Manager Focus - Managers prepare for testing League tussle
ANTRIM
Jody Gormley
A final sip of gut-wrenching disappointment left Jody Gormley’s debut season as a senior inter-county manager a case of ‘what might have been’. Croke Park, August 4, and Tommy Gill’s incredible goal in the last seconds of extra-time afforded to a thrilling Tommy Murphy Cup final cruelly condemned Antrim to defeat.
That it was one of the best football games played at the stadium in ’07 was a credit. How it was lost, and won, was a shame for Antrim yet the performance positives gave Gormley encouragement for the season ahead. Rightly reappointed for another term, the serious business starts remarkably away to none other than Wicklow on Feb 3 in the restructured NFL. Gormley is working to progress a young squad – CJ (misses early rounds as he recovers from hip surgery), Magill, McCann, Niblock, Crozier, Gallagher, Dougan, Cunningham, Hasson and Loughrey at its core. Return to county football of Kevin McGourty is a bonus. Promotion is the first objective to set things up for an Ulster SFC first round home clash with Cavan on May 18.
NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Wicklow (away); Feb 9 v Kilkenny (home); Feb 16 v Clare (away); Mar 1 v Offaly (home); Mar 15 v Carlow (home), Mar 30 v London (away); Apr 6 v Tipperary (away); Apr 13 bye; Apr 20 v Waterford (home).
ARMAGH
Peter McDonnell Fascinating first season for the new man at the helm, Peter McDonnell (main picture) Naturally, it is a hard act to follow in the formidable footsteps of All-Ireland SFC title-winning and multiple Ulster SFC title-winning Joe Kernan who retired after a fantastic 2001-07 management reign. The Dr McKenna Cup did not produce any wins but served to blood new players and assess everyone in a provisional panel before the National League.
Peter has brought in Denis Hollywood, Brian O’Kane and Gary Mallon as his backroom team. Armagh are in transition on the field and face a demanding NFL schedule in Division 2 as they look to blend team changes and develop the style of play McDonnell is after before the Championship. The Ulster SFC starts quite late for them – six weeks into the programme on June 15 v Antrim or Cavan.
A fully fit, match fit Ronan Clarke leading the attack at full-forward was missing from Armagh’s game last season. One of the key elements to Armagh progress in the next number of months. The NFL opens on February 3 at home to Cavan. Very challenging schedule matches them against Dublin and Cork at home, Meath and Monaghan away.
NFL status: Division 2 NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Cavan (home); Feb 17 v Westmeath (away); Mar 2 v Monaghan (away); Mar 16 v Roscommon (home); Mar 30 v Dublin (home); Apr 5 v Meath (away); Apr 13 v Cork (home)
CARLOW
Paul Bealin Paul Bealin has the task of unifying things. Turbulent season last year. Andy Shortall’s time in charge was fraught with problems and didn’t last too long. Former player John Kearns stepped in to breach for the Championship. Out of Leinster in round one to Offaly, beaten 8-10 to
0-7 in the Tommy Murphy Cup quarter-finals. Bealin’s task is huge and no helped by the decision of 2007 player of the year Derek Hayden to make himself unavailable. Carlow also lost top midfielder Thomas Walsh to Wicklow.
Bealin, who left Wexford after a couple of seasons, had hoped to talk Walsh into transferring back. Speculation came to nothing. Hayden has been linked to a move to Laois where Shortall is now part of Liam Kearns’ management team. Carlow’s minors reached a first Leinster final in ’07. Encouraging but senior-wise, struggles set to continue. SFC draw matched them with Meath at Croke Park on May 18.
NFL status: Division 4 NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Clare (away); Feb 9 v Offaly (home); Feb 17 v London (away); Mar 2 bye; Mar 15 v Antrim (away); Mar 30 v Tipperary (home); Apr 6 v Waterford (home); Apr 13 v Wicklow (away); Apr 20 v Kilkenny (home).
CAVAN
Donal Keogan Donal Keoghan’s second season opened with two wins from three Dr McKenna Cup games. Used the tournament to run the rule over as many prospects as possible. Some young hopefuls fared very well while Michael Lyng, Seanie Johnson, Dermot Sheridan, Gerald Pierson and Ronan Flanagan will all be back for the NFL. Pauric O’Reilly and Anthony Gaynor will be available after Ballinagh’s All-Ireland club commitments finish.
Donal (right) has a strong, maturing squad capable of turning over most on their day with the firepower they have, led by Jason O’Reilly. Last year’s highlight was promotion despite hampered by numerous injury setbacks – Lyng and Nicholas Walsh among those sidelined. Mixed results, good in parts, brought them to the Division Two semi-finals where they lost to Roscommon. Championship disappointed, losing to Down in a replay at Newry before a weakened side lost in the Qualifiers at Mayo. Compete at a higher NFL level in the restructured League in what should be a very competitive Division 2 – March run of Dublin (home), Meath (away) and Cork (home) three to examine promotion prospects.
NFL status: Division 2 NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Armagh (away); Feb 16 v Monaghan (home); Mar 1 v Dublin (home); Mar 15 v Meath (away); Mar 29 v Cork (home); Apr 6 v Westmeath (away); Apr 13 v Roscommon (away)
CLARE
Frank Doherty Frank Doherty arrived a few weeks back with a new broom, replacing Paidi O Se. Debut season as a senior inter-county team manager. Doherty remarked that the Banner was in need of a fresh start both on the pitch and off it. Opened campaign with McGrath Cup win over UCC adopting a route one approach. Stephen Hickey and Colm Dillon in attack and defensive prospect David Connole expected to be central to their efforts in Division 4. Over the seasons Clare have a decent record on home turf (host promotion rivals Antrim, Wicklow and Offaly in last round). Could make life awkward for all. Open SFC campaign against fellow Division 4 outfit Waterford on May 25 for the right to take on All-Ireland champions Kerry.
