By Michael McMullan

TOP of the table is in Armagh’s own hands as they welcome Laois for this weekend’s clash in the All-Ireland Junior Camogie Championship.

Under new manager PJ O’Mullan, they’ve tested themselves this season. As well as life in Division Two, they entered the Ulster Senior Championship where they took Derry to extra-time before going down.

“We definitely noticed that you have to step up a level,” said attacking ace Rachael Merry, who is happy for her side to be mixing with teams previously above them on the ladder.

“They’re bigger, they’re stronger, they’re faster, but we felt like we could compete with the likes of Derry and Meath.

“We all stepped up a wee bit whenever you’re competing at that level. I think it was definitely a good baseline for us going into the championship.”

Armagh have beaten Tyrone, Roscommon, Louth and Wicklow so far, all on the back of their progress, effort and being forced to up their performances earlier in the season.

Laois have also won all their games and it leaves this weekend’s showdown deciding top spot ahead of the semi-finals.

Armagh’s score difference means a draw would be enough but it’s not something Merry is buying into. Teams fielded different sides throughout the league.

“Basically, whoever wins between us and Laois will top the group,” she said.

“I wouldn’t even really think too much into score differences. Some teams could have had injuries or whatnot, so it’s basically just who can win the next game to top the group.”

On their season so far, Armagh found the going tough but are now, as Merry states, exactly where they want to be.

“We’re putting in the work and I think it’s going well as far as we can tell at the minute,” she said, “but the next few weeks’, that will tell how we’re getting on.”

Armagh have called up some of their recent All-Ireland winning minor squad but have lost some players at the other end. It’s par for the course with any team.

“I would say it’s definitely a different panel but we’re strong and I think we’ve got a really good chance.” Merry said of their chances.

“Every year’s different with girls. Some go travelling, some retire. You don’t know what the next year holds. You just really get on with the panel you have and it seems to be working so well so far.”