ULSTER sides are back in National league action this weekend. Derry, Antrim and tyrone will all be hoping to record their first wins of the season, while Down and Armagh will be hoping to build on their last outings victories.
In Division One, a young and new look Derry side will face a stern test when they take a well-organised limerick side at Dunganny. The Oak leaf manager Joe Baldwin said that he was looking for a positive performance from his side.
"We are still in a transition period, new management has come in and we are still all feeling each other out and getting used to each other," he said.
"This is only our second game, the league will be used as a stepping stone to get us to where we want to be come championship-time.
"sunday will provide us with an opportunity to use the panel again.
"More players, including Eoghan Rua's Megan Kerr and Claire Tracey, have joined up with the squad but we are still missing Karen Kielt through injury. Maria Mooney, Maureen Hennegan and Aileen McCusker are all away as well so we have a chance to get a look at other players.
"We have a panel of 34 girls, all of whom are good club players in Derry, so we will be looking for them to be competitive and contest every ball."
Down will be at home to laois in Newry in Division two, the game will feature as a double-header with the NHl clash between Down and Mayo. The Mourne girls showed great character in the second half of their last match, finishing strongly to overcome neighbours Antrim.
Portaferry ace Niamh Mallon put on a fine display, while debutants Niamh Haggard, Jenny Fowler, Caoimhe Crossey, Claire Coulter, Maria Rodgers and Aoife savage all performed well alongside the more experienced players on the panel.
In the other Division two game, Antrim will face Kilkenny and Cathaoir Cunning's charges will be hoping to build on their display against Down. The saffrons put in a fine performance despite suffering defeat, with Orlagh McCall, Natalie McGuinness, Emma McMullan, Emma Connolly and Nicole O'Neill all starring.
Armagh and Tyrone are also in action against Dublin sides in Division three and Four respectively. The Orchard county will hope to keep their winning run going having seen off roscommon in their last outing, while tyrone will be searching for their first victory of the season at Healy Park.