NFL status: Division 4 NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Carlow (home); Feb 9 v Tipperary (away); Feb 16 v Antrim (home); Mar 2 v Waterford (away); Mar 15 v Kilkenny (away); Mar 30 v Wicklow (home); Apr 6 bye; Apr 13 v Offaly (home); Apr 20 v London (away).
CORK
Teddy Holland Crisis, chaos, no Billy Morgan, county board and players at loggerheads, senior squad on strike, newly appointed manager Teddy Holland left high and dry pre-season with no panel making themselves available. He has been unable to have squad trials, play any games – Cork were forced to withdraw from the McGrath Cup and major question mark hangs over ability to field for NFL fixtures.
December and January were locked in stalemate, heated debate between players (most went on a team holiday to South America) and officials.
Strike or no strike, Cork have lost star defender Michael Shields. He has signed a two-year Aussie Rules contract with Carlton. The players’ non availability relates to the county board refusing to allow the team manager to appoint his own choice of selectors. Difficult to see how Cork will iron out board/player and manager/selectors/players differences to be a force this year in National League or SFC.
NFL status: Division 2 NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Meath (away); Feb 16 v Dublin (home); Mar 2 v Roscommon (away); Mar 15 v Westmeath (home); Mar 29 v Cavan (away); Apr 5 v Monaghan (home); Apr 13 v Armagh (away).
DERRY
Paddy Crozier IN October 2005, Paddy Crozier’s management aspirations secured the ultimate job in Derry football as successor to Mickey Moran. He was appointed for three years. This time-span is often suggested what a new manager requires to deliver what he believes possible. This, for Paddy, is year three and his formidable talent pool appears well placed to challenge on all fronts in 2008.
Kevin McCloy and Kevin McGuckin, two of the cornerstones of Derry’s defence, have swapped captain and vice-captain roles. Sean Marty Lockhart, Fergal Doherty, Allstar marksman Paddy Bradley and former Allstar play-maker Enda Muldoon are four more of a very experienced, high quality, inspirational core.
Crozier’s squad has talent to burn. 2007 All-Ireland quarter-finalists. Dominated Dublin second half inspired by the immense Doherty, McCloy and Bradley and should have won. Had they, may have gone all the way. The NFL was patchy, good in parts. It wasn’t until the Qualifiers after Monaghan dumped them out of the Ulster SFC that they showed what they were really about. Greater consistency and focus and Derry could be there or thereabouts when the trophies are handed out. Paddy’s final year of his initial term shoulders increased expectation. A team to keep an eye on.
NFL status: Division 1 NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Mayo (home); Feb 16 v Laois (away); Mar 2 v Kerry (away); Mar 15 v Kildare (home); Mar 30 v Galway (away); Apr 5 v Tyrone (home); Apr 13 v Donegal (away).
DONEGAL
Brian McIver KEVIN Cassidy’s selection by Brian McIver to captain the defending Division One champions was hardly something Kevin could have imagined six months ago. On a Saturday evening last July, his manager informed the players he was resigning. He told them they would be the last county team he would take charge of.
The lowest point of a roller-coaster ’07 for Brian McIver followed Donegal crashing out of the All-Ireland Qualifiers in the third round to a passionate and inspired Monaghan side. It starkly contrasted with the high experienced at Croke Park after Donegal won their first Division One league title against Mayo.
That led to natural speculation that McIver’s exciting team could make a massive impact on the Championship. Between Neil Gallagher lifting the NFL trophy and the start of the Ulster SFC things inexplicably unravelled. A Brian Dooher-driven Tyrone beat them in Ulster, then Monaghan finished their summer off.
An extraordinary few months followed. Brian had a change of mind and applied for the vacant manager’s post, was approved, and obviously he is convinced he can fit all the pieces of the jigsaw together to motivate and inspire a talented squad to achieve again, especially in the Championship. The new Division One set-up promises no favours. The next six months will be interesting to see how his players respond.
NFL status: Division 1 NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Kerry (home); Feb 17 v Mayo (away); Mar 2 v Kildare (away); Mar 15 v Galway (home); Mar 29 v Tyrone (away); Apr 6 v Laois (home); Apr 13 v Derry (home).
DOWN
Ross Carr One draw from seven NFL games, a draw (v Cavan) and win (v Cavan) from four SFC summer exams. No wins in the Dr McKenna Cup (drew with Antrim) to start off ’07 into the bargain. A disappointing return for Ross Carr (right) in his debut season as manager. Year two and better is hoped for as work continues to rebuild and develop a young squad.
Certainly will be keen to see a first NFL win, sooner rather than later. The eighth attempt to do so sees Carr’s side take on Sligo at home on February 2. They, like Fermanagh, Limerick and Louth, find themselves relocated from the old 1A/1B to Division 3. Given the standard of opposition, promotion places are expected to be hotly contested. Part of pre-season preparations was a training week in Portugal. With trips to Louth, Wexford and Leitrim another very challenging NFL campaign is ahead of them before travelling to Healy Park to face Tyrone in the Ulster SFC 1st round on June 8.
