Two-tier hurling championship introduced in Ulster

November 10, 2015

Armagh's Nathan Curry with Gareth Johnston of Down during the Ulster SHC quarter-final at the Athletic Grounds.
©INPHO/Presseye/William Cherry.

The Ulster SHC is undergoing a major revamp next season, with the introduction of a two-tier format.

For an initial two-year trial period, Antrim, Derry, Armagh and Down will compete in the top level while Fermanagh, Donegal, Monaghan and Tyrone will face off in the second tier. Cavan have opted out of the competition for the time being.

Semi-finals and a final will be staged in both tiers, with promotion and relegation taking place between the tiers.

In Tier One next year, Antrim will play Derry with Armagh facing Down in the semi-finals. The winners will contest the final and the semi-final losers will meet in a play-off, with the losing side swapping places with the winner of the second-tier competition.

No dates have been confirmed for the competition yet, although it is believed that Ulster Council would like to run it off in July, after the Christy Ring, Nicky Rackard and Lory Meagher Cup competitions have concluded.


Most Read Stories