Stamford, Leitrim trying to recover from early losses

12:30 p.m.

Junior Football A

Donegal vs. Kerry

These two sides are well stocked to make a run at this division title. Donegal were strong in their opening victory over a good Fermanagh side. Gerry Kelly led the way, but he was no one-man band. Mark McClafferty and Sean Campbell are strong in the backs and Anton Diver leads a lively forward line.

Kerry have the Riney brothers and Adrian Finn to look to in this their long-delayed 2002 debut. Donegal may have the edge, having a game under their belt.

2 p.m.

Senior Hurling

Westmeath vs. Kilkenny

This match was rained out earlier in the season and in the interim Westmeath were defeated by Waterford while the Cats have been idle. Westmeath are led by Peter Dalton, Paddy Barry, Jonathan O’Callaghan, and Martin Finn. Kilkenny will look to Vinny Norton, Kevin McKay, Damien Mason, and Peter Breen to lead their charge. As always, weekenders could play a decisive role, but as it stands, Westmeath look the stronger team.

3:30 p.m.

Senior Football A

Stamford vs. Rangers

Sunday’s Senior A matchup features two teams trying to rebound from opening losses. Stamford fell to Leitrim on the same day that Rangers came up short versus Cavan. Rangers are a hardworking side, with good performers Dave Phelan, Thomas Maher, and John Pendergast, but they look a bit undermanned for the A division. Manager Dennis Twomey will have to make some wise moves to supplement his side. Stamford were overrun by Leitrim and will be looking for a big improvement on Sunday. Pauric Crevan scored 0-7 points in an impressive display and Stamford have solid performers in Phil Wickham, Richie Purcell, and Stephen Owens. I think Stamford will shade this one.

5 p.m.

Senior Football B

Mayo vs. Monaghan

Monaghan had an easy time with Rockland in their opening match led by Michael Slowey. Slowey was well supported up front by speedy forwards Mark Dobbin and Darren Quinn. Martin Slowey leads a tough back line and Hughie O’Sullivan and Ruari O’Neill are a mobile midfield.

Mayo also learned little from a too easy opening victory versus Roscommon. Brendan Horan led Mayo’s charge on that day and will be expected to do the same on Sunday Ronan Garrity, Lee Kelly, and Kevin Tuohy are capable forwards, but Mayo will be hard pressed to contain the Monaghan attack, especially Slowey. I see Monaghan taking the points.