Kilcoo star Ceilum Doherty says he is relishing the Down champions’ entry into another Ulster club senior football championship this weekend.

The Magpies take on Monaghan champions Ballybay this Sunday in Clones (1.30pm), where they will open their Ulster and All-Ireland title defences against the home side whom dumped out Crossmaglen Rangers last weekend.

Speaking to BelfastLive.co.uk, Doherty said that occasions like this “are special”.

“The Ulster championship is a very special competition and it always has been,” he stated.

“Whenever I came to watch the Ulster Championship games when I was younger and I loved it and now I’m just so appreciative that I’m playing in it.

"Any time we’ve been lucky enough to win our own county, I’ve enjoyed it because these games are special.

“When the lights are on and the atmosphere heats up - it is a special time and we’re happy to be here.”

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