Trio of Derry clubs keep Ulster dreams alive

Eight Derry teams set out over the weekend hoping to take another step towards Ulster glory, but only three have kept their dreams alive after what proved to be a disappointing few days for the county’s representatives.

Things began brightly on Saturday as both Newbridge and Glenullin recorded victories in Owenbeg, before Lavey joined them in advancing to the next stage. Almost 3,000 supporters packed into Owenbeg for the Derry v Antrim double-header, which saw both Oak Leaf sides progress.

A crucial goal from Callum McGrogan helped Newbridge overturn a two-point halftime deficit to defeat Dunloy 1-14 to 0-11.

Speaking after the game, manager Gary Hetherington praised his players’ composure:

“Dunloy are a quality side and we knew what was coming. Against the breeze with 29 minutes gone and six four up we were delighted, but we got caught by two sucker punches and the dynamics changed. We didn’t panic and the boys didn’t panic. We probably didn’t play as well in the second half as I expected with the breeze, but that’s credit to Dunloy.

“The win is massive for the Newbridge club — to be winning Ulster club matches means a lot.”

Next up for Newbridge is a trip to Armagh on Sunday to face Madden, while Glenullin will meet Sarsfields earlier that afternoon. Micheal O’Kane’s Glenullin side produced an impressive display to sweep aside Moneyglass, pulling clear after a slow start to record a comfortable victory.

On Sunday, Lavey booked their place in the Ulster Junior Hurling semi-final with a strong second-half performance against Cootehill of Cavan. Just four points separated the sides at halftime, but three Lavey goals after the break saw them win convincingly, finishing 13 points clear. They now face Armagh’s Cúchulainn’s this weekend.

Glenullin set for Sarsfield clash after lacklustre win

Glenullin next head to BOX-IT Athletic Grounds and a quarter-final with Sarsfields of Armagh

Newbridge edge past competitive Dunloy side at Owenbeg

Newbridge have set up Ulster quarter-final clash with Madden

Lavey comfortably dispatch Cootehill Celtic to advance into semi-finals

Three second-half goals at Celtic Park seal win for Lavey

Unfortunately, the remaining Derry sides saw their Ulster hopes end. Slaughtmanus exited the Junior Football Championship, while Swatragh fell to Lisbellaw in the Intermediate Hurling.

In camogie, Sleacht Néill were defeated at home by Loughgeil, and both Claudy and Eoghan Rua bowed out at the semi-final stage of the Ladies Football competition.