Brian Canavan: Ulster win key for Armagh’s future progress

By Alan Rodgers

NEARLY two long decades of provincial failure were finally cast aside by Armagh as the outpouring of emotion following their first Ulster title since 2008 was reflected in the celebrations that engulfed St Tiernach’s Park on Sunday.

It was a victory which represented a fitting climax to 18 years of frustration for the Orchard county. But perhaps more important was the fact that this win over Monaghan ended the increasingly worrying sequence of defeats in Ulster Finals.

So, the win was worth much more for a side which has already tasted All-Ireland glory.

For, there’s no doubt about the negative impact that would have been forthcoming if Armagh had lost a fourth provincial decider in extra time.

Former manager Brian Canavan, who as manager broke a 17 year losing streak alongside Brian McAlinden in 1999 believes that the win over Monaghan provides Kieran McGeeney and the players with the perfect boost ahead of the All-Ireland series.

“This success is long overdue because we’ve had four years of going to extra time. Monaghan looked like they had the impetus going into extra time, but the strength of Armagh bringing on a few subs certainly made the difference,” he said.

“Full credit to Monaghan because I thought they were dead and buried. We were seven in front and Stephen O’Hanlon, (Conor) McCarthy and Rory Beggan putting over two pointers. But fair dues to Armagh who showed resilience, Oisin O’Neill got the goal and Daniel Magee came on and did really well.

“The momentum and everything was with Monaghan in the second half. Jack McCarron came on and scored a two-pointer and they had a chance to go a couple in front towards the end.

“There was nothing between the teams throughout the game.”

Armagh now progress to the All-Ireland Series where they play Derry in the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds next weekend. Brian Canavan believes this win is extremely important for their future development and progress.

“This win gets the monkey off their back because they haven’t won one in 18 or 19 years. That’s Kieran McGeeney’s first as a manager, even though he has won many as a captain and the All-Ireland as well,” he added.

“Winning trophies is what it’s all about and you only have to look at the crowd out here.

“Ulster champions still means a lot for counties.

“This will give a good boost, but they’re going to have to look at a lot of things.

“They pick up Derry now and are in with a shout as one of the top four of five teams in the country.

“I wasn’t that cool inside. When you’re on the line it’s a job and a working day, but you do learn to appreciate days like this.”