Early-season victories come with the usual health warning, but new Down boss Conor Laverty could hardly have wished for a better start to his tenure.
Back-to-back wins over Division One sides Monaghan and Donegal has the Mournemen into the last four of the Dr McKenna Cup and they’ll get another decent January test when they face Ulster champions Derry.
The Oak Leafers looked to be heading out of the competition on Wednesday night when they were five points adrift of rivals Tyrone in Owenbeg, but Lachlan Murray’s superb late equaliser clinched a dramatic share of the spoils.
Read more: GAA fans fume at price rise as Football and Hurling League tickets go on sale
The result was enough for Derry to take the best runners-up place ahead of Armagh, who lost out to Cavan.
With the start of the Allianz Football Leagues first approaching, both sides will be keen to maintain momentum and earn a crack at some silverware in next weekend’s decider.
Here's more info on Sunday’s Dr McKenna Cup semi-final and how to watch it…
When and where is the game?
Down vs Derry is on Sunday, January 15 in Páirc Esler, Newry.
What time is throw-in?
Sunday’s game starts at 1.30pm.
Where can I watch it?
Sunday’s game is not being shown live on TV, but a stream of the game is available to purchase via Ulster GAA TV.
Any other coverage?
Belfast Live Sport will be live blogging Sunday's Down vs Derry game.
Betting odds
Down 11/8
Draw 13/2
Derry 4/5
Read next:
- Campaign group set up by Tyrone GAA in support of A5 upgrade
- Dr McKenna Cup semi-final details confirmed as Derry snatch a late draw with Tyrone
- Sean 'Dingle' Daly tributes paid as GAA and football clubs remember legendary dual star
Conor Glass says Glen never lacked belief as clash with Kilmacud Crokes awaits
Mayo legend Lee Keegan calls time on his inter-county career
Down seal semi-final date as revival continues under new boss Conor Laverty
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
