What a week we have in store for all Carlow GAA enthusiasts as both our Senior teams have big games next Sunday. Turlough O’Brien and his footballers make the trip up the M1 to St. Paul’s GAA Club in Belfast as Antrim host us in the first round of the NFL 2015. The battle to get out of Div. 4 starts here and this is the stated aim of a group of players who really look to have the bit between their teeth this year. The Manager should have almost a full deck to choose from with the exception of multi-award winner Barry John Molloy as he continues his road to full fitness. Antrim will be no mugs however, and with Casement Park still out of action, the St. Paul’s venue will seek to provide home comfort for the Saffrons. A large travelling support is expected as every game in the League this year is a crucial one for the Barrowsiders. A win to kick-start the ‘real’ season would be most welcome.

Our hurlers will stay local on Sunday afternoon as the newly named Netwatch Cullen Park hosts its first inter-county fixture when Galway come to town for the Walsh Cup semi-final. After trouncing the last group of Tribesmen to visit, (albeit of the student variety), this poses an entirely different challenge for Pat English’s side. Fresh from their win over Offaly at the weekend, Galway will travel full of confidence. Carlow too will be in buoyant form following their high scoring win over NUIG and will surely be relishing the opportunity to test themselves against Anthony Cunningham’s men. The prize of a final berth for the victors should ensure that both teams will give each other a good rattle, let’s hope the Scallion Eaters have the final say when the dust settles early Sunday afternoon.

Stay with us during the week for exclusive squad news and the first place to see the teams for gameday.