NFL status: Division 3 NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Sligo (home); Feb 17 v Louth (away); Mar 2 v Wexford (away); Mar 15 v Longford (home); Mar 29 v Limerick (home); Apr 6 v Leitrim (away); Apr 13 v Fermanagh (home).
DUBLIN
Paul Caffrey A hat-trick of Leinster titles, first for more than a decade, capped Paul Caffrey’s third year at the helm but, yet again, the Dubs’ massive expectations for All-Ireland glory were unfulfilled. They gave it a fair aul’ crack but the qualities of champions Kerry proved a fraction too much in the semi-finals. Derry arguably should have burst the bubble in a thrilling quarter-final shootout.
Caffrey’s three-year apppointment expired with the loss to Kerry, but it was no surprise when ‘Pillar’ was appointed for a fourth bid to bring home the bacon for the first time since 1995. Last season’s NFL faltered, caught early by a sensational fightback by Tyrone under Croke Park floodlights. They lost another three to finish fifth in Division 1A, out of title contention and out of the frame for the new-look Division One. Look the ante-post favourite to lead the charge for promotion (three home games in last four rounds). March will be key to promotion perhaps. Three Ulster sides back-to-back (Cavan, Monaghan and Armagh).
The big one, of course, is the Sam. Caffrey’s fourth attempt to drive the Dubs back to the All-Ireland summit begins on June 8 with a tricky test against Louth.
NFL status: Division 2
NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Westmeath (home); Apr 16 v Cork (away); Mar 1 v Cavan (away); Mar 15 v Monaghan (home); Mar 30 v Armagh (away); Apr 5 v Roscommon (home); Apr 13 v Meath (home).
FERMANAGH
Malachy O’Rourke The elusive Anglo-Celt. In all, 14 different management teams have been unable to deliver one of the biggest goals for Fermanagh senior football, an Ulster Championship title. Charlie Mulgrew gave it his best shot for four seasons, steered the county to a remarkable All-Ireland semi-final replay against Mayo, but the Ulster remained out of reach. The 15th manager to take on this challenge and others (NFL promotion and an extended All-Ireland run) is former county player Malachy O’Rourke (main picture). The Dr McKenna Cup offers early promise but the loss of double Allstar full-back Barry Owens for perhaps most of the League due to need of minor heart surgery will make promotion all the more difficult to challenge for. Seven defeats left Fermanagh bottom of Division 1A and relegated to the new-look Division 3. On paper a fairly evenly matched division. Scores were very hard come by last season until a fine effort pushed Tyrone close in the Championship. A win over Wexford in the Qualifiers was the best result secured in ’07. Malachy will endeavour to reignite the county’s talent and strengthen the side to significantly improve on that.
NFL status: Division 3 NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Leitrim (away); Feb 17 v Limerick (home); Mar 3 v Longford (away); Mar 16 v Louth (home); Mar 30 v Sligo (away); Apr v Wexford (home); Apr 13 v Down (away)
GALWAY
Liam Sammon For the first time in almost a decade, a Galway native is in charge of the Tribesmen’s senior football fortunes. Liam Sammon accepted the challenge to try and guide Galway back to the pinnacle he enjoyed during his playing career. Sammon was part of the 1966 All-Ireland SFC winning team against Meath. He was honoured in the very first Allstar team selected in 1971. He gained a second All Star in ’73.
Liam takes over from Peter Ford, whose three-year term ended with defeat to Meath in last summer’s All-Ireland Qualifiers. He has been appointed for three years. Liam won a couple of Galway senior titles with Fr Griffin’s during his playing career while in more recent times was a key figure in the Salthill club. He recently retired from his teaching post at Galway’s St Mary’s College.
His first game in charge, in the FBD Connacht League, resulted in a win over Sligo. Inherits a squad of experience and youth.
Galway open NFL account in the new-look, hugely challenging Division 1 at home to Laois.
NFL status: Division 1 NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Laois (home); Feb 17 v Kildare (away); Mar 2 v Tyrone (home); Mar 15 v Donegal (away); Mar 30 v Derry (home); Apr 6 v Mayo (away); Apr 13 v Kerry (home).
KERRY
Pat O’Shea Seamless transition from the team Jack O’Connor built, Pat O’Shea inherited, with Jack’s All-Ireland high followed by Pat’s Championship pay-off last September. Business as usual and made Kerry obvious favourites to keep Sam in the Kingdom for another 12 months minimum.
O’Shea made a few adjustments. Aidan O’Mahony switched to centre-back to man Moynihan’s old stomping ground, Killian Young slotted superbly into left half, Padraig Reidy left-back, Declan O’Sullivan was restored and Seamus Scanlon developed as Darragh O Se’s midfield partner.
Eventually, when it mattered, worked a treat, though not without a few edge-of-the-seat moments, most notably against Monaghan in thriller of an All-Ireland quarter-final.
O’Shea’s first season in charge finished in cruise control mode. Once Monaghan’s young guns were reeled in and Dublin’s mighty aspirations broken, a comedy of defensive errors resulted in a free-wheeling All-Ireland SFC win against Cork in the counties’ first showdown for the Sam Maguire. As soon as Colm Cooper punched the air, the ball and rattled Cork’s net talk turned to three-in-a-row and a first treble possibility since the 1984-’86 era.
Monaghan and Dublin stretched them – experience and composure proving so critical in the last quarter hour against a superb effort by Banty’s boys – but otherwise it was fairly trouble free.
The League nudged along without too much to write home about.
Kerry may hold the NFL titles record but have gained few successes in last 11 years. The All-Ireland is always main order of business and is again with the three-in-a-row goal the motivator.
