It’s a top of the table clash between Derry and Dublin that is the standout tie from the weekends fixtures, Kildare and Clare both are looking to avoid the drop, while Limerick are still in search of points.
Derry V Dublin, Saturday March 4th, Celtic Park, 5pm
A top of the table clash between two unbeaten sides should wet the appetite this evening ahead of another weekend of action
Derry have been the most impressive team so far, they have blitzed their opponents but the Dubs bring a stern test and despite winning by safe margins in all four ties, this will not be easy
Dublin have not had it their way despite wins over Kildare, Cork, and Clare, they lacked the killer touch to put the game to bed but have that endurance to pull the Rabbit out of the hat when needed.
Clare V Cork, Sunday March 5th, Cusack Park, 2pm
In the Munster derby in Ennis, Clare will look to get over the line having fallen shy in recent weeks.
Losing by a point to both Kildare and Dublin, they’ll feel they could have won both of the ties and not be in contention to have to fight out a relegation battle, this tie with Cork is crucial.
Cork sit third and have grinded for their results, they came so close to toppling the Dubs but are out for another success over their Munster counterparts as Clare serve another tough challenge.
Louth v Kildare, Sunday March 5th, Ardee, 2pm
Louth will have all the confidence going into this tie as Kildare could be in a tough situation if they fall to defeat.
Mickey Harte’s team were hard done to lose to Clare and also tested Derry better than anyone else, a maiden win over Limerick and a win over Meath last weekend has them going right.
Kildare are down on confidence and heavily beaten by Derry last time out needing something to reignite their spark, otherwise it could be relegation for them if results do not materialise.
Limerick v Meath, Sunday March 5th, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 2pm
Meath have faltered in recent weeks but will look to get back to winning ways away to bottom side Limerick.
Colm O’Rourkes men have faced back to back defeats and will be looking to turn the tide and finish the year on a high note if they can topple a leaky Limerick defence.
It hasn’t been a smooth season for Limerick, having impressed so much last year live on Div 2 has not been kind, losing by hefty margins in all of their fixtures, a win would certainly aid their survival chances.
Diarmuid Kearney
Diarmuid Kearney is a freelance Sports Journalist based in Co Kerry. He has more than 5 years experience covering domestic and international soccer for different media organisations, while also working for local and national print and digital organisations covering GAA.