It’s been four years since the orange and white of the Armagh camogie team featured in an All-Ireland final, but they are back in the showpiece this weekend.
Back in 2016, the Orchard County were defeated in the decider by Carlow, with the eventual winners gabbing three second half goals to claim glory.
A lot of that team remain in the Armagh ranks, including all three of their inside line with the two Donnelly’s Ciara and Leanne as well as Rachael Merry.
Those three sharp shooters have been in fine form to date, hitting a combined tally of 2-25 between them in two games.
Across their two outings against Roscommon and Tyrone, on their way to Saturday’s final, Armagh have struck a whopping 5-28.
Roscommon posed little threat the first day out and Armagh breezed through the opening round of the competition with little fuss.
They outscored their opponents 3-18 to 0-4 to qualify for the last four. Ciara and Leanne Donnelly both hit the net that day, as did joint captain Orlagh Murray.
They faced a much sterner examination the next day out when the welcomed their old rivals Tyrone to Crossmaglen.
Three first half goals from the Red Hand County put them in the driving seat by half time, as they led 3-1 to 0-5.
Armagh came roaring back in the second period and weren’t to be denied a place in this year’s Premier Junior All-Ireland Final.
Eimear Smyth was sprung from the bench and her two goals helped Armagh get over the line with three points to spare, 2-10 to 3-4.
Now they face Cavan, who have been in fantastic form this season. They captured the Nancy Murray Cup back in November, defeating Tyrone in the final.
Jimmy Greyville’s side also saw off Roscommon with ease in the semi-final to set up and All-Ulster, All-Ireland final.
The game has been fixed for Breffni Park, giving Cavan a slight advantage from the off, with Breffni being their home.
Armagh will not be concerned with the venue as they will have their minds firmly set on securing All-Ireland success.
Their forward unit has been key to date and another big game will be needed this weekend if they are to get their hands on the trophy.
Louise Toner is the rock of the defence at centre half back and is surrounded back a strong team that has conceded just 3-8 in two games.
Ciara Hill brings a tenacious work ethic to the middle of the park while Orlagh Murray is likely to be handed a starting role this weekend.
The support has been fantastic for the Camogs over the last few weeks and they will look forward to getting on to the field and displaying their talents in an All-Ireland final.