The new Division One section promises strong tests right down the line before the SFC gets up and running. Kerry are unlikely to show too much of their hand before then.
They begin the League at champions Donegal with tasty home trials against Tyrone and Derry to follow in quick succession. End of the day, come the summer the team to beat.
NFL status: Division One NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Donegal (away); Feb 16 v Tyrone (home); Mar 2 v Derry (home); Mar 16 v Mayo (away); Mar 29 v Laois (away); Apr 5 v Kildare (home); Apr 13 v Galway (away).
KILDARE
Kieran McGeeney Kieran McGeeney’s inspirational, talismanic qualities as a player, in his footballing ability, leadership and attitude to the game, gained ‘Geezer’ legendary status in Armagh. His senior county career spanned nine years. It was fittingly capped by captaincy of the team that won the county’s first All-Ireland SFC title in 2002. Six Ulster titles, three Allstar awards, captaincy of Ireland’s International Rules squad in 2006, club success at Armagh and Ulster SFC levels with Mullaghbawn, at Dublin and Leinster SFC levels with Na Fianna and, in 2002, recognition as Texaco Footballer of the Year, fills out McGeeney’s outstanding CV.
He made his senior debut for Armagh in 1998. A decade on, Kieran will experience his debut as a senior county manager at a ground he knows very well, Omagh’s Healy Park, on February 2 against arguably his greatest Ulster rivals when a player, Tyrone.
Outside of Ulster interest, northern football fans will be keeping a close eye on his progress with Kildare.
If he can translate all the qualities that marked him out as one of the great Ulster footballers of the past decade, inspire improved competitiveness, standard and consistency, the Lilywhites may in time start again to push Dublin, Meath and Laois at Leinster SFC level and others beyond its boundary.
He succeeds John Crofton who departed after last summer’s surprise Qualifier defeat to Roscommon. Kildare were Division One semi-finalists in 2007 but injuries to key players – both midfielders Dermot Early and Killian Brennan – unhinged their season. Johnny Doyle is a prolific scorer for them, but improvement around him is required if they are to challenge.
Kieran has Paul Grimley with him. Paul’s experience in management with Armagh and Cavan will be invaluable. Kieran’s SFC debut is on May 18 against Wicklow managed by the last man to inspire major success in Kildare, Mick O’Dwyer.
NFL status: Division One NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Tyrone (away); Feb 17 v Galway (home); Mar 2 v Donegal (home); Mar 15 v Derry (away); Mar 30 v Mayo (home); Apr 5 v Kerry (away); Apr 13 v Laois (away).
KILKENNY
Tom Brennan Tom Brennan is the man at the helm as Kilkenny return to NFL competition after a long absence.
He said they face “a tough job” to get through the League where heavy defeats are likely to be the order of the day. Brennan’s aim is a long term one. The goal is to move Kilkenny football forward so that they can field a competitive team in Leinster’s Junior Championship.
Massive effort in the hurling dominated county to allocate the coaching expertise, organisation and funding support for football growth will be essential. They lost in the O’Byrne Cup to Carlow by 13 points and recently by more than 30 to Laois.
It is important Kilkenny develop their football and hopefully they will not be discouraged again by what are likely to be difficult NFL learning days ahead.
NFL status: Division Four NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Tipperary (home); Feb 9 v Antrim (away); Feb 16 v Waterford (home); Mar 2 v Wicklow (away); Mar 15 v Clare (home); Mar 30 bye; Apr 6 v Offaly (away); Apr 13 v London (home); Apr 20 v Carlow (away).
LAOIS
Liam Kearns Liam Kearns took over from Mick O’Dwyer for 2007. Three wins and three draws left them level with Derry, joint third in the Division 1B standings, just shy of the NFL semi-finals. After wins over Longford and Wexford in the Leinster SFC lack of scoring depth and defensive lapses resulted in finishing two goals behind Dublin in the provincial final. Well beaten next time of asking by Derry in the Qualifiers.
In the emerging Michael Tierney have one of the finest young attacking talents in the country. He opened his season’s account in the O’Byrne Cup loss to Wexford with eight points. Laois need Ross Munnelly, Brendan Quigley and Donie Brennan playing at a consistently high level. Work to do on the defence too and challenge added to by speculation concerning possible retirements of former Allstar duo Tom Kelly and Joe Higgins. Former Allstar ‘keeper Fergal Byron has retired and play-maker Chris Conway informed management he’s unavailable. Request for a pre-season training trip to either Spain or Portugal was turned down by the board in the light of financial situation. Kearns may have a relegation fight on his hands. Home games versus Derry and Mayo are crucial. SFC opens June 1 against Kildare or Wicklow.
NFL status: Division One
NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Galway (away); Feb 16 v Derry (home); Mar 1 v Mayo (home); Mar 15 v Tyrone (away); Mar 29 v Kerry (home); Apr 6 v Donegal (away); Apr 13 v Kildare (home).
LEITRIM
Dessie Dolan In his fourth season as manager, Dessie Dolan seeks to build on a steady if unspectacular and unlucky ’07. Had a few too many tough hands dealt to them last year.
Pushed Galway all the way in the Connacht Championship and took Donegal to extra-time in the All-Ireland Qualifiers (Leitrim are still seeking a first win in the Qualfiers since the format was introduced in 2001).
A settled and maturing squad won four from seven games in Division 2A to avoid being demoted to the new-look Division Four. Squeezed out of a League semi-final place by Roscommon. Leitrim need to develop more cutting edge in the final third as this Division Three structure contains teams (Limerick, Fermanagh, Louth and Down) relegated from last year’s Division 1A and 1B.
