Junior All-Ireland Final
Wexford vs Armagh
Sunday 12th Sept – Croke Park – 12.00pm
They say that familiarity breeds contempt. If true, there’s bound to be a bit of hatred between these two sides at this stage.
More so Armagh’s side, as they have lost to the Yellow-Bellies in the previous three meetings this year.
They’ll hope to change that stat this weekend when the pair face off in the 2021 Junior All-Ireland final.
The defending championship aim to compete the double on Sunday after capturing the title last season.
Armagh saw off Cavan in the 2020 showpiece after beating Tyrone and Roscommon along the way.
They’ve overcame Waterford and Limerick in the group stages before beating Clare to reach the 2021 decider.
The only blot on their record is a round three defeat to Wexford. That encounter meant very little however, as both teams had already qualified for the last eight.
It was the previous two meetings that hurt more, as the sides clashed twice during an exciting league campaign.
Wexford overcame the Orchard County in the league final on a day where Armagh struggled to reach the levels required.
They bounced back instantly with a superb Ulster campaign, which eventually saw Armagh crowned champions.
Team News
Sunday’s clash could see Mattie Lennon cap a fabulous first season in charge of the Camogs.
The Derrynoose native has recalled plenty of experience to the squad, with Grainne McWilliams, Shelly McArdle, Colette McSorley and Bernie Murray all starting tomorrow.
The go-to player will once again be captain and 2020 Player of the Year Ciara Donnelly, who has been sensational season.
Eimear Smyth is a real goal threat up front and Orlagh Murray will also be there to help take some of the burden off Donnelly, while Rachael Merry remains sidelined.
Ciara Hill has been one of the standout performers of the campaign while Leanne Donnelly has a new lease of life at centre field.
Gemma McCann and Caella Casey complete a strong half back line, marshalled by Granemore woman McWilliams.
Aisling Harvey, Nicola Woods and Stephaine Curry make up the last line of defence while Ciarrai Devlin will once again protect the goals.
They have plenty of talent to come of the bench in Sinead Kiernan, Eimear Hays and Louise Toner.
Armagh have a phenomenal opportunity to create history tomorrow and only their best will do. They know they have enough to trouble Wexford and get over the line. Let’s hope they can do it!
