St Paul’s chairman Ciaran Cooper (centre) holds the cup as Sean Walsh (left) of sponsors Fonacab and Dublin star Brian Fenton make the draw for the annual St Paul’s Minor Football tournament today. Pic by John McIlwaine

Defending champions Burren face a tough preliminary round against Donegal champions St Eunan’s Letterkenny in this years Fonacab St Paul’s Minor Football tournament at Shaw’s Road. The Down champions, who beat Kilrea in last year’s final, were first out of the hat at today’s draw in the St Paul’s clubrooms, which followed the official opening of the club’s new terracing and 4G pitch. Dublin midfield star Brian Fenton, who had cut the ribbon to officially open the new facilities earlier in the day, was joined by Sean Walsh of tournament sponsors Fonacab and St Paul’s chairman Ciaran Cooper as they drew the nine teams taking part in this year’s competition.

Antrim champions Rossa will play Kilany of Monaghan, Tyrone champions Errigal Ciaran will face Derry’s Ballinascreen, Fermanagh’s Enniskillen Gaels take on whoever emerges from the Cavan final between Ramor and Southern Gaels while Armagh champions Clann Eireann play winners of the preliminary round between Burren and St Eunan’s Letterkenny.

Dates will be decided after consultation with Ulster Colleges GAA but it is hoped to get the games underway on December 3rd. 

Dublin star Brian Fenton is assisted by Ulster GAA President Michael Hasson as he cuts the ribbon to mark the official opening of the new 4G pitch at St Paul’s GAC, Shaw’s Road

More pics of today’s opening of the 4G pitch will be posted later