Retaining status will stretch them in a group that offers good opportunities for development ahead of their SFC opener in New York on May 11.
NFL status: Division Three NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Fermanagh (home); Feb 17 v Longford (away); Mar 2 v Louth (away); Mar 16 v Sligo (home); Mar 30 v Wexford (away); Apr 6 v Down (home); Apr 13 v Limerick (away).
LIMERICK
Mickey Ned O’Sullivan Mickey Ned O’Sullivan is in for a third year. Dual player availability is always an issue with Limerick. They have lost a number of experienced campaigners in the last couple of years also. Won one and drew one from seven Division 1A games last season. Finished next to Fermanagh in the relegation zone and were demoted to Division Three. Lacked scoring forwards in ’07 and struggled to make any impact.
Physically powerful side but in need of improved quality, especially in the final third. Should find Division Three surroundings more suited to developing new players than the top flight.
Finish with two home games against Longford and Leitrim, which could determine whether they challenge for promotion or to avert relegation.
NFL status: Division 3 NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Louth (home); Feb 17 v Fermanagh (away); Mar 2 v Sligo (away); Mar 16 v Wexford (home); Mar 29 v Down (away); Apr 6 v Longford (home); Apr 13 v Leitrim (home).
LONDON
Noel Dunning No change from last season. Noel Dunning continues as manager with former St Eunan’s goalkeeper Brian McBrearty, who will line out for British champions Tir Chonaill Gaels against All-Ireland title-holders Crossmaglen in the AIB Championship on January 27, re-appointed as London’s captain.
The NFL restructuring should be of benefit. London are capable of being more competitive in the new-look Division Four after managing to win one of seven games in Division 2A last year.
GAA clubs in London are working hard to develop football and hurling and it’s been suggested that within the next decade or so future county teams will be made up of more English-born players and players of American, African and Asian backgrounds. London’s senior hurling team indicated the progress being made last year by fielding four English players in the Ulster Championship.
With Kilkenny involved, the NFL offers eight games and if they are to compete in the shake-up for promotion key games at home are against Carlow, Antrim, Wicklow and Clare.
Form at Ruislip will be a guide to their chances of upsetting the applecart big style on May 25 when Connacht champions Sligo visit in the SFC 1st round.
NFL status: Division Four NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Offaly (away); Feb 9 bye; Feb 17 v Carlow (home); Mar 2 v Tipperary (away); Mar 16 v Waterford (away); Mar 30 v Antrim (home); Apr 6 v Wicklow (home); Apr 13 v Kilkenny (away); Apr 20 v Clare (home).
LONGFORD
Luke Dempsey Luke Dempsey (below) returns for a third year. Plans have been hit by the decision of versatile Fr Manning Gaels veteran David Hannify to call time on his inter-county career.
Inter-pro players Paul Barden and Declan Reilly are expected back for the NFL after spells sidelined with injuries. David Barden is also due to be part of the League campaign that will again depend greatly on the scores delivered by Allstar nominee Brian Kavanagh.
Encouraging wins over Kildare and Meath in the O’Byrne Cup boosted morale ahead of the Division Three promotion challenge. Kavanagh’s prolific finishing is central to their prospects.
Home ties back-to-back versus Leitrim and Fermanagh in rounds 2/3 will indicate whether they can push for the top placings as they close out against Limerick and Sligo.
Home draw against Westmeath offers potential for a run in the Leinster SFC as winners face Offaly for a semi-final rattle on June 29 against Dublin or Louth.
NFL status: Division Three NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Wexford (away); Feb 17 v Leitrim (home); Mar 2 v Fermanagh (home); Mar 15 v Down (away); Mar 30 v Louth (home); Apr 6 v Limerick (away); Apr 13 v Sligo (home).
LOUTH
Eamonn McEneaney Next phase of Eamonn McEneaney’s five-year plan. It begins at Limerick on February 3. Louth have produced some excellent results but found life in Division 1B tough last season after winning Division Two the year before. Ended up second bottom, above Down, missing out on Division Two regrading by a whisker to Armagh and Westmeath after Derry cut through them at Celtic Park in closing rounds. Louth have a good spread of scoring forwards – Darren Clarke, Mark Stanfield, Aaron Hoey and Shane Lennon among their number – and one of the top midfielders around in Paddy Keenan. With improved consistency can figure in the promotion shake-up given the scoring forwards they have. Were expected to do a bit better in ’07. If they can stay reasonably injury free will prove very tough to deal with. Promotion objective aside (back-to-back home against Down and Leitrim and a test at Fermangh will indicate whether it’s a possibility beyond March 16), the big focus in the Championship and the tremendous prospect of taking on Leinster four-in-a-row chasing champions Dublin on June 8.
NFL status: Division Three NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Limerick (away); Feb 17 v Down (home); Mar 2 v Leitrim (home); Mar 16 v Fermanagh (away); Mar 30 v Longford (away); Apr 6 v Sligo (home); Apr 13 v Wexford (away).
MAYO
John O’Mahony If there was a prize for consistency other than the cliche ‘cigar’ of trophy success in the National League, towards the head of the queue for it would be Mayo. NFL winners in 2001, semi-finalists in ’02, semi-finalists in each of the last three seasons, beaten finalists in ’07 to Donegal.
John O’Mahony (main picture) failed to land a shipment of silverware in political election year, his debut season as Mayo manager. Highs and lows (defeat to Derry in the All-Ireland Qualifiers ended their summer interest) assessed, he gave new talent given a run in the FBD Connacht League this month as a dozen regulars were unavailable.
