Kingdom set for stiff Kildare test

Christy Ring Cup Previews

Today

Round One (2.30pm unless stated)

Mayo v Wicklow, McHale Park Castlebar (C Brown, Galway)

Wicklow topped Division 3A and are flying high. Mayo were table-toppers in Division 3B but were beaten by Roscommon in their promotion playoff.

They’ve made progress out west, but still have a way to go to catch Wicklow.

Verdict: Wicklow.

Down v Derry, Ballycran (P Murphy, Carlow)

DERRY are smarting from their failure to gain promotion from Division 3A while Down finished mid-table in Division Two with three wins from seven. On that basis they have to be fancied here.

Verdict: Down

Armagh v Meath, Athletic Grounds (G Duffy, Antrim)

THESE two finished bottom of Division 3A with Armagh relegated having lost their head-to-head against Meath in mid-March. Armagh did beat Wicklow last time out, the only team to do so in the league. Revenge in the air?

Verdict: Armagh.

Kildare v Kerry, Newbridge (E Hasson, Derry)

BIG test for Kerry who comfortably maintained their Division Two status despite heavy defeats against Limerick and Clare. Kildare were mediocre in Division 3A, which suggests a gap in class. Kerry should win, but they have to travel, and the margins at this level are small.

Verdict: Kerry