If Armagh can overcome a tough Clare test this weekend, they’ll compete in their fourth All-Ireland final in a row.
In 2020, the Orchard County were crowned All-Ireland Junior champions with a heroic display against Cavan.
But because of Covid, there was no promotion to the Intermediate grade. Since then, Armagh have been battling to get back to that stage.
In 2021, Wexford halted their hopes in the decider while last season, in Croke Park, it was Antrim who dashed their dreams.
Despite numerous setback and heartaches, Armagh have remained determined to push on and deliver another All-Ireland title.
Armagh have blazed their way through to the semi-finals, with three huge wins on the trot, scoring 11 goals on their way.
Sean Hughes’ side have recorded an outstanding 11-81 and conceded just 1-13 in the championship so far.
But the challenge that Clare are going to pose will be much stronger than anything Mayo, Limerick or Offaly offered.
Like Armagh, the Banner County have been in exceptional form and have conceded 0-10 in three games.
In terms of scoring power, Clare have hit 10-63 on their way to the semi-final, so this has a shootout written all over it.
Team news
Hughes has named his starting team to travel to Donaghmore, Ashbourne in the hope of reaching the showpiece.
Ciarrai Devlin retains her spot in goals while Siodhna Woods, Tierna Maguire and Nicola Woods make up the full back line.
Joint captain of the team Michelle McGuigan is the rock of the defence at six. She’s flanked by Katie Comiskey and Aislinn Harvey.
At centerfield, Gemma McCann and Leanne Donnelly offer a seriously strong midfield partnership.
Granemore’s Corinna Doyle is sandwiched by two Ballymacnab sharpshooters in the half forward line, Eimear Smyth and Ellie McKee.
Jennifer Curry, the other joint-captain, lines out in the middle of a potent full forward line. She’s joined by scoring threats Sinead Quinn and Rachael Merry.