Revised Division One will provide tougher, competitively balanced exams through the spring than last season’s 1A grouping. If they can continue to be consistent in qualifying for the play-off stages, Mayo will then be well placed for the summer challenge. Conor Mortimer and co offer plenty of attacking flair and potential.
Midfield is solid with improved performance sought.
Defence has appeared the area requiring greater steel and quality consistency to shorten odds on earning a major ‘cigar’ beyond the province.
A recent Ladbrokes bookmaker promotion of a E1,000 charity bet was taken up by John, placing the flutter on Mayo to win the All-Ireland in ’08. Odds given – 20/1. He opted for this than ‘a tip’, he said at the time, on a horse. The ‘tip’ won at 4/1. NFL challenge starts away to the team that cut short last season.
NFL status: Division One NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Derry (away); Feb 17 v Donegal (home); Mar 1 v Laois (away); Mar 16 v Kerry (home); Mar 30 v Kildare (away); Apr 6 v Galway (home); Apr 13 v Tyrone (away).
MEATH
Colm Coyle Youthful excellence and exuberance eventually ran out of fizz and fortune in the 2007 All-Ireland semi-finals. Colm Coyle seeks to move Meath forward from that very promising summer adventure highlighted by a draw with Dublin, narrow replay loss and Qualifier wins over Fermanagh and Galway and quarter-final eclipse of injury-hit Tyrone. Fatigue and a flat performance resulted in semi-final to Cork but there is no doubt Coyle is working with a highly talented bunch.
He will endeavour to bring them along with a steady NFL campaign (beat Roscommon in Division Two final last April) before the next summer quest starts back at Croke Park on May 18 against Paul Bealin’s Carlow for the right to take on Wexford for a place in the semi-finals. Opening game in Division 2 is shrouded in uncertainty, as it is supposed to be at home to crisis-torn Cork who haven’t been able to prepare a squad due to a players strike. That aside, Meath look to have a reasonable schedule before the 4th round matches them at home to Cavan. Last three regulation games are against Monaghan, Armagh and Dublin, the first and third of them away. Good tests to see where they are at before the SFC.
Coyle welcomes back 23-year-old forward Joe Sheridan. He surprisingly opted out of the panel during 2007 and was a spectator as Stephen Bray, Cian Ward, Shane O’Rourke and Brian Farrell led the line with Graham Geraghty against the Dubs and Co. Sheridan cited the need for a rest. His addition is a boost to a squad of exciting potential.
NFL status: Division Two NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Cork (home); Feb 17 v Roscommon (away); Mar 2 v Westmeath (away); Mar 15 v Cavan (home); Mar 30 v Monaghan (away); Apr 5 v Armagh (home); Apr 13 v Dublin (away).
MONAGHAN
Seamus McEnaney One of the hits of the Sam ’07 series. Seamus McEnaney’s young players contributed brilliantly to the All-Ireland title run-in. So unlucky not to hang in there for another five minutes, find another score from somewhere, to shock Kerry in the quarter-finals. There was really no way Seamus could leave it at that after his third year running the ship.
He has repeatedly emphasised Monaghan’s progression since he took over isn’t just down to what his passion and drive to make the county competitive again at the very highest level brings to the table. His ability to secure the ‘best in the country’ expertise and innovative approach of coach Martin McElkennon was a huge factor last year as was Adrian Trappe.
McEnaney’s fourth season sees the bar raised further. As he stressed a few weeks ago, for all the drama and delight of ’07 others managed to crack the combination codes for League (despite finishing top of Division 2A after seven straights wins) and Championship silver.
One objective was to finish in 2A’s top two. That secured important Division 2 status for this campaign. Promotion to the elite bracket is priority one for the NFL. A trophy at the end of it wouldn’t go amiss either. Seamus will then turn to trying to win the Ulster SFC (last year’s win at Pairc Esler against Down was his first as manager).
Close to it last summer before seeing off Donegal in the Qualifiers and giving Kerry a serious scare. Maturing squad will have to deal with greater expectation because of it. Difficult NFL section. Key games include Dublin and Meath back-to-back tests in mid-to-late March. Start SFC on May 25 at Enniskillen.
NFL status: Division Two NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Roscommon (home); Feb 16 v Cavan (away); Mar v Armagh (home); Mar 15 v Dublin (away); Mar 30 v Meath (home); Apr 5 v Cork (away); Apr 13 v Westmeath (home).
OFFLAY
Pat Roe Pat Roe returns for another season and has stated his wish is for Offaly is to get out of Division 4. Four defeats in Division 2A last year cost them dearly as, once out of the Leinster SFC, they were ruled out of the Qualifiers and pitched into the Tommy Murphy Cup. Crashed out of that to eventual winners Wicklow by five points to see summer ended in first week of July.
Roe wants to avoid a return to the TMC. To achieve this, must finish top or second in their new League grouping. Unlike many other counties pre-season used the O’Byrne Cup not to blood players but assess all in terms of who would start the NFL in the first 15.
Offaly, a Division 1A outfit only two seasons ago, should punch above the weight of most if not all in their division but influential Karol Slattery may miss a good part of it due to injury.
Leinster SFC starts for them against Longford (Pearse Park) or home to Westmeath on June 7.
NFL status: Division Four NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v London (home); Feb 9 v Carlow (away); Feb 16 v Tipperary (home); Mar 1 v Antrim (away); Mar 16 v Wicklow (away); Mar 30 v Waterford (home); Apr 6 v Kilkenny (home); Apr 13 v Clare (away); Apr 20 bye.
