Ulster GAA has put Páirc Esler on standby to host the Dr McKenna Cup final between Derry and Tyrone if the Athletic Grounds doesn’t thaw out by lunchtime on Saturday.
The cold winter weather has played havoc with sporting fixtures all week with several Sigerson Cup and McGurk Cup games postponed due to frozen pitches.
The Athletic Grounds wasn’t playable on Friday and another overnight frost has left the Ulster Council with no option to have another venue on standby.
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There will be a pitch inspection at both the Athletic Grounds and Páirc Esler at 12.30pm on Saturday to determine if either venue is able to host the final.
A postponement would cause headaches for both counties with the Allianz Football Leagues getting under way next weekend.
Tyrone begin their Division One campaign with a trip to Dr Hyde Park to face Roscommon, who won Division Two last season.
Derry host Limerick in Owenbeg with the Treatymen moving up to the second tier after gaining promotion from Division Three last season.
The sides have already met this season with Lachlan Murray’s dramatic late equaliser giving Rory Gallagher’s men the best runners-up place while the Red Hands topped Section B.
Tyrone defeated Cavan in last Saturday’s semi-final while the Ulster champions edged past Down following a penalty shoot-out in Newry on Sunday.
Read next:
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- Allianz Football League fixtures: A complete guide to the 2023 season
Dunloy vs Ballyhale: Gregory O’Kane offers injury update ahead of All-Ireland decider
- GAA fans fume at price rise as Football and Hurling League tickets go on sale
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