Optimism levels rise in Orchard County

FOLLOWING the magnificent and valiant Croke Park performances by Derry and Monaghan at the weekend, optimism levels must surely have risen significantly within the Orchard County.

Ulster Champions Derry were within touching distance of repeating their one and only championship success against Kerry back in 1958 but have probably only themselves to blame for the narrow 1-17 to 1-15 defeat.

They were superior in the first half and led by 3 at the break. Their shooting was out of this world, indeed had the sun fallen from the sky, the Oak Leafers would have caught it and kicked it over the bar.

Things, however, began going against them in the second period, many chances were wasted including a number of goal opportunities. With five minutes of normal time remaining and two points ahead, Derry still looked the team to join Dublin in the All-Ireland Final. But two contentious late frees awarded by Cavan referee Joe McQuillan turned the game Kerry’s way and they seized on it big time.

In the first of the All-Ireland semi-finals, our neighbours Monaghan, against all the odds, pushed a hotly fancied Dublin outfit to the pin of their collar before running out of steam in the final ten minutes.Defeated 1-17 to 0-13, the scoreline bears little resemblance to the closeness of the contest. With hindsight, how did so many people , both within the media and outside of it, completely write Monaghan off? They have been playing top league football for close on a decade and are well noted for their resilience and never-say-die approach. On the other hand, the Dubs played their football out of Division 2 last season and came through an extremely weak province to lift the Leinster crown. It was probably their dashing second half display against Mayo that prompted so many people to think that Monaghan were on a hiding to nothing.But this was far from the Monaghan psyche.

Perhaps had the Farney men put away two early goal chances and not have had a few crucial referring decisions go against them the outcome may have been different.

The wet, windy conditions possibly suited Monaghan best; they were prepared to take on their opponents right from the first bell. However, in the end Dublin’s vast experience won through. Despite the many and varied problems the Ulster side were posing, Dessie Farrell’s crew never really panicked. They were never headed and were remarkably able to respond immediately any time a Monaghan flag was raised. When It was needed most, in those closing stages, they were able to step on the gas outscoring the opposition 1-5 to 0-1.

Whilst Monaghan are deserving the highest praise and credit the history books will harshly remind them that nothing has changed. They have yet to win the Sam Maguire and their last final appearance was back in 1930.

So where does all this leave Armagh? They lost the Ulster Final to Derry and the All-Ireland quarter-final to Monaghan, both penalty shootouts. Games they should have won. It certainly raises the optimism levels within the county and strengthens the case for Kieran McGeeney to remain on as manager.

The entire Armagh panel is behind him, no player has walked away and with the long-termed injured Oisin O’Neill,back playing for Crossmaglen, the county panel can be further developed and strengthened as life begins in Division 2 next season. Hopefully the upcoming county championships will unearth some new talent. Armagh are not a Division 2 team, but returning to the top tier may be easier said than done. It’s fair to say that under McGeeney, this can be achieved in the shortage time possible, such is the undying faith and devotion his players have in him.