ROSCOMMON
John Maughan John Maughan, appointed in late ’05 after spell at Fermanagh, inherited a squad that finished third from bottom in Division 2A. The Rossies managed third in ’06, second last season before qualifying to play Meath in the non-promotion Division Two final. Ger Heneghan’s prolific marksmanship was central to the run. A greater spread of responsibility for scores is required to progress this season. Heneghan, Gary Cox and Karol Mannion will be supported by the recalled Frankie Dolan. Senan Kilbride and Jonathan Dunning are also back in favour while Maughan has developed the panel with the additions of several of the 2006 All-Ireland MFC winning squad. Tough draw to start NFL. Go to Monaghan, then host Meath. Tail end of it no easier – away to Dublin and home to Cavan. Promotion looks a longshot. Tough Connacht SFC draw also. Go to Galway in round one on May 18.
NFL status: Division Two NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Monaghan (away); Feb 17 v Meath (home); Mar 2 v Cork (home); Mar 16 v Armagh (away); Mar 30 v Westmeath (home); Apr 5 v Dublin (away); Apr 13 v Cavan (home).
SLIGO
Tommy Jordan One of the nine management changes from 2007 is Tommy Jordan’s appointment as successor to Tommy Breheny. Jordan takes on his first senior county post sporting an impressive club management CV – he took Crossmolina to three Mayo titles, two Connacht and the 2001 All-Ireland title. Target is back-to-back provincial titles, a huge task any year, exceptionally so given the gap between the county’s first and second title wins was 45 years.
NFL returns were average the past two years. Campaigned in 2B, finishing fourth last year and mid-table in ’06. Former Allstar Eamonn O’Hara, Allstar nominated corner back Ross Donovan, centre half-back Michael McNamara and forwards Mark Brehony, Sean Davey and Gerry McGowan provide the backbone. Scoring weaknesses are constant. Connacht title defence begins at London on May 25. Winners play Mayo. Before then, tough tests in the League. Open at Down. Two a way games to finish at Louth and Longford.
NFL status: Division Three
NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Down (away); Feb 17 v Wexford (home); Mar 2 v Limerick (home); Mar 16 v Leitrim (away); Mar 30 v Fermanagh (home); Apr 6 v Louth (away); Apr 13 v Longford (away).
TIPPERARY
John Evans Kerry’s former U21 manager John Evans has taken over from John Owens.
First order of business was to talk to two-time Allstar forward Declan Browne who announced his retirement at the age of 29 last autumn. Browne stated his belief that the county board had secured a first class manager in Evans but in December said he would not be going back on the decision to retire.
This is a major setback for the Premier’s fortunes.
Slow starters in most games last season. Lost five of seven in Div 2B to finish second last. On the slide since Tommy Murphy Cup win in 2005. Evans appointed for two years. Not taken to challenge for Division 4 honours while SFC starts versus Limerick on May 25.
NFL status: Division Four NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Kilkenny (away); Feb 9 v Clare (home); Feb 16 v Offaly (away); Mar 2 v London (home); Mar 16 bye; Mar 30 v Carlow (away); Apr 6 v Antrim (home); Apr 13 v Waterford (away); Apr 20 v Wicklow (home).
TYRONE
Mickey Harte For last August’s All-Ireland SFC Qualifier against Meath 12 panellists were unavailable because of various injuries. After a terrible 2006 blighted by key players being sidelined, amazingly ‘07 wasn’t much better for manager Mickey Harte. In terms of injuries, they have been prohibitatively taxed, decimating squads and their ability to challenge for major titles since winning a second All-Ireland (2005) in three seasons. Peter Canavan’s retirement was an influential factor also.
Surely though, fortunes, on the injury front, will turn as this season gathers pace. With so many key players missing large portions of the past two years, most notably former All Stars Brian McGuigan and Stephen O’Neill, plenty of young prospects were handed opportunities to gain experience and stake claims, including the likes of Raymond Mulgrew, Tommy McGuigan and Colm Cavanagh. Tyrone may reap the dividends of youth development this year.
Added to that, most if not all of their experienced Championship players are expected to return in the coming weeks. Joe McMahon, Ryan McMenamin and Sean Cavanagh should be recovered from setbacks to feature in the NFL next month. It is hoped Brian McGuigan will be ready to resume League football in February also.
Harte will extend a Cead Mile Failte to former Armagh star Kieran McGeeney when he arrives at Healy Park for a floodlit first round game in Division One on February 2 to experience his NFL debut as manager of Kildare. Game on after that. Tyrone hitting the National League ground running will be what Harte wants to see on the night. In the former Division 1A Tyrone were not out of the top four in the last five campaigns (topped the section in 2003, ‘04 and ‘05). It would surprise if they are not there or thereabouts again, but the main objective is SFC success. Ulster’s challenge starts home to Down on June 8.
NFL status: Division One NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Kildare (home); Feb 16 v Kerry (away); Mar 2 v Galway (away); Mar 15 v Laois (home); Mar 29 v Donegal (home); Apr 5 v Derry (away); Apr 13 v Mayo (home).
