Ulster

Antrim

Strengths: Ulster's big shots. As Twink is to Hollywood, Antrim are to late summer hurling. Some talent, some spirit, some expectation of big time looming. Best during the league panto season.

Weaknesses: Couldn't stop Down getting a grip in the 1990s. For all the flattering scorelines in the league, they struggled against everyone and beat no one, except Kerry - and that by a squeek.

Prediction: Nearly caught by Derry last year and London the year before. That usually means a malignancy.

Derry

Strengths: Burgeoning confidence after a season in Division One at the end of which they retained their place. Oliver Collins. Will-o'-the-wisp forward Geoffrey McGonigle. Improving championship performances.

Weaknesses: Lack of strength-in-depth and genuine quality.

Prediction: Their year may have come. Antrim are bound to find it hard to keep repelling them. Dublin beckons.

Down

Strengths: Although they have been passing Derry on the escalators, Down remain competitive and experienced. Noel Sands and Johnny McGrattan in attack. Kevin Coulter at the back.

Weaknesses: Based in Division Two, they have struggled to keep pace with the Meaths, Carlows and Westmeaths of the world. Difficulty coping with Derry's leading players.

Prediction: Hard to see them reversing the last two years' results against Derry. Summer uninterrupted on the peninsula.

London

Strengths: Big catchment area. Sympathetic Lord Mayor.

Weaknesses: Lack of settled team has led to declining presence in the League. Gulf between them and even other teams in, er, Ulster growing. Two-year plan to compete with Premiership for attendances is running behind schedule.

Prediction: Will be grateful for small beatings.