N.Y. GAA Previews Crucial hurling, football games down for decision

By Mike Fitzpatrick

12:30 p.m.

JFA

Sligo vs. Tyrone

Tyrone juniors have proven to be on a different course than their senior counterparts. While the senior team sit proudly atop their division, Tyrone’s second string are languishing at the bottom of junior Div. A.

Having lost all four games which they’ve contested so far, the Ulster side will certainly be out for victory over a Sligo side which lies one place above them in the standings.

But having already defeated Tyrone this year, Sligo will be out to make it a double and, in doing so, improve their playoff chances.

2 p.m.

SH

Limerick vs. Waterford

This is one not to be missed.

Title hopefuls Limerick come face to face with this fancied young Waterford side in a clash which will have a major say as to who tops the table at the end of the day.

For either side to gain the championship points here, a place in the playoffs will look extremely close indeed. In fact, whoever wins this one, will sit proudly atop the division.

Waterford have surprised everyone this year with some fabulous performances, and in winning all their games so far, they look a certain bet to reach the latter stages of the season.

Limerick are not to be overlooked, however. Having won the title in 1998, the Greens are out to claim their trophy back.

A great game in prospect, don’t miss this one.

3:30 p.m.

SF1

Donegal vs. Stamford

One of two top flight games this afternoon. Two old rivals come face to face in a contest which is crucial to both sides.

With Kerry and Tyrone virtually guaranteed of playoff spots, there still remains two positions up for grabs, and with these two sides having identical records in the championship to date, we’re promised a highly competitive clash.

Lying in third and fourth positions in the table, both sides are expected to reach the latter stages of the season, but with teams such as Sligo, Westmeath and old champions Leitrim waiting in the wings, neither side can afford a slip-up.

5 p.m.

SF1

Kerry vs. Westmeath

Westmeath, in particular, will be paying specific attention to the previous game where Donegal and Stamford compete against one another. If the Maroons can pull off the unexpected, and grab victory over Paddy Kearney’s side, then there will be a mere point between them and the losers of the previous game, if indeed the games avoid tied results.

Kerry are fresh off a defeat, having lost out to Tyrone last week, so Westmeath will have to push themselves to take advantage of any downhearted Kerry performances on Sunday, if indeed such a thing exists.

Kerry, having already qualified for the playoffs, have nothing to lose but pride, but that is exactly what these guys play for every time they pull on the famous green and gold jersey.

Westmeath will be out for glory however, so expect a tough game from the midlanders.