Dublin.

Worryingly, Mayo’s 17 first-half points at the weekend all came in or around the D. This will be cause for concern for Joyce who knows Dublin will punish them for such openness. As a result, expect to see a more condensed Galway defence this Sunday.

Meanwhile, Dublin oozed class in the game against Meath. Despite conceding 0-19, they were never really under threat. Dean Rock, Con O’Callaghan, and Dean Rock all had a day of shooting practice to hone their touch. But, Brian Fenton and Paddy Small were the only other scorers.

It will be interesting to see how Farrell approaches the Galway game. Will he deploy his big guns and go for the title? Or will he rotate his squad to look at some of his other options? Such is Dublin’s squad depth that even if he opts to rotate, there may be nothing Galway can do to stop Dublin challenging Kerry.

Team News

Padraic Joyce doesn’t have any good news ahead of this game. Comer’s hamstring injury appeared to be more than just a niggle. Likewise, Johnny Duane probably won’t feature this time around. As a result, Joyce’s options are limited and he may have to make do with what he has.

Aaron Byrne and Sean Bugler were given cameos off the bench for Dublin against Meath. Farrell could use them from the start against Galway to rest some of his key forwards. Similarly, Robbie McDaid could have another chance to impress in the half-back line.

Johnny Cooper limped off after 11 minutes last weekend. Eoin Murchan could be his replacement for the Galway game.

Prediction: Dublin. The five-in-a-row All-Ireland Champions haven’t shown any signs of slowing down in the transition between managers. Against a weakened Galway side, they should have too much firepower over the course of 70 minutes.

Dublin (Galway): Stephen Cluxton; Cian Murphy, David Byrne, Michael Fitzsimons; John Small, Jonny Cooper, Robert McDaid; Brian Fenton, Emmet O Conghaile; Eric Lowndes, Ciaran Kilkenny, Niall Scully; Paddy Small, Con O’Callaghan, Dean Rock.

Galway (Dublin): Bernard Power; Sean Kelly, Sean Mulkerrin, James Foley; Liam Silke, Gary O’Donnell, Johnny Heaney; Cein Darcy, Tom Flynn; Paul Kelly, Paul Conroy, Jason Leonard; Robert Finnerty, Adrian Varley, Ian Burke.

Galway vs Dublin: Division 1, Sunday, October 25th, 2pm (Pearse Stadium). 

Watch the Full-Time Highlights of Dublin v Meath in Round 6 of the Allianz Football League here on GAANOW!
Full-Time Score:
Dublin: 1-20
Meath: 0-19 pic.twitter.com/iqWy6EkO90

— The GAA (@officialgaa) October 17, 2020

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Last weekend, Wicklow were emphatic against Antrim. Their seven-goals was enough to win a game in itself. As a result, they are tied top of Division 4 and need one of the favourites for promotion.

But, Wexford returned to action with a win of their own. Despite going to Limerick with a depleted squad, they ran out three-point winners. That was a much-needed confidence boost for a team that has been shrouded with uncertainty. Paul Galvin stepped away as manager just a month before the restart. Then, four positive Covid-19 tests ruled out a host of players for Galvin’s replacement Shane Roche. With this in mind, Wexford’s win last weekend is even more impressive. If they can carry that momentum into round 7, they will see themselves in Division 3 next season.

Prediction: Wicklow.

Limerick could have sealed promotion with a result over Wexford. Instead, they need to defeat Sligo to go up to Division 3. They hit just three first-half points against Wexford. In fact, it took a triple substitution at the midpoint to give the Munster men a boost. Billy Lee will be keen to ensure his team start quicker this time around.

Sligo will relish the battle with Limerick. In their own restart, they lost to Carlow at the death. As a result, their promotion hopes have thinned. Yet, a win over Limerick would give make it possible. Paul Taylor’s side face Galway in the Championship two weeks later. A promotion would provide his team with much-welcome encouragement heading into this one. They have nothing to gain from a draw. So, expect them to play off the cuff.

Prediction: Limerick.

On Thursday morning, Waterford issued a lengthy statement announcing their concession of the round 7 game against Antrim. The statement cited players’ concerns over needing to isolate after travelling north of the border as the reason. However, Antrim have since offered to sacrifice their home game in order to fulfil the fixture.

As a result, the game will now take place in Dundalk. Antrim could have taken the two points from Waterford without even playing. But, they instead stated their desire to win the game in a deserving manner:  “We believe that the integrity of the league needs to be upheld. If we are good enough to collect two points we will do it in a fair and manly manner on the field of play.”

This game is effectively a dead-rubber for Waterford. Still, it is an opportunity to get some match practice ahead of the Championship. They play Limerick the following week in the Munster quarter-final.

