Louth Face Tough Test Against Cavan in Division 2 Clash
Ardee News and Sport – Louth Face Tough Test Against Cavan in Division 2 Clash
Louth will travel to Kingspan Breffni Park this Sunday to face Cavan in a crucial third-round encounter in the Allianz Football League Division 2. The match, set for a 2pm throw-in, promises to be a stern test for the Wee County as they look to build momentum in their league campaign.
Team News: Changes for Louth Ahead of Cavan Clash
Louth manager has announced several changes to the starting lineup ahead of the upcoming fixture.
Ardee St Mary’s Liam Jackson comes into the team at centre-half back, replacing Emmet Carolan. Meanwhile, Ciarán Campbell moves from the half-forward line to left half-back, stepping in for the injured Craig Lennon.
In midfield, Conor Grimes returns to the starting lineup, taking the place of Dara McDonnell. Grimes had initially started against Westmeath but missed the Roscommon game due to injury.
The forward line sees further adjustments, with Kieran McArdle retaining his place in the half-forward line after an impressive appearance as a substitute against Roscommon. Dundalk Young Irelands’ Peter McStravick is set to start at corner-forward, replacing Daire McConnon. Additionally, Ryan Burns makes his return to the starting fifteen at corner-forward, having been a late withdrawal prior to the Roscommon match in Drogheda.
These changes aim to bring fresh energy and balance to the team as they prepare for their next challenge.
Current Form:
Louth have had a mixed start to their Division 2 campaign, with a hard-fought win against Kildare followed by a narrow defeat to Meath. Manager Ger Brennan will be hoping his side can rediscover their best form against a Cavan outfit that has impressed so far.
Cavan come into the game with confidence, having secured wins in their opening two fixtures against Fermanagh and Cork. Their defensive solidity and efficient forward line make them one of the teams to beat in the division.
Key Players to Watch:
- Louth: Sam Mulroy remains Louth’s talisman in attack, while Ciarán Downey and Conor Grimes will be crucial in the middle of the park.
- Cavan: Gearóid McKiernan is a powerhouse for the Breffni men, with Paddy Lynch providing the main scoring threat.
Tactical Battle:
Louth will need to maintain defensive discipline to counteract Cavan’s direct style of play. A high-intensity pressing game could unsettle the home side, but the midfield battle will be key to determining the outcome.
Manager’s Thoughts:
“Cavan are a strong, well-organised team, but we believe in our abilities,” said Ger Brennan. “We’ve worked hard in training, and the lads are eager to make a statement on Sunday.”
Match Details:
- Fixture: Cavan vs Louth
- Venue: Kingspan Breffni Park
- Date: Sunday, 16th Feb
- Time: 2pm
📻 Follow the Action Live:
Live commentary will be available on LMFM Radio and online at lmfm.ie. Fans can follow updates on the Louth GAA social media channels.
Can Louth secure a vital away win, or will Cavan continue their winning streak? All roads lead to Kingspan Breffni Park this Sunday for what promises to be a thrilling Division 2 clash.
Louth: Niall McDonnell; 2. Dermott Campbell, 3. Peter Lynch, 4. Donal McKenny; 5. Conall McKeever, 6. Liam Jackson, 7. Ciarán Murphy; 8. Tommy Durnin, 9. Conor Grimes; 10. Kieran McArdle, 11. Ciarán Downey, 12. Andy McDonnell; 13. Peter McStravick, 14. Sam Mulroy (c), 15. Ryan Burns.
Substitutes: 16. Tiernan Markey, 17. Chris O’Neill, 18. Ciarán Keenan, 19. Paul Matthews, 20. Anthony Williams, 21. Seán Reynolds, 22. Val Leddy, 23. Ciarán Byrne, 24. Daire Nally, 25. Pearse Grimes-Murphy, 26. Fearghal Malone.