The yo-yo team label has been hung around Roscommon for quiet sometime.
Victory over Derry would edge Anthony Cunningham’s men close to a division one return.
This one should be the game of the weekend. One point separates first placed Derry and the third placed Rossies.
Derry host Galway next, while Galway host Roscommon in the final round. Galway would be looking to have promotion sealed by time of the derby.
That adds to this big game meeting. Both Derry and Roscommon will want a win, knowing it could be a knockout punch for promotion ambition.
Down, Offaly, Clare and Cork have all fallen to Rory Gallagher’s men. Gallagher is a wiley fox and will have plotted Roscommon’s downfall in typical Ulster fashion.
Cunnigham’s Roscommon to his credit have a flow in attack. They attack with speed through the half-forwards. Full-fowards; Done Smith, Cian McKeon and Conor Cox are all dangerous in-front of goal.
The workman like effort of Eddie Nolan in centre-field is perfect foil for Ultan Harney. Cunningham’s side have registered 3-45 so far.
The problem is in the defence, which looks a little shaky. Derry have scored 6-49. 2-13 came against Offaly who Roscommon have yet to play.
2-13 also came against Clare who Roscommon could only put 0-9 past, albeit on a bad day weather wise.
The scoring may not be all that high in Dr Hyde Park this weekend, but this will go to the line and it will be last man standing.
Roscommon v Derry
Sunday March 15
Dr Hyde Park, 2pm