A victory for Antrim will put them in the promotion mix. It’s a big ask though as other results also need to go their way. Last week, their thrashing at the hands of Wicklow left much to be desired.

Prediction: Antrim.

Division 4 National League: (All games throw-in at 2pm on Saturday, October 24th) 

Wexford vs Wicklow (Chadwick’s Wexford Park).

Sligo vs Limerick (Markievicz Park).

Antrim vs Waterford (Dundalk).

FIXTURES THIS WEEKEND
ALLIANZ FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIV4 | RD7
Wexford v Wicklow
2pm | Saturday October 25th | Wexford
This game is scheduled to be streamed live on GAAGO pic.twitter.com/5uZ9rHYeVy

— Official Wicklow GAA (@wicklowgaa) October 19, 2020

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Kerry’s efficiency in front of goal saw them cruise to victory in Monaghan. David Clifford returned to regularly scheduled shooting with 0-6. Likewise, Tony Brosnan contributed 0-3 to put his hand up for selection.

In addition, defenders Jason Foley, Gavin White and Paul Murphy all found the target to add some threat from deep. When they play Donegal, these driving runs will be needed to penetrate the ’45.

However, Donegal have plenty of attacking options in their own right. Jamie Brennan and Niall O’Donnell scored 1-4 between them from the half-forward line. In addition to this, Ryan McHugh reminded everyone why he’s among the best with 0-3 from wing-back.

If Kerry’s half-backs match up with Donegal’s half-forwards as they should on paper, this game will be free-flowing. Donegal have nothing to lose. As a result, we may see them take the game to Kerry and make the Kingdom earn the title.

Team News

Kerry travelled without Jack Barry, Paul Geaney, Stephen O’Brien and James O’Donoghue. These are four of the first fifteen who will need minutes before the Championship. Therefore, Peter Keane could introduce these familiar faces against Donegal if available.

But, the likes of Paudie Clifford, Killian Spillane, Tony Brosnan, and Dara Moynihan are offering an exciting dimension to the attack. Keane could opt to experiment with his forwards. It also remains to be seen where Tommy Walsh will be primarily deployed.

Donegal were without Patrick McBrearty, who limped out of a recent challenge game against Roscommon. Michael Langan and Odhrán McFadden-Ferry were also absent. Declan Bonner may opt against risking these players even if available next weekend. Donegal face Tyrone in the first round of the Championship. As a result, Bonner will be torn between saving such players and giving them some much needed match practice.

Kerry (Donegal): Shane Ryan; Jason Foley, Tadhg Morley, Tom O’Sullivan; Paul Murphy, Peter Crowley, Gavin White; David Moran, Diarmuid O’Connor; Micheal Burns, Sean O’Shea, Ronan Buckley; Tony Brosnan, David Clifford, Dara Moynihan.

Donegal (Kerry) Stephen Ryan, Gordon Kelly, Cillian Brennan, Eoghan Collins, Pearse Lillias, Aaron Fitzgerald, Alan Sweeney, Cathal O’Connor, Ciaran Russell, Emmet McMahon, Eoin Cleary, Jamie Malone, Kerman Sexton, Joe McGann, Cian O’Dea

Prediction: 

Kerry. The Kingdom’s firepower up front is arguably the best around. Even if Keane opts for some rotation, the new faces will be keen to show their worth. On the other hand, Donegal have no reason to take major risks so Bonner will likely disperse some game-time among the squad.

Kerry vs Donegal: Division 1, Saturday, October 24th, 2pm (Tralee). 

Watch the Full-Time Highlights of Donegal v Tyrone in Round 6 of the Allianz Football League here on GAANOW!
Full-Time Score:
Donegal: 2-17
Tyrone: 2-13 pic.twitter.com/NfYd1fi0a9

— The GAA (@officialgaa) October 18, 2020

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The Farney men had a chance to distance themselves from relegation last weekend but failed to take it. They came up three points shy of Kerry after poor accuracy in front of the posts left them chasing the game.

Conor McManus was sprung from the bench for the second-half. Despite adding 0-5, Kerry kept tacking on scores at the other end.

He could feature from the start against Meath. As a result, he will draw Meath’s primary attention, allowing Monaghan’s other forwards to step up.

Meath offered a spirited showing against Dubin without ever really threatening them. Donal Keogan driving runs caused the Dubs some problems in defence. If he can repeat the trick against Monaghan it will create chances. Shane Walsh impressed in corner-forward with 0-4.

Despite their relegation being guaranteed some time ago, Meath’s performances are no reflection of their lack of points. They came within a score of Mayo, Kerry, and Galway before the lockdown. Similarly, they have reason to be hopeful after their showing against Dublin. The Monaghan game is a chance for Meath to prove they were competitive in the top Division. Expect the handbrake to be let off by Andy McEntee.

