Neither of these teams will care that they are scrapping it out in the so-called pauper's half of the Ulster championship. This is a hugely important occasion for both counties.

Monaghan's win over Fermanagh was one of the surprises of the year. But they performed reasonably in the lower echelons of the league and have a history of causing upsets when least fancied.

Cavan had a steady league and ought to have routed Down by more. Big Dermot McCabe is approaching '97 form again, the half-back line is accomplished, and they still have any number of fliers up front, even if they do sometimes appear more pre-occupied with burning their man than taking scores.

But they won't enjoy anything like the possession they had against Down. Jason Hughes and James McIlroy are a diligent central pairing and Monaghan's defence impressed. Cavan's success in curtailing the on-song Ciaran Tavey and big full forward Ronan Ronaghan will be crucial.

The heart of the Cavan defence looked susceptible under the dropping ball against Down and it is likely that Monaghan will test for weakness there. They also closed out that match less than convincingly. But this is the step that Val Andrews's side needs to make. They are worth an Ulster final place, if they have the poise to take it.