Semi spot up for grabs in Warwickshire

Three years ago, Armagh made the long trip to England to face Warwickshire in round two of the Nicky Rackard Cup.

They got nothing easy and travelled home with a share of the spoils after an entertaining and high scoring affair.

0-16 from Dean Gaffney and a Danny Magee goal helped Armagh earn a 2-18 to 1-21 draw.

That point picked up proved crucial as it secured Armagh’s place in the semi-finals of the competition.

Depending on the circumstances, a point won’t do tomorrow, however. If Armagh are to secure their spot in the promotion shake up, they may need a win.

They currently sit level with Monaghan, but the head-to-head result means the Orchard have the advantage.

If the Farney men are to pull off a shock and defeat Roscommon, then Armagh will need to secure victory.

The likelihood is that the Rossie’s will have too much, and they’ll face Armagh in the last four.

Armagh travel to Warwickshire tomorrow
Photo Credit: Richiespics

Team news

New manager Terence McNaughton has named his side to face Warwickshire, with a few changes from recent weeks.

‘Sambo’ hands Glenn McKeown, Artie McGuinness, Tiarnan O’Neill and Shea Harvey their first starts of the campaign.

McKeown, McGuinness and Harvey have saw no game time so far, while O’Neill has been influential off the bench.

The Keady man will begin the game at corner forward. He’s hit 1-1 from his three appearances this year.

There’s a new look midfield. Jim Short, who scored 1-2 against Tyrone, and Fionntan Donnelly line out in the centre.

Donnelly has taken over has chief free taker and hit 0-15 the last day out against Roscommon. Bringing his tally for the season to 0-22.

Armagh should make the semi-finals and McNaughton will want to get his tenure off to a good start.

The Nicky Rackard Cup is only three weeks away, so another competitive outing or two will be great preparation.