Tailteann Cup quarter-final: Fermanagh v Sligo (Saturday, Brewster Park, 5pm)
Fermanagh manager Declan Bonner know that the visit of Sligo to Brewster Park represents the sternest test yet to their Tailteann Cup ambitions.
These neighbours met at the same stage of last year’s competition in Enniskillen, when the Ernemen edged a close‑fought contest 0-21 to 1-16.
Their most recent meeting, however, came in February’s National League, when a sharp, energetic Sligo side inflicted a fully deserved 1-19 to 0-15 defeat on the Erne men — a result that contributed to Fermanagh’s relegation to Division Four.
Fermanagh come into this weekend’s clash on the back of a big win over New York, continuing their recent scoring surge with a 3-27 haul to add to strong tallies against Armagh in the Ulster SFC and Longford and Wexford in the Tailteann Cup.
Sligo, meanwhile, enjoyed a comfortable victory over London and, more significantly, welcomed back Eddie McGuinness, Nathan Mullen, Canice Mulligan and Sean Carrabine.
“Sligo is going to be a huge test for us — they beat us easily in the League, so we know exactly what we’re up against,” said Fermanagh boss Declan Bonner.
“Those four lads are massive players for them, so they’ll be coming to Brewster with a very strong hand.
“We had a good run-out against New York, but the whole focus now is on Sligo.”
A major positive for Bonner was seeing Ultan Kelm start for the first time in 18 months.
“It was great to get him back and he played very well. The young lads like Mattie McDermott and Conor O’Hanlon are doing well too, which is brilliant.
“We were back training on Sunday morning. This is a real derby and it’ll be a proper championship match with knockout football. We’re looking forward to it, even though it’s a massive test.”
Fermanagh have played all three of the Tailteann Cup games at home this year and that entitles them to a home quarter-final.
Bonner is keen that the county’s supporters come out in numbers to help them turn the Enniskillen venue into a fortress.
“There should be a good crowd in Brewster Park and it’s very important that Fermanagh fans turn out in force to give us that 16th man,” he said.
“We’ve had three games there on the bounce and we have to make sure Brewster Park is a fortress. We’ve another opportunity on Saturday evening.
“Yes, the players have a big responsibility, but the supporters have a big role too. It’s great to see all the children playing at half-time — that generates a brilliant atmosphere.”
Bonner expects a fierce contest.
“Sligo have a very strong team with pace and physique all over the pitch — but so do we. It could be a titanic battle. Where else would you rather be.”
Asked about Fermanagh’s recent scoring form, with Darragh McGurn in excellent touch, he added:
“It’s not just the forwards — defenders are getting forward and scoring too, which is great. That’s the modern game. We had 12 different scorers on Saturday.
“Every player has to be a threat, but we’ll get a real test this weekend and it’s important we keep the foot down and get the job done against Sligo.”
So how have Fermanagh shaken off the League disappointment to find form in the summer?
“One thing you learn in management is not to get too high or too low when you’ve been around as long as I have,” Bonner said.
“At no stage in the League did we feel we weren’t putting in the work. The attitude was great throughout and thankfully we’re pushing on now.”
Bonner says several players have stepped up — and competition for places has improved.
“A lot of lads have stood up, but we all need to be ready for the challenge Sligo will bring.
“Fionan O’Brien, Paul Breen, Glenn Treacy and Jack Largo Ellis are still out injured, but otherwise we have a very strong squad. It’s been a very positive few weeks.
“Now let’s get the Fermanagh crowd behind this team and get ourselves into the last four in Croke Park.”