Division 1A – Crossmaglen v Granemore – Friday – 7.30pm
There is only one game in Division 1A this weekend and it’s a repeat of last years SFC final as Crossmaglen take on Granemore.
The Rangers were victorious that day and again overcame Granemore when the sides last met in the league.
A late goal was the main difference between the sides as Crossmaglen ran out five-point winners, 1-9 to 0-7.
That game took place in Granemore just over a month ago, but Niall McAleenan’s side are on the road this Friday.
And they are fighting for their lives. A win in Crossmaglen will secure Granemore’s spot in Division 1A for another season.
They are currently just above the relegation zone, leading rivals Ballymacnab by two-points, while this is their game in hand.
A draw would even do for Granemore as it would put them to 12 points and just out of reach for the Nab.
Crossmaglen don’t have anything really to play for, as they are safe in the division while they can’t get their hands on the trophy.
But they will be aiming for a top four finish as that would leave them as top seeds come the championship.
Anthony Cunningham’s men are currently tied on 13 points with Armagh Harps, who they face on the final day.
Team news
Cross however may want to get valuable minutes into the legs for some of the players that haven’t played a whole pile this season.
Oisin O’Neill, Thomas Og Duffy and Cian McConville all started in their recent league loss to Clann Eireann.
Rian O’Neill and Aaron Kernan were only introduced late on, while James Morgan and Stephen Morris are both out injured.
Granemore’s team seems to have a more settled look, although some of the positional changes against Mullaghbawn suggest they are trying to shake things up.
Darren Carr, their usual full back, stood in between the sticks and actually saved a penalty, with Kevin Kelly currently out injured.
Odhran Doyle, who converted a penalty at the other end, lined out at full back, having played wing forward during last years run to the championship final.
Tony McClelland moved out to wing half forward, while Kieran Toner usually takes up the sweeper position.
It will certainly be an interesting match up and both sides will be eager to pick up the two points on offer.
