Rian O’Neill is expecting a “tough game” when Crossmaglen take on Clan na Gael in Sunday’s senior decider.
The sides clashed in the opening round of the championship and a late Shane McPartlan goal saw them finish all square.
It’s a rivalry that has lasted the test of time as the two clubs dominated the championship during the 70s.
“Growing up we would have heard about big battles between the Clans and Cross,” said O’Neill, speaking to Armagh TV after their semi-final win over Madden.
“Clans are a footballing stranglehold in Lurgan, and they seem to be coming back to the top. “They beat our minors there twice in the county final, back-to-back.
“We know the pedigree they have having played with Soupy (Stefan Campbell) and Shane (McPartlan) in the county.
“We’re under no illusions it’s going to be a very tough game and they’re going from strength to strength. We’re just going to have to try and tame them a bit.
“We know their managers; I was in school under Ronan McMahon and Eamon McEvoy. We know what they’re going to do bring to the table, two good men.
“They have young players, young Callum O’Neill and that are really pushing on and we know we’re going to have to be at the top of our game.”
Brotherly bond
For the last two games, against Armagh Harps and Madden, O’Neill has shared the pitch with his two brothers.
Oisin returned this year having missed out through injury in 202 while Aaron is just out of minors.
“That’s the first time we’re all played together at senior (in the Athletic Grounds). I suppose it’s special for the family to have all three of us there playing in the one game.
“Aaron won a free for us there near the end, a vital free and hopefully he’ll just push on for us now.
“Oisin gave us a big lift when he came back in this year, it’s like having a new player. He’s pushing on rightly and he’ll probably carry the same form into the county next year.”
