If recent history is anything to go by, the Orchard should secure their second win of the national league campaign.
Armagh have held the upper hand against Monaghan in the last few years. There’s no suggestion that anything will change come Sunday.
Last year, Padraig O’Connor’s men where much too strong away to Monaghan. They won 1-27 to 2-15 in the end.
The margin was much bigger in 2020. Eoin McGuinness (2) and Marty Moan both hit the net in a 3-25 to 1-10 victory.
McGuinness is the man of the moment as he also hit a brace of goals when introduced to the fray last weekend.
His contribution of 2-1 in the second half helped Armagh see off a stubborn Louth to pick up the two points on offer.
The Newry Shamrock’s attacker also raised a green flag against the Farney men last season. He makes the starting line-up for this weekend’s clash.
Dean Gaffney was also on fire in round one, rattling off 0-10 to top score for the Orchard. Including knocking over the winning point.
Promotion push
The Orchard are targeting a big promotion push this season and a win this Sunday would signal a perfect start.
For long periods last Saturday, they struggled, but still had enough to pull it out of the bag and get over the line.
Playing badly and winning is the sign of a good team. Last week’s victory will surely fill the hurlers with confidence.
Bigger challenges against the likes of Tyrone and Roscommon lie ahead in the coming weeks, but Armagh won’t take their eye off the ball.
Their bench can once again have a big say, with Fionntan Donnelly, Michael Lennon, Peter McKearney and Shaun Toal all strong options to come in.
Armagh should continue their winning start to the season and remain on track for a tilt at the league title.
