There’s some tasty ties lined up for the first round of the football qualifiers. Here’s all the details from this morning’s draw.
For the first time ever the first round qualifier draw was held on Morning Ireland this morning, with 16 teams in the hat. With some big names, especially from Ulster, in the draw we expected some big games and we weren’t disappointed.
The one that catches the eye first was probably the last one out of the hat, Derry against Longford. The Oaf Leaf County were disappointing against Donegal on Saturday while Longford were every good over two games against Wexford. With the game at Pearse Park, it’s a huge challenge for John Brennan to keep Derry’s hopes alive.
Another stand-out is Roscommon against Armagh. The Orchard were impressive against Tyrone before going down while Roscommon have some fantastic individuals, despite losing some players from their panel since they lost to Galway.
The other game that should get some attention is the rematch of Louth and Westmeath. The Wee County nabbed it in the Leinster championship but they have suffered badly through injury and emigration since and Westmeath will really fancy getting revenge.
The games should be played on June 30 but it will be tomorrow before the dates, times and venues are confirmed.
Full Round One Qualifier Draw:
Laois v Carlow
Westmeath v Louth
Roscommon v Armagh
Fermanagh v Cavan
Tipperary v Offaly
London v Antrim
Wicklow v Waterford
Longford v Derry
