Teams ready for tough challenge

And as well as the senior game the Orchard County’s minor stars will be putting both their Ulster and All-Ireland crowns on the line.

In what will probably be the Match of the Day - featured live on television - Paddy O’Rourke’s team go to Celtic Park with some confidence.

After an unsteady start in the McKenna Cup and losing heavily against Down in the National League they turned things around, culminating with that division two final success against James McCartan’s team.

One of the most positive changes has been the free scoring attitude of the team, running up a big total against Donegal and with scores coming from different positions.

The stylish Steven McDonnell once again will have a major role to play but now he is receiving greater support.

Players like Clann Eireann’s Ryan Henderson, James Lavery and Brian Mallon all chipped in with scores while Wolfe Tones Finnian Moriarty wasn’t afraid to storm forward and find the net.

The only doubt is former All-Star Ronan Clarke who is recovering from injury but he may be fit enough to take a place on the bench and feature at some stage of the match.

It is the start of what could be a tough journey for the Orchard County outfit if they are to make it to the final.

A win would see them have to take on Monaghan, Cavan or Fermanagh to make the final with Tyrone probably favourites to make it out of the other half of the draw where the dark horses could be Down.

With a much changed minor line-up from last season Armagh will be looking to get off to a flying start if they are to retain their Ulster title.

Local teams are well represented in the squad under the guidance of Paul McShane, Sean Hughes and Kieran Robinson.

The minor game begins proceedings at 12 noon with the senior game throw-in at 2pm.