Derry manager Brian McIver expects nothing easy from Down in their 2015 Ulster SFC opener.

Thr Oak Leafers and the Mourne County have faced off regularly in the championship in recent times and are due to renew acquaintances next summer for a place in next season's Anglo-Celt Cup semi-finals.

"Nothing has really changed," the Derry boss says in The Irish News in reaction to the Ulster draw. "It's the nature of the Ulster championship. No matter who you get, you know you are in for a tough draw.

"Ulster is the only provincial championship that is competitive. Down are coming in with Jim McCorry in charge for the first time. They have a number of players returning.

"But in any championship season, Down are always a major threat. We know that ourselves. They turned us over in Celtic Park last year. We know that we have some work to be doing between now and the summer."

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