MONAGHAN'S U21 manager Finbarr Fitzpatrick believes championship opponents Derry have an unmistakable advantage having already come through last week's preliminary round game against Down.
The Oak Leafers, managed by Paul McIver, looked in fine fettle following last Wednesday's three-point victory over the Mournemen at Celtic Park.
Despite a raft of absentees, including the Slaughtneil and Glen contingent, Derry proved they have significant strength in depth with Terence O'Brien (0-3), Niall Loughlin (1-4) and Niall Toner (1-0) doing the damage for McIver's side.
"Derry have a championship match under their belts and Cavan came from the preliminary round last year and went on to win it," said Fitzpatrick, now in his third year as U21 manager.
"It certainly gives Derry an advantage. While we've played a lot of good, competitively challenge matches over the last nine or 10 weeks there is nothing quite like a championship match."
McIver is likely to name the same squad that overcame Down while Monaghan will be depending heavily on senior duo Ryan Wylie and Ryan McAnespie (above) to give the home side the edge and progress to the semi-finals.
"Ryan Wylie and Ryan McAnespie are the only two players involved at senior level this year and have had significant game-time both in the McKenna Cup and the League whereas in previous years we maybe had more on the fringes of the senior panel."
Daniel McKenna, Conor Boyle and Thomas Kerr are just some of the players that have graduated to the Farney county's senior ranks.
Monaghan, who last won the Ulster U21 title in 1999, have struggled to establish any momentum in the provincial series over the last couple of seasons.
"Like every other manager out there, I think ultimately you approach the competition to win it," said Fitzpatrick.
"But there are so many variables at U21 level sandwiched in between college competitions and National League games, so you can't look beyond your first round game.
"Over the last couple of seasons we've been undone by the Cavan juggernaut - they've beaten us twice - and I certainly wouldn't underestimate their quest for five in a row this year. You can't look beyond them although they have a very tough opener against Donegal in Ballybofey. So there will be huge motivation in Donegal."