O'Neill returns as Armagh survive Derry's late rally

Rian O’Neill made his first appearance of the season for Armagh as they defeated Derry by 2-21 to 2-17 in their All-Ireland SFC group stage opener at the Athletic Grounds this evening.

O’Neill was a late change to the All-Ireland champions’ starting line-up, replacing captain Aidan Forker for showdown with the Oak Leafers as they raced out of the traps and ran up a 0-10 to 0-4 lead against their Ulster rivals inside the opening 20 minutes.

Paul Cassidy, Conor Glass and Shane McGuigan got points back for the visitors but an Andrew Murnin brace saw the Orchard men go in at the break with a 0-12 to 0-9 lead.

Kieran McGeeney’s side would land the first four points of the resumption before Barry McCambridge lashed in a 44th minute goal which grew the margin between the sides into double figures.

A two-point from McGuigan at the other end looked to do some damage control for Paddy Tally’s side, but the ball would be in their net again in the 52nd minute via Conor Turbitt.

Oisin Conaty and Ross McQuillan added points to the holders’ tally prior to Derry hitting a purple patch late on which saw goals from Conor Glass and Dan Higgins going in and a Paul Cassidy two-pointer then making it a five-point game with a minute remaining.

Joe McElroy responded with a point for Armagh ahead of a McGuigan two-pointer from a free at the other end leaving four between the sides at the finish.

Rian O'Neill back as Armagh beat Derry in the GAA Football All-Ireland Senior Championship Round 1 match!

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— sportsfile (@sportsfile) May 24, 2025