HURLING: Na Magha underdogs facing might of Kevin Lynch's

Kevin Lynch's v Na Magha (Sunday, Owenbeg, 6pm)McGurk Chartered Architects Derry Senior Hurling Championship Quarter-Finals
Na Magha and Derry county hurler, Alan Grant.Na Magha and Derry county hurler, Alan Grant.
Na Magha and Derry county hurler, Alan Grant.

On paper Kevin Lynch’s would appear to have the easiest task of the three quarter-finals but manager Ryan O’Neill will not be taking anything for granted against a Na Magha side that has some excellent players in Alan Grant, Breandan Quigley, Deaglan Foley and Brendan Douban.

Of the game O’Neill stated, “We’re approaching the game with the same respect as anybody in Derry. We have prepared as much as we can. They have been scoring heavily in their Antrim League games.”

Two years ago Kevin Lynch’s came within two points of Slaughtneil in the final but the broken leg sustained by Conal McCloskey in that game derailed their challenge in that game.

He missed last season but is now back and will captain the side.

Lynch’s also lost Kevin Farren with a cruciate injury, also Ciaran Mackle and Paddy McCloskey with similar injuries.

It’s unlikely that these players will be available for this game, keeper Brian Lagan also doubtful with a groin injury.

Liam Hinphey could also be an absentee but with players like Mark Craig, Kevin Hinphey and Paddy Kelly in key positions they will have the experience to carry them through.

Na Magha also have a number of absentees, Ryan O’Donnell, James McQuillan, Conor O’Rourke, Dermot Shields and Ciaran McCarron unavailable.

It would be a huge surprise if Na Magha upset the odds, Kevin Lynch’s long odds on to reach the semi final.

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