Former Galway star Anthony Cunningham will make his debut as Roscommon hurling manager on Sunday, February 29 when his new charges take on Derry in their National League opener at Athleague. It is a difficult game for Cunningham to start off with, bearing in mind that Derry spent the last three years playing in Division 1. "Things are going well so far," reported Cunningham, who has been living in Kiltoom for the past number of years. "We've trained pretty hard and the turnouts have been good. We've played four or five challenge matches. We haven't conceded much in those games which is a good sign. "You have to put in the work. It doesn't matter what division you're in, you have to put the work in to keep your place. We have a strong contingent from Athleague and Four Roads and there are a few newcomers." Looking ahead to Sunday's game, Cunningham said: "Derry will be a tall order. They were in Division 1 last year. It's only two years ago since they gave Offaly a good run of it. They've been training since November. "Having said that, we're looking forward to the challenge and it's all systems go. It's unfortunate that the four matches are together in March. If it was more spread out, it would give you that a bit more time." Tweet

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