The final four lock horns in the Armagh SFC this weekend
We're down to the last four in the Armagh SFC, and every team will fancy their chances of winning the Gerry Fagan Cup.
Saturday October 11 (6pm)
At The Box-It Athletic Grounds: Crossmaglen Rangers v St Patrick’s Cullyhanna
Saturday sees a south Armagh showdown with fierce rivals Crossmaglen and St Patrick's Cullyhanna locking horns in a repeat of 2024's quarter-final.
Both sides have played four and won four, but Cullyhanna needed extra-time (and a comeback from seven points down) to overcome St Peter's last time out.
Aidan Nugent remains the team's dangerman, and he's notched 3-29 during the Championship so far. Jason Duffy was their stand-out in the quarter-final, as he won plenty of ball in the middle, whilst Ross McQuillan has brought his county form into the club season – his goal from 50 metres against St Peter's was a particular highlight.
For Crossmaglen, they shook off a game Carrickcruppen last time out, and they'll give every opponent headaches, with so many threatening forwards. The three O'Neill brothers, Rian, Oisin and Aaron are all adept at getting big scores, as is their cousin Cian McConville.
Cross were also boosted by a superb performance from Ronan Fitzpatrick last time out, as he grabbed 0-5, all from play.
Crossmaglen's weakness may be their defence, but they'll be boosted by the return of captain Callum Cumiskey to the line-up.
Friday October 10 (7.30pm)
At The Box-It Athletic Grounds: Madden Rapparees v Clann Eireann
In the other semi on Friday night, Madden are hoping to finally get over their last four hurdle at the third time of asking – but they face a tough test against county champions Clann Eireann.
Like Cross, Madden benefit from a number of dangermen, with Joe Sheridan, Darragh McMullen and Niall Grimleys supplementing chief scorer Conor Grimley. They’ve also boasted a mean defence since Mark Harte took over last season.
Clann Eireann have been in top form so far this season but have lost key man Barry McCambridge to injury, according to reports. They’ll lean heavily on Conor Turbitt, who has scored 2-29 this Championship, if they’re to retain their crown.