Lynch returns to boost Derry for Croker clash with Westmeath

 

The return of team captain Mark Lynch has handed Derry a major boost for the Allianz FL Division 2 final against Westmeath at Croke Park on Sunday.

The Derry starting XV shows two changes from the team which comprehensively defeated already promoted Westmeath 2-17 to 1-5 at Celtic Park on April 7.

Lynch's return at No. 6 sets Michael Bateson )who went off injured in that aforementioned clash against Westmeath) drop to the bench, while Gerard O'Kane moves from centre half-back to corner-back. In attack, Benny Heron replaces Lee Kennedy at corner-forward.

Westmeath named their team for Sunday's clash earlier in the week - and the details are on this website.

Derry's 15-point win over Westmeath sealed promotion for the Oak Leaf men, but Westmeath will be hoping to turn the tables at Croke Park.

Sunday's Division 2 final is listed to throw-in at 2pm, and it will be followed by the Division 1 decider between Dublin and Tyrone (4pm).

Derry team (v Westmeath): Eoin McNicholl; Aidan McAlynn, Chrissy McKaigue, Gerard O'Kane; Charlie Kielt, Mark Lynch, Sean Leo McGoldrick; Patsy Bradley, Ryan Bell; Daniel Heavron, James Kielt, Enda Lynn; Benny Heron, Eoin Bradley, Raymond Wilkinson.

Subs: Thomas Mallon, Brian McCallion, Declan Brown, Michael Bateson, Conor McAtamney, Bliain Gormley, Lee Kennedy, Declan Mullan, Coilin Devlin, Ciaran McFaul, Emmett McGuckin.