Refreshed City of Derry ready for Armagh test

Two defeats has seen Derry’s lead at the top of Division 2B cut to 10 points with four games remaining.

“It couldn’t have come at a better time for us because we were hurting in all senses of the word, physically and mentally,” said McMaster

“We had seven chances to beat Dungannon and we didn’t take one of them, we missed four kicks and turned down three at goal from penalties.

“Two were from the scrum because we thought we’d get a penalty try and the other one was in front of the posts .

“The conditions were nearly unplayable and you need to get your nose in front in a game like that, especially with the elements at your back and we never did.

“We turned around 9-7 down and all we need to do is take what points come our way and we turned three easy kicks down and you get your comeuppance when you do that.

“We know that Sunday’s Well have ourselves, Highfield and Greystones so somebody is going to lose points there, we need to be on the money against Armagh.

“Greystones are fourth on 42 points then there is an 11 point gap so everybody below them is potentially in that playoff spot to be relegated so it will be another spicy Ulster derby.”

Derry face another Ulster derby as they travel to Armagh on Saturday.

He added; “It’s a ground I always enjoyed playing at and coaching at because it’s not as exposed as other grounds.

“The conditions while they always play a part maybe don’t play as big a part because it is enclosed and the crowd get behind their team.

“We need to control the things that are controllable that’s our commitment, effort and shape with and without the ball.”

Andrew Semple returns from injury meaning Simon Logue moves from scrum half to wing.

Meanwhile Dungannon host Highfield.