Benny Heron: Derry must find winning ways once again before thinking about Sam Maguire tilt

The Derry that Ballinascreen man Heron now returns to, as a selector under new manager Ciaran Meenagh, is a vastly different one.

BACK AMONGST IT: Benny Heron of Derry during his playing days. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

When Benny Heron last played for Derry in 2023, in the narrow All-Ireland semi-final loss to Kerry, the Sam Maguire Cup was within touching distance.

Derry were still considered strong contenders at the start of the 2024 Championship, after their National League success under Mickey Harte.