Kieran McGeeney has named his starting fifteen to take the field this Sunday. Armagh welcome Antrim to the Athletic Grounds to open their championship account.
This will be Geezer’s 10th Ulster Championship game as boss. Wins over Down (2019) and Derry (2020) are the Orchard County’s only successes in the competition under McGeeney’s watch.
They are hot favourites against the Saffron’s this weekend and have named a powerful starting line-up.
Blaine Hughes retains his spot between the sticks. This will be the Carrickcruppen man’s 14th straight start for Armagh.
Ross Finn comes into the defence to make his championship debut, as does Tiernan Kelly in attack.
Ciaron O’Hanlon picks up his first championship start since the 2017 All-Ireland quarter final against Tyrone.
The Killeavy man last featured in the Ulster Championship versus Down that same year.
Niall Grimley keeps the number eight jersey he held right throughout the league and will partner Oisin O’Neill in midfield.
Rian O’Neill has been his sides top scorer in the championship the last two seasons, and this will be his third year in the orange and white.
Rory Grugan first featured for Armagh against Antrim ten years ago. That game was also in the Athletic Grounds, with Antrim winning by three.
The Hurlers begin their championship campaign as well this weekend. They will also enjoy home advantage when they met Tyrone on Saturday.
The sides have shared an intense rivalry of late. The Orchard County have held the upper hand in recent meetings and will hope that trend continues.
Simon Doherty and Ciaran Clifford both started the 2012 Nicky Rackard Cup final. The last time Armagh got their hands on the trophy.
Peter McKearney enjoyed a good league campaign and forms a solid centre-field pairing with Middletown’s Odhran Curry.
Eoin McGuinness and Mark McClatchey are on the wings while Paddy McBride lines out at centre half forward.
Fionntan Donnelly has impressed with his accuracy in front of the posts. The Keady star very rarely has a off day.
Danny Magee recorded goals against Longford and Tyrone in the league, both games played in the Athletic Grounds. A good omen perhaps for the Sean Tracey’s sharpshooter.
