Mayo legends back Armagh to beat Dubs due to particular strength
Armagh survived a late comeback from Derry to win 2-21 to 2-17 in their All-Ireland round-robin clash on Saturday. The Orchard County had raced into a 13-point lead but the Oak Leafers managed to cut the advantage down to four points by full-time.
Sunday’s clash against Dublin in Croke Park will decide who tops the table heading into the last round, with the Dubs beating Galway 2-14 to 1-18 in their last outing.
Mayo icon, Lee Keegan, saw the Armagh-Derry game as a fairly rip-roaring affair, but is slightly worried about aspects of the Orchard County’s game. He feels they allowed a lot of open space in the match, and that Croke Park won’t be forgiving if they repeat this.
This open space may not be properly punished if Dublin forward Con O’Callaghan isn’t available to play according to Keegan.
He said: “Strange to say, it’s up front where Dublin might have issues in this one, especially if Con O’Callaghan hasn’t recovered from the injury incurred against Galway.
“While Armagh have been running up big tallies, the Dubs have been more modest on the scoring side of the ledger.”
With Armagh seeking to defend their All-Ireland title, their trip to Croke Park will be a real test of their credentials, but a test the former Mayo wing-back is backing them to pass.
Keegan said: “McGeeney has only managed Armagh in two competitive games against the Dubs (and one fairly hot and heavy challenge match, I believe), both of which were in the league. They’ve won the two of them.
“With their scoring power, I’d back them to make it three this weekend and take control of the group.”
The FootballJOE quiz: Were you paying attention? – episode 10
Sports Joe
