Armagh supporters had one objective on Sunday, and it was to turn Croke Park orange and they did that emphatically.
The colour and atmosphere created by the Orchard support no doubt spurred the team on in the final ten minutes when they came from six down to salvage a draw.
The noise created when Rian O’Neill landed his last gasp equaliser was incredible and the Armagh fans outnumbered the rest of the three counties involved in Sunday’s games put together.
Orchard boss Kieran McGeeney was understandably disappointed by Armagh’s All-Ireland exit and the end of their season.
But he spoke highly of the Armagh support and described the followers as “the best supporters out there” after the game.
Supporters
“They’re fantastic, what could you say? Even the whole way through the penalties, right up until the end they were backing you right to the hilt.
“They’re a fantastic group. I’ve been part of Armagh since I’ve been 12 years of age and they’re the best supporters out there.
“Even through the thick and thin we have a group who just never miss. You get texts from them, and you see them out in everyday life and they’re just good people.
“They love their football and it’s just a pity we couldn’t give them a wee bit extra there today.”
It was a heart-breaking end to the season, but this team gave it’s supporters so much to shout about this year.
The three victories over Tyrone in the McKenna Cup, league and championship will live long in the memory along with their victory over Donegal.
The packed houses of the Athletic Grounds, Clones and Croker will have inspired the next generation of Armagh players and followers.
There’ll be plenty of more big days out to come in the next few years. Already 2023 is a season to look forward to.
