Derry and Tyrone to meet in refixed 2020 semi-final
It s the fifth meeting of the counties in as many seasons
Derry captain Matthew Down in action in Derry s 2019 defeat to Tyrone. (Pic: John Merry)
Reporter:
Referee : Darren O Hare (Down)
It wasn t the best Christmas present Derry minors could ve received. Shortly after half four on Christmas Eve, the news pinged into their phones of the decision to postpone their Ulster Semi-Final with rivals Tyrone.
It was the third time the pause button was pressed on their championship odyssey and now, a staggering 188 days after their win over Armagh, Derry will face the Red Hands in Saturday s showdown.
Desertmartin GAC - Building on solid foundations
Chairman Pat Kidd in the foyer of Desertmartin s refurbished Gaelic Centre
Reporter: );
);
In the recent County Derry Post awards scheme, Desertmartin were voted as Club of the Year for 2020.
Michael McMullan spoke with their Chairman and club stalwart
Pat Kidd to hear how the club is now thriving.
Following the meandering Longfield Road, up from the village of Desertmartin, the snowy summit of Slieve Gallion makes for an impressive skyline.
Eventually, on the right hand side, football posts emerge from the lush green countryside. A freshly made sign highlights the club s support for the NHS during the current pandemic and tells a community the club is there for them.
Derry minors chomping at the bit for their chance to compete
Oakleafers host Armagh on Sunday at Owenbeg
Derry captain Matthew Downey in action against Cavan in the 2019 clash with Cavan at Owenbeg (Pic: Mary K Burke)
Reporter: );
Ref: Enda McFeely (Donegal)
Derry minor manager Martin Boyle said the management have been energised by a squad of players who are chomping at the bit to get their slice of the championship action.
The Oakleafers host Armagh this weekend in a repeat of last year s clash. Lee Brady, Donncha Gilmore, Calum Downey, Matthew Downey, Charlie Diamond and Adam McGonigle remain from Derry s 1-5 to 0-4 win, thanks to a goal from PJ McAleese.