Kildare are hotly fancied to at least gain promotion this year but after their performance against Louth in the O'Byrne Cup semi final last Sunday, major improvement will be needed if the Lilywhite's are to make an impact on the GAA's secondary competition.

Without the likes of the suspended Johnny Doyle and Morgan O'Flaherty, Alan Smith, Eamonn Callaghan and Mikey Conway, Kildare put in a lack lustre showing against the men from the Wee County and make no mistake about it, they will get an much sterner test from newly promoted Down in St Conleth's Park this Sunday (throw in 2.30pm). The following weekend they face the other promoted side Tipperary in Thurles.

Thus far in season 2010 McGeeney's side have failed to find the back of the net, have had more than their fair share of disciplinary problems and, of course, injury problems.

Boss Kieran McGeeney will be hoping for some good news on Morgan O'Flaherty this week however.

The Carbury man was given an eight week ban for his involvement in the O'Moore Park brawl but he has appealed the decision and Leinster Council are set to deliberate on the appeal tonight (Wednesday).