After the drama of yesterday's game in Thurles, it is a case of déjà vu for today's four teams. Derry meet Tyrone in a repeat of their Ulster championship clash at Clones with the throw-in at 2.30pm. While in Croke Park at 4.20pm, Westmeath who lost their Leinster championship meeting with Meath by a point, get the opportunity to reverse that result.
Derry are confident that they will not concede another three goals in today's game and believe that they, like Galway yesterday, can avenge their defeat against Tyrone earlier in the summer. While Derry are smiling about the possibility of meeting their old rivals, the mood has been very different in Tyrone, where some former players and supporters have been complaining about the new championship format. If Tyrone lose today, their provincial title will be seen as meaningless. Derry easily defeated Cavan two weeks ago, while Tyrone had much greater difficulty in the Ulster Final. Derry has also used the games and the time to alter their side, while the extra competitive games should give them the necessary edge today.
The possibility of another back door team upsetting a provincial champion does not seem as likely in the all-Leinster encounter. After slaying Mayo with a great comeback and a number of other impressive displays, Westmeath's players have enjoyed the kind of adulation and hype that they could have only have dreamed about. They are on a high and feel they have nothing to fear going into today's game against Meath. Yet, it is hard to see this year's championship revelation overcoming the strength and power of their near neighbours.
Filed by Neill Reilly
