By Michael McMullan

THE latest chapter in the St Paul’s minor story begins this weekend with two games down for decision.

Magherafelt fell narrowly to eventual champions Four Masters last year but they are back for another crack.

They face Antrim champions St Brigid’s on Saturday in the first game (Coláiste Feirste, 5pm).

On Sunday, Coláiste Feirste is also the location where Mayobridge face Cavan side Kingscourt (1pm).

The final will again be held on New Year’s Day and is now firmly cemented on the GAA calendar.

A change this season will see the competition back to the u-18 grade after a spell at u-17 level.

“It is great to launch another year of the fonaCAB Ulster Minor Football Tournament, supported by Belfast City Council,” said tournament organiser Conor McCartan.

“The tournament has gone from strength to strength over the past decade and that is a testament to the prestige of the tournament to minor footballers all over the province.”

Draw in full

Preliminary Round – Sun, Nov 24 Coláiste Feirste 1pm 
Mayobridge v Kingscourt

Quarter-finals 
1 – St Brigid’s v Magherafelt Sat, Nov 23 Coláiste Feirste 5pm 
2 – Irvinestown v Clann Éireann Sun, Dec, 1 Coláiste Feirste 1pm 
3 – Scotstown v Four Masters Sun, Dec 8  – St Paul’s 1pm
4 – Cookstown v Mayobridge/Kingsgcourt Sun, Dec 15  – St Paul’s 1pm

Semi-finals
1 v 2 – Sunday, December 22 – St Paul’s 1pm
3 v 4 –  Thursday, December 26 – St Paul’s 1pm

Final – Wednesday, January 1, 2025 – St Paul’s 1pm