Sunday's Ulster Championship game at Brewster Park is a tough one to call.

There is not much difference in terms of quality on either side it will come down to whatever side makes the most of that quality on the day.

As seen over the opening weekend of Ulster Championship football, the weather will play a big part in determining what kind of game is played. With wind and rain forecast it may not be a game for the purists.

For the home side, it hasn't been the easiest of first year's in management for Ryan McMenamin and relegation to Division Three is not the best preparation.

However, there is cause for optimism.

In the last two league games against Clare and Laois, Fermanagh were the victims of their own downfall.

The old problems of the past came back to haunt them, with a failure to convert scoring chances the most prevalent. But these are things they can control and remedy themselves.

In each game they played some good football and dominated for long periods, especially against Laois.

What was also promising were the performances of some new faces on the scene.

Sean McNally in goals looks assured, while he is well able to vary his kickouts to give Fermanagh a good platform to build from. He is also very accurate from long range frees which may be important in what could be a low scoring affair.

Luke Flanagan at corner back has not looked out of place. Neither has Josh Largo-Elis or Daire O'Cathain and it would be no surprise to see most of them featuring on Sunday at some stage.

Add their youthful exuberance in amongst the experience of Eoin Donnelly, Ryan Jones, Declan McCusker, James McMahon and Richie O'Callaghan and Fermanagh have more than enough to put Down to the sword.

The performance of the Fermanagh forwards will be vital. They need to make the most of the chances they get against what is expected to be a very congested Down defence.

Tomas Corrigan will likely lead the attack with O'Callaghan possibly put on the edge of the square for a physical presence . While Ciaran Corrigan has the quality to tear Down to shreds if he gets enough of the ball.

Who Fermanagh play on the 40 will be interesting as the ball going into the full forward line will have to be on the money.

Paddy Tally will have Down well drilled and compact to try and stop any quick ball reaching the forwards. And if it is turned over the likes of Caolan Mooney, Ryan Johnston and Kevin McKernan will look to drive forward at pace.

With Donal O'Hare and Jerome Johnston expected to line out in the full forward line, Down have two players of proven match winning ability.

Johnston has a keen eye for a goal and could look for sight at every opportunity to test young McNally.

O'Hare has been around a long time and has no problem finding the posts either.

While Fermanagh were relegated and Down promoted, there is very little between the sides.

What may have some bearing on the game is Fermanagh have two competitive league matches under their belt. While Down did play Louth in their last league game it was with a much changed team and they were easily beaten.

Quite possibly that little bit more match sharpness, along with home advantage will help Fermanagh get over the line.