Here we go again. It’s Donegal, again. The wounds of the Ulster championship are still fresh for Armagh folk, but last week’s win has helped to heal some of those scares.
And now it’s a chance for Kieran McGeeney’s men to redeem themselves against their old foes.
Donegal dominated proceedings in Ballybofey, almost two months ago, and Armagh just didn’t show their worth.
Last weekend’s six-point win over Tyrone was a fairer reflection of where this Armagh team are at the minute.
Clones
The intensity, passion and drive Armagh displayed last Sunday will be needed once again in Clones this week.
And for the fans, getting to see the orange and white streaming through the streets of Clones will evoke memories of the good old days.
Armagh’s visits to the Monaghan town have been few and far between over the last number of seasons.
The Orchard County played in Clones three times in 2019 and twice in 2014. But they haven’t faced Donegal in Clones since 2005.
And times have changed dramatically since then. Back during the noughties, it was Armagh who held the upper hand in those duals.
Now it’s Donegal who dominate the rivalry. They’ve earned victory in the last four championship meetings, winning three of those convincingly.
Chance to turn the tide
Sunday is a chance for Armagh to turn the tide and get back on top. A win would also see them guaranteed a game in Croke Park for the All-Ireland quarter finals.
It’s far from a forgone conclusion though. Despite tasting defeat to Derry in the Ulster final, Donegal know how to win games against Ulster opposition.
Any team that olds the quality of Michael Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Paddy McBrearty and Michael Langan will also pose a huge test.
But Sunday is about Armagh. It’s about how they react to what happened in Ballybofey and how the deal with the expectation growing once again.
It’s all to play for and a do or die clash, which seems to bring the best out in the Armagh team. If they perform to their potential they’ll be well on their way to winning this game.
