Lidl Ladies’ NFL Division One, round one
Tyrone v Meath (Sunday, Newtownstewart, 2pm)
AFTER a seven-year absence, Tyrone are back in the top flight and new manager Darren McCann is hoping they can prove themselves among the elite when they welcome Meath in their opening game.
Staying in Division One is the primary objective for the Red Hands boss as well as building on the progression made by Sean O’Kane, who McCann has replaced
“It’s a massive opportunity for the girls to test themselves against the top counties,” said McCann of their return to the top tier of league football.
“Facing some of the best sides in the country is not only an exciting challenge but also invaluable preparation for the intermediate championship.
Look we will be taking each game as it comes, setting targets but ultimately trying to stay in division one would be the main target.
Their opening fixture against the 2022 league champions is a massive challenge but it is one they are looking forward to.
“First day out its a massive challenge playing Meath, who have won two All-Ireland senior titles in the last four years.
“We haven’t been out long so the turnaround from December to now has been quite quick, but we have managed to get a number of challenge games in recent weeks which we hope will benefit us come Sunday.
“The level of competition will be high surely as you are going up against three out of the last four All-Ireland winners and also the current national league champions, but if you look at Division Two as well, there are some household names too.
‘‘In today’s game you have to focus on all areas to be as competitive as you can and that’s what we have be focusing on.’’
The Errigal Ciaran man was appointed back in September, coming into the role on the back of guiding Tyrone minors to the Ulster A title in 2023 and winning the Ulster B title last year.
While there have been some changes in personnel, he has added to the squad, which will be captained again by Aoibhinn McHugh, with Chloe McCaffrey and Meabh Corrigan as vice-captains.
“We have lost two players who were involved in last year’s All-Ireland final who have went travelling this year. We have added a few girls who have been in the panel from previous years and some new faces in for the first time.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the girls so far as has the backroom team. There are many things that has stood out but ultimately their work ethic has been first class as they continue to push each other week in, week out.
‘‘The return to Division One is an opportunity for Tyrone to play against top quality opposition each week and to put their own skills on show.
“I don’t see there being added pressure. I see it as a great opportunity for our girls to showcase their footballing ability in the highest division in ladies’ football and they are all looking forward to it. It will be great to get plenty of support down to Newtownstewart on Sunday to push the girls on.”
