Allianz Football League previews
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Allianz Football League previews

Division 1

Saturday March 14

Mayo v Dublin

Sunday March 15

Kerry v Donegal

Tyrone v Cork

Monaghan v Derry

A local crowd that will be large and expectant, motivated opposition, and the need for spoils ensures Jim Gavin will be able to focus minds for the tricky trip to the west.

For the first time in several years Dublin's League has been more miss than hit, but this is precisely the type of game in which statements are made.

When Kerry last met Donegal everything was on the line. That isn't really the case this time around even if the two points would come in handy.

Tyrone host Cork in a match which will be a physical examination for both teams. Cork are attempting to prove themselves capable of pinching results on the road. Tyrone's display against Dublin confirmed what they can do.

There has been a touch of the erratic about Monaghan while Derry have struggled thus far too.

Division Two

Saturday March 14

Meath v Laois

Sunday March 15

Galway v Cavan

Kildare v Roscommon

Westmeath v Down

Surprisingly sluggish when defeated by Galway Meath have stitched a couple of successes together to acquire a drop of confidence again. Laois were slick when outwitting Roscommon so Navan on Saturday should move along at a decent clip.

Down reeled Galway in at Newry meaning the maroons tussle with Cavan on Sunday carries an extra edge. Kildare's triumph over Cavan has provided the Lilywhites with a boost as Roscommon will be striving to recapture the form they demonstrated earlier in the League. Westmeath entertain Down at Mullingar in a game that has serious implications for them both.

Division Three

Sunday March 15

Louth v Tipperary

Fermanagh v Limerick

Clare v Armagh

Sligo v Wexford

As expected Armagh are setting the standard, but Fermanagh were competitive against them maintaining their efficient start. Clare have shown glimpses of promise so they will hope to cause Armagh a few problems in Ennis.

Fermanagh know that Limerick can be durable too, while Louth and Tipperary both crave a win to stay in the chasing pack. Sligo were impressive last weekend, and the match with Wexford will be revealing. Whoever loses will be in deep relegation bother.

Division Four

Sunday March 15

Wicklow v Longford

Offaly v Carlow

Waterford v Antrim

Offaly and Longford currently top the Division Four table, but both face awkward assignments. Wicklow will relish the battle with Jack Sheedy's improving Longford outfit, while Offaly can expect a physical afternoon in the company of Turlough O'Brien's Carlow, who are gathering momentum also.

Antrim have nudged into the promotion reckoning too, but they'll need to register a victory from the long spin to Waterford.