Down ready for Ulster

Down ready for Ulster

16 April 2025

DOWN captain Pierce Laverty believes his side are rejuvenated as they prepare to put relegation behind them and take on Fermanagh in the Ulster Senior Football Championship quarter-finals at Brewster Park on Saturday.

Defeats to Roscommon, Meath, Louth and Cavan surrounded their remarkable comeback against Cork and eventually proved too much the Mourne Men, leading to relegation. 

However, they fought to the very end, securing victories over Westmeath and Division 2 champions Monaghan, and while relegation was not what they wanted, skipper Laverty believes there are positives to be taken from the league campaign.

“We came out of the league season disappointed. We thought we had done enough against Monaghan, but you have to learn from your mistakes and we’re still a young team,” he admitted.

“The massive gain in the league is the experience. We were in every game and the two wins at the end of the season definitely gave us a lift. The confidence we have taken from beating Monaghan is huge.”

The Ulster Championship offers an opportunity to make amends for relegation and while four weeks have passed since the conclusion of league football, Down will hope the momentum has not wilted from their impressive victory in Monaghan.

Speaking on their preparations, Laverty added: “We have spent the past four weeks getting back on the horse and have put in a serious volume of work.”

“We’re definitely carrying momentum from the Monaghan win and it’s now just case of continuing to play our own game.”

Laverty, who captained Down to the Tailteann Cup, is also eager to use the lessons he has learned with the county and apply them to his club, Saul.

They recently embarked upon their first season in ACFL Division 1 and although they are winless after three games, the county star’s know-how could offer a boost.

He added: “I always try to relay any nuggets I have picked up from county football to my club teammates and do my best to keep space in my calendar free for Saul training, even if it is just to provide a voice for the lads.

“It’s a massive season for us, but it’s a challenge I think we’re fit for. With a few players returning soon, I can see us picking up a few points.”

For now, his focus will be on Fermanagh, and Down could fancy their chances, given the fact that their opponents were mid-table in the division below.

Fermanagh’s four wins, one draw and two defeats were only enough for them to finish fourth, meaning they will also be aiming to give their season a greater complexion.

The Ernesiders also fell at the first hurdle in the provincial championship last year, losing to the Armagh side that would go on to become All-Ireland champions.

Down, on the other hand, made it the semi-finals, before they lost to the current Sam Maguire holders

That could offer encouragement, but a lot has happened since then and Laverty is aware of the challenge that lies ahead.

“I wouldn’t consider us as favourites. Facing any Ulster opponents is always a tough task, especially when you are playing away from home,” he said. 

“Travelling to Brewster Park, coming off the back of the disappointment of relegation, I think we’re in for a massive battle.”

Throw-in is set for 4pm in Enniskillen on Saturday and the Down Supporters Club will be running a bus to the game.

The bus will set off from Castlewellan Upper Square at 11am and stop at Hilltown Square (11.15), Mayobridge (11.25) and Newry Courthouse (11.35).

The cost of the fare is £20 for adults and £10 for children. Tickets can be purchased through the Down GAA app or by contacting Eamon O’Hare on 07733439191.