By Michael McMullan

THE St Paul’s minor football tournament will return to the u-18 grade when it gets under way later this year.

With the GAA changing age groups at underage, the tournament – sponsored by fonaCAB – has been at u-17 before this year’s return.

Reigning champions Four Masters are back challenging at the top in Donegal but will need to see off Naomh Conaill in Saturday’s final if they are to return to defend their title in Belfast.

Magherafelt, fancied last year before being knocked out by Four Masters in the opening round, will return and will be among the favourites.

Cookstown came back from the jaws of defeat to edge out Eglish in a pulsating Tyrone final before adding the league title.

Clann Éireann (Armagh), Mayobridge (Down and St Brigid’s (Antrim) have also booked their places.

The Monaghan final, between Scotstown and Monaghan Harps, has yet to take place.

Last year’s beaten finalists Cavan Gaels have been knocked out, with Southern Gaels and Kingscourt set to clash in the Breffni decider.

Fermanagh are the furthest from producing a winner with their quarter-finals set for this weekend.

“This tournament is held in the highest regard by Gaels across Ulster and Ireland,” commented Naomh Pól Chairperson Caroline McLaughlin.

“It is great to see the buzz about CLG Naomh Pól, participating clubs and communities across the province since we have been given the approval.

“Our thanks to all at Ulster Schools and Ulster GAA for the continued support in facilitating this year’s tournament which is back to the traditional u-18 age grade.”

This is the 41^st time the competition will be played with just two seasons missed – due to Covid-19 – since it began in 1982.

Glen’s four-in-a-row is the most eye-catching statistic with another Derry team – Ballinderry – winning the title four times.

Bellaghy gave won it three times with the cup won by a Derry club on 18 occasions from the 40 to date.

“fonaCAB is delighted to be involved with the fantastic Ulster Minor Football Tournament,” said William McCausland of the competition sponsors. “We wish CLG Naomh Pól and all participating clubs the best of luck throughout the Christmas and New Year period.”