Coming into this game, both Newtown and Belleek will see this as a huge opportunity to get through to a Junior Championship Final.
No doubt Belleek are the favourites to see it out, but anything can happen in the last four of the competition.
It would be a major surprise however if Garreth Thornton’s men don’t book their spot in the decider.
Newtown just about made it to this stage after Corrinshego dragged them to extra time and penalties in the quarter final.
After earning a first round bye, Newtown fought tooth and nail for a place in the semi-final and will have to do the same today.
Benny Davidson remains the main attacking threat in the blue and white and Belleek will want to limit his influence.
St Michael’s do have some handy young players as well, with the likes of Sean and James McVerry along with Aidan Davidson.
All three of those youngsters have represented Armagh at underage level and they are the future for Newtown.
You can be sure they will head into today’s clash with no fear, but lack of inexperience could also go against them.
In saying that, Belleek haven’t reached this stage of the championship in over ten years, so nerves could also play their part.
They do possess the better forward line of the two teams and if they’re on form, it could be a long day for the underdogs.
Callum O’Neill is a sensational talent around the centre of the park and can play anywhere for Belleek.
Up front, Drew McVerry, James McParland and Sean McCreesh form a deadly full forward line that will take some watching.
McCreesh, O’Neill and McParland racked up 2-12 between them in their sides first round win over neighbours Dorsey.
Belleek eased through that quarter final, winning by ten points in the end, 2-15 to 1-8, to book their spot in today’s game.
Fergus Quinn seemed to be out of the Belleek ranks after signing a professional boxing contract, but his inclusion in the programme has raised a few eyebrows.
Quinn represented Armagh at minor and under 20 level and if available, is likely to see game time this evening.
If Newtown are to spring a surprise, they need everything to go right for them and for Belleek to have an off day.
It’s unlikely that Belleek won’t be up for this one and they should be the side facing Forkhill in the Junior Final.
Prediction: Belleek
