This one has a lot riding on it for Anthony Cunningham’s men.
The draw with Clare was good value but it may well have dented Roscommon’s chances of finishing in the top two.
Down are notoriously tricky at home and are still in search of a maiden 2022 victory. A draw away to Meath last week put paid to two defeats on the trot.
The omens are good for Roscommon however. Cunningham’s side were clinical dispatching Meath. While Down could only muster a draw and defeats to Galway and Derry were to the text book.
Cunningham has made two personnel changes for Saturday, Ronan Daly for Mark Richardson, Niall Kilroy drops into right-half-back with Ciaran Murtagh at right half-forward. Dylan Ruane drops out.
The return of the Padraig Pearses players will only strengthen Roscommon on the field and in the dressing room.
Victory for Down would be welcome, but Roscommon know how to battle the dirty ball for a win.
Roscommon: Colm Lavin, Ronan Daly, Brian Stack, Eoin McCormack, Niall Kilroy, Niall Daly, Richard Hughes, Ultan Harney, Eddie Nolan, Ciaran Murtagh, Enda Smith, Cathal Heneghan, Cian McKeon, Donie Smith (C), Conor Cox.
