Lynch’s men at the ready

They travel to Ballymacarn Park in County Down to play Ballynahinch in the Senior League for their first game this year. (KO 2.30pm)

Derry are seeking their third consecutive win in the Senior League after defeating both Malone and Ballymena in their last two fixtures at Judge’s Road. City scoring three tries and four tries respectively and claiming a bonus point.

A win will see Derry move into third position in the league ahead of ’Hinch.

Commenting on this weekends difficult away fixture head coach Lynch said: “After a decent rest it is a chance to get rid of the ring-rust. It’s our first game of the year and we must build on our last two wins and maintain accuracy.

“We must keep the ball and finish well just as we did in the last two games. We hope to build on that but we had home advantage and that counts for an awful lot. Ballynahinch are a very good side and will be difficult to break down. We must be disciplined and take our chances when they arrive.”

City of Derry are prioritising league safety in the AIL and the New Zealander commented: “All games are important but we must secure safety in the AIL. We must get some points on the board. It’s OK to talk about the ability of the team but the league does not lie. Last year we scored bonus points with monotonous ease but have failed to do it this season.

“We must take our Senior League form into our remaining fixtures in the AIL 2A.”

Both Ryan Campbell and Richard McCarter are back in full training and if available will bolster the squad.

More good news for City of Derry in that Peter Henderson should also be available for next weekends AIL clash against Clonakilty.