Team News

Conor McManus may see more than just a half on Sunday. Monaghan will need his precision in front of goal.

Christopher McGuinness also came off the bench against Kerry. Two points may be enough to earn him a start against Meath.

McManus came on for Conor McCarthy at the weekend. If McCarthy is allowed the chance, he will be keen to show his worth.

Meath have an extra week to prepare for their Championship opener on the 8th November. Thus, McEntee may continue to use his strongest players against Monaghan for some match fitness. Debutants Eoin Harkin and Cathal Hickey impressed at opposite ends of the pitch. They could be rewarded with another cap.

Prediction: Monaghan. Meath are no outsiders in this one. But, Monaghan have more on the line and will approach it as such. When it comes down to the wire, back Conor McManus to get them over the line and into Division 1 safety.

Meath (Monaghan): Marcus Brennan; Seamus Lavin, Conor McGill, David Toner; Cathal Hickey, Shane McEntee, Donal Keogan; Bryan Menton, Ronan Jones; Jason Scully, Bryan McMahon, Ronan Ryan; Cillian O’Sullivan, Shane Walsh, Thomas O’Reilly.

Subs: Andrew Colgan, Eoin Harkin, Gavin McCoy, Matthew Costello, Brian Conlon, Ethan Devine, Joey Wallace, Jordan Morris, James Conlon, Donal Lenihan, Darragh Campion.

Monaghan vs Meath: Division 1, Sunday, October 25th, 2pm (Clones).

GAANOW have the highlights from last weekend's #AllianzLeagues Football action. Watch the round-up here! pic.twitter.com/HlRQePTUVZ

— The GAA (@officialgaa) October 20, 2020

https://3.249.64.60/gaa/weekend-gaa-fixtures-results-25th-26th-27th-july-2020/

https://3.249.64.60/gaa/weekend-gaa-fixtures-results-25th-26th-27th-july-2020/

https://twitter.com/officialgaa/status/1318509012535644160

The post Monaghan vs Meath: Division 1 Preview, team news and live scores appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Clare had two points to spare against Fermanagh in a 1-11 vs 1-9 victory that condemned the Ulster side to relegation.

Joe McGann’s superb individual goal was the difference at half-time. After the break, Clare extended their lead with a spread of scorers. Jamie Malone’s 0-3 came at a crucial time. With ten minutes to go, Fermanagh couldn’t reel in the five-point deficit.

Meanwhile, Armagh’s performance against Roscommon perhaps wasn’t deserving of a four point defeat. They gave away two penalties to let Roscommon back into a game in which Armagh were totally controlling.

A further goal for the Connacht side saw Armagh heads drop.

But, there was a lot of good to take from the performance. For example, Armagh were quite efficient in from of the posts.

Kieran McGeeney will still be confident of a promotion. Furthermore, if Cavan do them a favour, they could still go up as Division 2 winners.

Team News

Both sides start their Championship on November 1. So far, neither has picked up any major injury concerns.

Clare play Tipperary who themselves are finding form at the right time. Clare could prioritise staying in Division 2 though. If they do, expect to see a full-strength team take the field against Armagh.

Similarly, getting promoted is no small deal for Armagh. Therefore, McGeeney won’t shy away from letting his big guns loose again. The O’Neill brothers were especially impressive against Roscommon and could be deployed again.

They play Derry in their Ulster Championship opener.

Armagh ( Clare): Blaine Hughes; Patrick Burns, Ryan Kennedy, James Morgan; Conor O’Neill, Callum Cumiskey, Aidan Forker; Niall Grimley, Oisin O’Neill; Rory Grugan, Stefan Campbell, Mark Shields; Jamie Clarke, Rian O’Neill, Conor Turbitt.

Clare (Armagh) Stephen Ryan, Gordon Kelly, Cillian Brennan, Eoghan Collins, Pearse Lillias, Aaron Fitzgerald, Alan Sweeney, Cathal O’Connor, Ciaran Russell, Emmet McMahon, Eoin Cleary, Jamie Malone, Kerman Sexton, Joe McGann, Cian O’Dea

Clare vs Armagh: Division 2, Saturday, October 24th, 2pm (Ennis).

GAANOW have the highlights from last weekend's #AllianzLeagues Football action. Watch the round-up here! pic.twitter.com/HlRQePTUVZ

— The GAA (@officialgaa) October 20, 2020

https://3.249.64.60/gaa/weekend-gaa-fixtures-results-25th-26th-27th-july-2020/

https://3.249.64.60/gaa/weekend-gaa-fixtures-results-25th-26th-27th-july-2020/

https://twitter.com/officialgaa/status/1318509012535644160

The post Clare vs Armagh: Division 2 Preview, Starting Team News, Live scores appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.