The Armagh minors welcome Derry to the Athletic Grounds for the opening round of the Ulster championship tomorrow evening.
It’s the fourth year in a row that Armagh face the Oak Leaf County in the first round. Last season was their only victory.
Brendan Hughes’ men made a remarkable comeback to earn their spot in the provincial semi-final.
Armagh were behind by three at the break and the gap was extended to five early in the second period.
Armagh powered forward in the last quarter and outscored their opponents 5-1. A late score from Callum O’Neill, the captain of the side this earn, confirmed the win.
Donegal eventually ended their run, but it was a step in the right direction for the Orchard youngsters.
Their one-point win over Derry was their first victory in the opening round of this age grade since 2016.
Hughes has named his starting 15 to take the field skipper O’Neill will lead his side into battle.
Vice-captain Aaron O’Neill lines out at centre half forward. The Crossmaglen man will hope to follow in the steps of his older brothers Oisin and Rian.
Up front, they’ll be looking to the likes of O’Neill, Ryan Duffy and James Austin to rack up most of their scores.
League
Armagh enjoyed a decent league campaign, picking up two wins from their four outings. They defeated both Antrim and Down.
Eventual league champions Tyrone got the better of them in the final round while Monaghan also defeated Armagh in a tight encounter.
It’s a big task for the Orchard, facing a Derry side that narrowly lost the league final to the Red Hands and topped their group, beating Sligo, Cavan and Fermanagh.
Home advantage could count for a lot at this age grade and a victory would kick start a big weekend of championship action in Armagh.
