NY GAA Previews: Kerry, Longford in semi final

By Mike Fitzpatrick

Junior Football (A)

Westput vs Down

1. p.m.

Rangers and Rockland have already qualified for the playoffs from this division, so the remaining places are still up for grabs.

Fourth placed Westput have had something of a disappointing season so far, having registered only four points from a possible total of ten.

Down have fared almost as badly, grabbing two points out of a possible eight. Both sides however, are still within a shout of making the playoffs, but a win here is hugely important. A loss for either team, and it will surely be curtains until next year.

Rockland play Dublin in another crucial A Division clash this week, so the Ulster side and the lads from upstate will hope the Dubs can grab something from that to provide the sides on display here a better chance at making the playoffs.

I feel Westput will put their disappointing recent result versus Donegal behind them, and go all out for victory here.

Senior Hurling

Offaly vs Westmeath

2.30 p.m.

It’s practically accepted that big guns Limerick and Tipperary have made the playoffs, so the remaining positions are still up for grabs.

Waterford have also looked promising this year, and stand a very good chance of making it with the aforementioned sides. The hopes of Sean Guinan’s Offaly side have all but faded from view, whereas Westmeath are definitely still in with a shout should they grab victory here.

I figure Offaly will put up yet another defiant display, but Westmeath’s hunger for the victory should see them through to fight another day.

Ladies Football Final

Cavan vs Na Fianna

4 p.m.

Senior Football Div. II semi final

Kerry vs Longford

5.15 p.m.

Kerry defeated Longford a number of weeks ago at the Park, and although they suffered a somewhat surprising defeat to Sligo last Sunday, they’ll still be favorites to clinch this one.

Noel Lennon’s Longford side has had some fine victories this year, and had won five out of five before the game versus the kingdom.

Longford will certainly hope that forward and New York All Star Kevin Lilly is at his best for this tie, a game which will have a huge say as to who plays Division 1 football next year.

Longford will be out for revenge, and may have a few weekenders over for the game, but I reckon after a hard fought contest, Paddy Kearney of Kerry will be the man smiling.