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Off the Record

Off the Record


Last Updated Jul 2010
By: OISIN McCONVILLE

SUNDAY'S game between Fermanagh and Armagh is s huge test for the Orchard players, because everyone is expecting them to win.

And while I believe we should, the players need to put those expectations to one side and simply get on with the job in hand, which is to beat Fermanagh.

All Armagh need to do is ensure their name is in the draw for the third round of the All-Ireland Qualifiers next month and that is what matters.

If we can get two winners together it should breath new life into this Armagh team.

It will mean we will be playing every couple of weeks and that is what Armagh needs to do to improve confidence in players.

We haven't seen the best of Armagh yet, and we mightn't see it on Sunday, but there is a big performance in this team.

Paddy O'Rourke will probably make a few changes from the team that started against Donegal. Kieran Toner is an obvious choice in midfield, but I wouldn't tweak a whole lot more as I thought we looked dangerous in Crossmaglen, and hopefully we look likewise in Enniskillen.

It is a wonderful achievement for the Armagh Minors to get to another Ulster Final after defeating Cavan on Sunday night.

While they will want to win back-to-back Ulster titles, the Orchard lads have at least guaranteed two further games, which gives the county a huge boost.

Sunday's result was massive and it is good that we weren't overly impressive because it means we have something to prove when we play Tyrone in the Final.

The Red Hands are a strong physical team and know how to move the ball, with plenty of guile and natural ball winners. But Armagh can win and I honestly believe that they are good enough to push for another All-Ireland title.

Can you imagine the lift that would give the county?

The Minor management and staff deserve a lot of praise because they have put Armagh underage football back on the map, which is something the county has been crying out for.

It was also a brilliant weekend for the Armagh Hurlers. Winning the Nicky Rackard Cup was just rewards for the huge amount of work the players, managers and staff have put in over the years.

I am delighted for Paul McCormack. He chose to play hurling for the county when he could be playing football for Armagh, and it is his commitment and drive which has pushes Armagh hurling up the agenda.

It is our first ever national senior hurling title and these men will go down in history as legends.

The hurlers have suffered heartbreak in Croke Park before and to finally win at Headquarters is a relief and hopefully they can continue to improve and be fit for the Christy Ring next season.


 


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