WATERFORD
John Kiely Fourth year in charge for John Kiely. Decies cause the odd shock or surprise here and there. In ’06 took Carlow’s scalp. Last year, better again, stunning Wexford in round one of the Division 2B schedule. Pushed Sligo close but the Model upset could not be repeated. Lost six in-a-row to prop up the section. The big success arrived in the Munster SFC at Fraher Field in Dungarvan against Clare. A 1-6 to 0-7 win – Waterford’s first in senior Championship for 19 years – was their stand-out result. Flagged up the departure of Paidi O Se as Clare manager. Division 4 offers chance for progress from basement places to mid-table. Good Munster SFC draw sees them go to Ennis on May 25. All-Ireland champions Kerry await winners.
NFL status: Division Four NFL fixtures: Feb 3 bye; Feb 9 v Wicklow (home); Feb 16 v Kilkenny (away) Mar 2 v Clare (home); Mar 16 v London (home); Mar 30 v Offaly (away); Apr 6 v Carlow (away); Apr 13 v Tipperary (home); Apr 20 v Antrim (away).
WESTMEATH
Tomas O Flatharta Without Dessie Dolan and several others slumped to a heavy defeat against Dublin in the O’Byrne Cup tune-up. Face the Dubs in round one of the League. On paper look relegation favourites from a very strong Division 2 section. Tomas O Flatharta was reappointed for a third term and has his work cut out to avoid the trap door. Task not helped by Donal O’Donoghue asking not to be considered after the O’Byrne Cup loss.
Bustling forward Denis Glennon, a Sigerson Cup panelist with Garda College, has yet to confirm if he will play for the county this year. Glennon is reported to be unsettled. Dessie Dolan, an Allstar in 2004, continues to be their key man. There were not too many positives from last season. Round 2/3 home games against Armagh and Meath and March 30 game at Roscommon crucial to survival. Start Leinster SFC against Longford. Need improved forward unit. NFL points may be hard to find before summer trip to Pearse Park on May 11.
NFL status: Division Two NFL fixtures: Feb 2 v Dublin (away); Feb 17 v Armagh (home); Mar 2 v Meath (home); Mar 15 v Cork (away); Mar 30 v Roscommon (away); Apr 6 v Cavan (home); Apr 13 v Monaghan (away).
WEXFORD
Jason Ryan ONE of the youngest senior managers in county football is newly appointed Jason Ryan. He stepped into vacancy created by Paul Bealin’s controversial departure following claimed problems with the county board. Bealin quitting led to at least one high profile player, Rory Stafford, to question whether he would line out this season. Winter of discontent, speculation over possibilities of either former Meath manager Sean Boylan or Laois U21 manager Sean Dempsey taking up the post. Ryan though caught attention in Wexford in ’07 by coaching Clongeen to a first SFC title win.
He will hope that achievement can galvanise the squad and prevent the loss of any players. Drawn in Division 3, home form will be key to promotion prospects as Wexford host four main rivals – Longford, Down, Leitrim and Louth. Form of former Allstar forward Mattie Forde (below) is another key element. Forde’s O’Byrne Cup returns suggested a bit of rediscovered sparkle. John Hudson and PJ Banville should figure after injury absences. 2005 NFL finalists (lost to Armagh), they just missed out on a Division Two semi-final last year – the penalty for a shock early defeat at Waterford. SFC begins on June 1 against Meath or Carlow who dumped them out of the O’Byrne last week.
NFL status: Division Three NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Longford (home); Feb 17 v Sligo (away); Mar 2 v Down (home); Mar 16 v Limerick (away); Mar 30 v Leitrim (home); Apr 6 v Fermanagh (away); Apr 13 v Louth (home).
WICKLOW
Mick O’Dwyer Mick O’Dwyer, now 72, will miss the initial stages of the NFL after undergoing a hip replacement operation. Arthur French assumed the managerial role for their Tommy Murphy Cup win over Antrim and will take charge for the League’s early games as Micko recuperates assisted by selector Kevin O’Brien.
Wicklow will be looking to push on from that TMC winning finish to 2007 and should be one of those challenging at the high end of Division 4. Promotion places carry with them SFC benefits as a top two finish avoids being graded in the Tommy Murphy Cup once knocked out of the Championship. Wicklow gave Leinster a tremendous crack last summer. Louth only managed to beat them after three first round battles after their initial replay ended a draw after extra-time.
Three wins from seven games in the NFL last term consigned them to inclusion in the restructure Division 4 but their summer efforts suggest they are capable of getting themselves out of the basement section. Face a fascinating opener against the county they so dramatically beat at the end of extra-time at Croke Park for the TMC, Antrim, at home. Promotion challenge hampered though by temporary loss of talisman Leighton Glynn. He underwent groin surgery recently and while back in light training is expected to miss the early rounds. Bonus there is that Waterford and Kilkenny are their second and third opponents. In the Leinster SFC open May 18 versus Kieran McGeeney’s Kildare.
NFL status: Division Four NFL fixtures: Feb 3 v Antrim (home); Feb 9 v Waterford (away); Feb 16 bye; Mar 2 v Kilkenny (home); Mar 16 v Offaly (home); Mar 30 v Clare (away); Apr 6 v London (away); Apr 13 v Carlow (home); Apr 20 v Tipperary (away)
ANTRIM
ARMAGH
CARLOW
CAVAN
CLARE
CORK
DERRY
DONEGAL
DOWN
DUBLIN
FERMANAGH
GALWAY
KERRY
KILDARE
KILKENNY
LAOIS
LEITRIM
LIMERICK
LONDON
LONGFORD
LOUTH
MAYO
MEATH
MONAGHAN
OFFLAY
ROSCOMMON
SLIGO
TIPPERARY
TYRONE
WATERFORD
WESTMEATH
WEXFORD
WICKLOW
