Roscommon always bring something different says Armagh camog McCann

By Niall Gartland

ARMAGH camogis have lost more than their fair share of finals in recent years but Saturday’s Division 3A final date with Roscommon at Abbotstown is more about clinching promotion than a piece of silverware.

Though the Orchard camogs did manage to win the Division 3A final two years ago, they’ve lost a number of All-Ireland finals in recent years, including last year’s Premier Junior showdown against Laois.

Madden camog Gemma McCann is hoping for a swift return to Division Two camogie but in order to do that, they must account for Roscommon this weekend – a team against whom they enjoy a strong record.

“We won the league two years ago when we got up to Division Two. After that, we had a few defeats —–we lost every match in Division Two, but they were all narrow losses. We bounced back in the championship, and reached the All-Ireland final, where we were beaten by Laois. We’ve made a few finals, and it’s just getting over the line that’s been difficult. But hopefully that experience will give us the hunger to get back to Division Two. We really enjoy playing at that higher standard – that’s everyone’s aim – and hopefully it’ll bring out a bit more fight in us.”

Armagh saw off the Rossies in the round robin by 3-11 to 0-12 and in general they have an impressive track record against the Connacht-based opposition. McCann is wary of letting things slip on the big day, however.

“They’re very skilful and very fit. Every time we’ve played them, it’s been different – different players step up each time. Their stickwork is brilliant. Their forwards will run at us and take us on, so we’re expecting a really good game against them.”

“We had a good win against them back in February but we know when it comes to the final it’s going to be very different. Both teams will bring new things. It’ll be a good, tight game – it always has been. There’s never been an obvious winner in any of the games we’ve played. I’d say it’ll be the same again; it’ll come down to the last few minutes, hopefully.”

McCann also had warm words for their manager PJ O’Mullan, who is now in his second year in charge of the team. The Loughgiel man has managed at the highest levels and he’s bringing his vast experience to the Orchard County.

“It’s great, he brings that experience to us and has done very well with the team. Everyone appreciates all the hard work they do — PJ and his wife, Ciara, and Aidy [McCann] coming in this year as well. They all bring great experience, especially Ciara with the goalkeepers and defenders. It’s brilliant having them involved.”