Ulster SFC Semi-final
Casement Park: Tyrone v Derry, 2.00pm, Sun 6/21
The reigning All-Ireland Champions Tyrone take on neighbors Derry at Casement Park on Sunday in the Ulster Senior Football Semi-final. Mickey Harte has gone with the same team that knocked out Armagh earlier in the campaign. While Derry boss Damien Cassidy is expected to name his side on Friday (6/19), which may have one or two changes in the side that beat Monaghan.
Despite a poor campaign last year, the Oak Leaf county (NFL champions 2008, NFL runners-up 2009) are expected to put it up to the O'Neill county on Sunday. However, it is not since 1998 that a team other Tyrone and Armagh have gone on to win the Ulster SFC.
Tyrone skipper Brian Dooher has fully recovered from a groin problem, but he will start from the bench. However, he is likely to make a substitute appearance.
One of Derry's biggest disappointments ahead of Sunday's match is the loss of their forward James Kielt, who had his jaw broken while playing for his club.
Nonetheless, this Tyrone-Derry encounter has all the signs that it will be a fast and furious game of football from two physical teams. Although Tyrone are favorites to win, I think that the final score will be close and I am leaning towards an upset.
Winner: Derry
Paddy Powers Match Betting Odds (as of 6/19):
Tyrone 8/15
Draw 7/1
Derry 9/4
Handicap Betting Odds:
Tyrone (-2.0) evens
Handicap Draw (-2.0) 17/2
Derry (+2.0) evens
Friday, June 19, 2009
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A colleague informed me that this month's issue of Derry's OakLeaf Magazine has an in-depth look at famous clashes between Derry and Tyrone.
ReplyDeleteI will make another posting in this blog with more info on magazine for those who maybe interested.