ULSTER SFC QUARTER-FINAL/Monaghan v Armagh:YOU'VE GOT to think that deliverance time is approaching for Monaghan, who – under manager Séamus McEnaney's four years term in charge – have matured on many fronts: defensively, they are hard to get by; offensively, they are no longer the one-man-band that Tommy Freeman's exploits often suggested.
Yet, this will be a real examination of just where Monaghan stand in their development. Armagh are a serious side who will ask serious questions – and their march to the National League Division Two title, where they played a brand of football which was at times breath-taking, as well as the manner of their opening championship win over Derry, will ensure they take to the Casement Park turf with a spring in their steps.
This should be a close encounter. Armagh, under Paddy O’Rourke, have become more attack-minded than in the old Joe Kiernan days which has certainly suited the likes of Steven McDonnell – sent off in their All-Ireland qualifier meeting last year – while a new generation of fresh-faced players have integrated nicely.
There was a time when Armagh fine-honed for this type of game by playing challenge matches, but O’Rourke has adopted a different approach with full-on squad training matches to get players to fight for their place on the team. Still, there is only one enforced change from the side that beat Derry, with Vincent Martin – who came on for the injured James Lavery that day – retaining his place in defence and Kieran Toner replacing Lavery at midfield.
Monaghan achieved what they wanted out of the league in staying in the top flight but will want more out of this Ulster championship, as McEnaney has developed a group of players with their sights set high and who probably deserve a shot at some silverware. If they are to take that step, this is the sort of match they have to win.
MONAGHAN: S Duffy, D Mone, D Hughes, C Walshe, D Freeman, V Corey, G McQuaid, D Clerkin, JP Mone, S Gollogly, P Finlay, K Hughes, C Hanratty, C McManus, T Freeman.
In the last episode:When the two sides met in last year's first round qualifier, Monaghan advanced – but needed extra-time.
You bet: Armagh are 10/11 with Monaghan 6/5. The draw is 15/2.
On your marks: Steven McDonnell has played like a man inspired throughout Armagh's march to the Division Two title and was again on top of his game in the first round win over Derry.
Gaining ground:The Ulster Council is advising supporters travelling via the M1 to expect some delays due to major traffic works at the Sprucefield Bridge (Junction 7) and to allow at least an additional 30 minutes for their journey time to the game.
Just the ticket: Pay at the gate: Terrace: €15/£13. Open seating: €25/£21. Covered Stand: €27/£21. Under-16s free when accompanied by an adult. OAPs – Terrace: €10/£9; Open seating: €15/£13.
Crystal gazing:Both sides achieved their objectives from their league campaigns: Monaghan stayed in Division One, and Armagh won Division Two. With a win over Derry already under their belts, Armagh might have the edge.
