IT CANNOT be overstated how much is riding on this match for Derry. Like Donegal last year, Derry chased the league silverware once it became apparent they were in with a shout. And although they have stressed they know its limited value, their impressive performance against Kerry in Parnell Park ought not to be cheapened.

Kevin McCloy is the full back's full back, a traditional, fair-hitting boss of the square who has an excellent read of the game. He has Seán Marty Lockhart and Kevin McGuckin on either side of him, giving Derry's last line a brick-wall look, with lack of pace being the potential killer for them.

Around McCloy revolves a Derry defence that is ball-playing and energetic but, at times, fatally loose. Fergal Doherty has become a huge player at midfield. And the big change up front is that Derry have figured how to use Conleth Gilligan profitably and, led by the prolific Paddy Bradley, are capable of putting up big scores.

With McCloy likely to shadow Colm McFadden, the big question for Donegal is where their scores are going to come from. Brian McIver has picked a brave team, going with Michael Hegarty at centre-half forward and giving youth a chance in Michael Murphy and David Walsh. The ultra-busy and experienced Brian Roper must wait in the wings.

All in all, it is no bad team, with pace along the wings and plenty of size. The tough part for Paddy Crozier is that he cannot legislate for what Murphy and Walsh, not to mention the rejuvenated Rory Kavanagh, might bring to the party. Donegal have never played to any consistent pattern and so are difficult to plan against.

DONEGAL: P Durcan; K Lacey, N McGee, P McDaid; F McGlynn, E McGee, B Dunnion; K Cassidy, N Gallagher; C Toye, M Hegarty, R Kavanagh; M Murphy, C McFadden, D Walsh.

DERRY: J Deighan; K McGuckin, K McCloy, SM Lockhart; G O'Kane, N McCusker, M McIvor; F Doherty, J Diver; M Lynch, P Murphy, E Muldoon; C Gilligan, P Bradley, E Bradley.

Guidelines
In the last episode:Two years ago, neither team looked to be going anywhere special but produced an enjoyable and bruising encounter, which Donegal won by 1-13 to 0-11.
You bet:The odds are predictably tight, with the hosts at 5/4 while Derry are quoted at 11/10. A draw is 6/1.
On your marks:Brian McIver has clearly gone with youth this summer and has identified this match as the one for the new generation of Donegal forwards to stake their claims.
Gaining ground:Seán Mac Cumhaill Park is right in the heart of Ballybofey.
Just the ticket:The match is all-ticket. Entry to the stand is via Jackson's Lane only.
Stand cost is €30, terrace is €18.
Crystal gazing:Derry have earned the right to be favourites here.
Tipping Donegal is always a shot in the dark because they are so unreadable.