Dempsey demands change in structure

WITH the quality of teams now lining up to go through the football qualifier system — Derry, Donegal, Meath and Tyrone amongst them — some of managers will await the first-round draw next weekend with more anxiety than optimism.

And, while Luke Dempsey would never be one to shirk a challenge, the Longford manager is not excited about the prospects of his team being able to renew their challenge. The reason is quite straightforward — a lack of preparation.

By the time they get to play again, on July 19, 10 weeks will have elapsed since their Leinster championship dismissal at home by Westmeath.