THE PAIN GAME…John Martin expects Benny McCarry and co. to inflict more pain on Slaughtneil

GAELIC Life’s hurling columnist John Martin has predicted another year of agony for the Slaughtneil hurlers.

The Robert Emmet’s go into Sunday’s final against Loughgiel at the Athletic Grounds attempting to become the first Derry side to lift the Four Seasons Cup, but Martin isn’t confident of their chances.

“Slaughtneil are now carrying the Oak Leaf banner and having frightened the life out of Loughgiel and Cushendall (twice), they can rightfully assume the mantle of Ulster champions in waiting,” he said.

“Ulster champions in waiting is of course different to being Ulster champions-elect. And after Sunday, despite the performances of the past three years, I think the waiting will continue for at least another year.”

The full column is in today’s Gaelic Life which is available in shops now or online here.