Croke Park suits this Armagh team. That’s the general belief throughout the county and probably further afield.
The wide-open spaces of headquarters will suit Armagh’s kicking style of play. The more room for the forwards to excel in the better.
Armagh already have the experience of playing there. They began their National League campaign away to Dublin in round one.
That was a pleasant evening for Kieran McGeeney’s men as goals from Rian O’Neill and Jason Duffy saw them topple the Dubs 2-15 to 1-13.
It’s been a while since they played any championship football on Jones’ Road, however. The last time was back in the 2017 All-Ireland quarter final against Tyrone.
Kicking game
Kieran Donaghy, who played in Croke Park on big days many times throughout his career in the green and gold of Kerry, agrees with the narrative.
Speaking after Armagh’s ten-point win over Donegal, Donaghy spoke about the advantages of playing on the hallowed turf.
“Croke Park will suit the team, Clones is a fine big pitch. We played well in Croke Park down there against Dublin in a big pitch.
“I think a big pitch suits our kicking style. This is what these players trained for from the start of the year is to play in Croke Park.
“Obviously, you’ve a few chances, you’ve a National League final to get there, we didn’t make it. And now you have a quarter final of the championship and we’re in there.”
Armagh haven’t played Galway in the championship since 2015, one of only three championship meetings between the sides.
The others were in 2013 and 2001 (in Croke Park) and Armagh have never beaten the Tribesmen in the championship.
Sunday’s quarter final is sure to be a great occasion as both sides will be eyeing up a huge chance to reach the last four of the All-Ireland series.
