U20s meet Donegal in Ulster semi-final tonight

GAA

Cavan U20 footballers have a chance to book their place in the Ulster final for the first time in three years when they take on Donegal in the semi-final tonight (7.30pm) in Ballybofey.

Under the management of former senior star Larry Reilly, Cavan drew with Monaghan, beat Armagh and lost to Derry in the group stages before a fine performance against Down last Wednesday saw them through to the last four.

Donegal are rated as favourites, having beaten a fancied Tyrone (3-16 to 0-17).

Senior player Finnbarr Roarty is part of the panel, although he may be tied up with Jim McGuinness’s senior squad, while Seanan Carr scored 2-10 against Antrim in the group stage.

Other leading men for Donegal are captain Sean Martin and Four Masters player Kevin Muldoon, who scored for Sligo Rovers in a friendly against Everton last year.

Cavan, however, will travel north with a degree of confidence. Their forward line has been going very well, with Matthew Smith, Lorcan Reilly and Cian Keaney all standing out while midfielder Matthew Costello (captain) and senior player Evan Crowe have also impressed, as has wing-back Ben Tully.

Cavan are without one of their key men, however, in full-back Cillian Brady.

A win would be a terrific boost, coming after the minor county team opened their championship campaign with an eye-catching win over Derry last Saturday.

The Cavan team is below: