First point, just so glad we don't have to play Fermanagh again.
Second point, if lose it better be from a shoot out and not another game like I had to watch a few weeks ago.
Thirdly, this is the worst year for lack of interest and low key for Armagh in 25 years...
May the best team win
Decent prize on offer for the winner (if they can avoid a wounded Monaghan).
How we use our half forwards is key. Something we seem to struggle with and the management seem indecisive on
Quote from: illdecide on June 04, 2018, 09:12:15 AM
First point, just so glad we don't have to play Fermanagh again.
Second point, if lose it better be from a shoot out and not another game like I had to watch a few weeks ago.
Thirdly, this is the worst year for lack of interest and low key for Armagh in 25 years...
May the best team win
I've been on the board since the early 2000s. Back then this thread would have been on its third page, at least, by now. Amazing how interest and discussion varies with success (and that's not a dig at Armagh - every county is the same).
It's the same for everyone alright and while a lack of success is a factor, it's not the only factor.
Back then you could discuss the pros & cons of individual players and how they might impact the game.
Who would mark your best forward?
Who would win the most kick-outs at midfield?
Now it's just sheep in a heap, slowly moving up and down the field via an elaborate system of two yard hand-passes.
There are no individual battles any more.
What is there to talk about really?
There is a current apathy around inter-county football.
In May 2009, this board had over 20k new posts.
Last month it was less than 10K.
I miss the Leinster spite.
Shut up, Dinny.
Quote from: Jinxy on June 05, 2018, 10:41:03 AM
It's the same for everyone alright and while a lack of success is a factor, it's not the only factor.
Back then you could discuss the pros & cons of individual players and how they might impact the game.
Now it's just sheep in a heap, slowly moving up and down the field via an elaborate system of two yard hand-passes.
There are no individual battles any more.
What is there to talk about really?
Hurley stuff maybe.
Quote from: Jinxy on June 05, 2018, 10:41:03 AM
It's the same for everyone alright and while a lack of success is a factor, it's not the only factor.
Back then you could discuss the pros & cons of individual players and how they might impact the game.
Who would mark your best forward?
Who would win the most kick-outs at midfield?
Now it's just sheep in a heap, slowly moving up and down the field via an elaborate system of two yard hand-passes.
There are no individual battles any more.
What is there to talk about really?
Are you suggesting that the public in general don't really know what is going on in games now, and the pundits who's job it is to explain don't bother (perhaps because they don't really know either)? I'd agree wholeheartedly if so. You often get some decent analysis pieces during the week after games as different coaches do their columns, but in general the commentators and pundits don't seem to be putting the work in that befits their roles.
Apathy is def a factor in Armagh i would say at the minute. There was good interest in the league and even 1st round of Ulster but it's hard to get motivated as a fan for a run in the back door. Dont get me wrong, last year had many enjoyable days but the eventual thumping leaves you thinking what really is the point.
Add to that the absolutely abysmal performance the last time out and i can understand why fans dont have much to shout about.
It is hard to argue against Brolly and Spillane's pre match rant ahead of the game at the weekend.
Football has suffered from paralysis by analysis for sure. IMO it can be traced back to the 'professionalisation' of coaching and managing of teams.
I believe Clarke and Mc Conville touched on this point during the Armagh/Fermanagh match coverage, individual brilliance is now more or less lost on the modern game, as the thing has turned into a game of chess.
Quote from: Jinxy on June 05, 2018, 11:29:29 AM
Shut up, Dinny.
You pox one u20 win and now look at you. Typical Meath arogance.
WE'RE BACK, BABY!!! 8)
Quote from: Jinxy on June 05, 2018, 12:28:52 PM
WE'RE BACK, BABY!!! 8)
I'll let you know about 7:00 on Sat evening if you're back or not ;)
Was actually thinking of going to the Meath game on Sat but no confident i'd get to Mullingar for 7...Would be tight, think it's about 45 mins but match traffic would make it worse...What you reckon?
You'd get to Mullingar in plenty of time for the 2nd half.
Quote from: Dinny Breen on June 05, 2018, 11:25:11 AM
There is a current apathy around inter-county football.
In May 2009, this board had over 20k new posts.
Last month it was less than 10K.
I miss the Leinster spite.
I'd say 120% of the missing posts were from Tyrone. It was less than 12 months after their last all Ireland
Armagh posters and supporters were much more prevalent, and seem to have completely tailed off
Quote from: haranguerer on June 05, 2018, 02:55:56 PM
Armagh posters and supporters were much more prevalent, and seem to have completely tailed off
Still always log in every day to check what's happening, and still hate Tyrone
Have been here for a fair while and genuinely for first time ever am ambivalent if Armagh win or not on Saturday.
We need a change of manager .
Quote from: naka on June 05, 2018, 02:59:09 PM
Quote from: haranguerer on June 05, 2018, 02:55:56 PM
Armagh posters and supporters were much more prevalent, and seem to have completely tailed off
Still always log in every day to check what's happening, and still hate Tyrone
Have been here for a fair while and genuinely for first time ever am ambivalent if Armagh win or not on Saturday.
We need a change of manager .
We'll swap ya
Sure you only have yours a wet week
Quote from: naka on June 05, 2018, 02:59:09 PM
Quote from: haranguerer on June 05, 2018, 02:55:56 PM
Armagh posters and supporters were much more prevalent, and seem to have completely tailed off
Still always log in every day to check what's happening, and still hate Tyrone
Have been here for a fair while and genuinely for first time ever am ambivalent if Armagh win or not on Saturday.
We need a change of manager .
+1
Nearly prefer a quick kill than to linger on for a few more games.
It's the whole situation of poor football, over programmed players and the more creative ones gone. Playing with flair and attacking the opposition even if we were beaten wouldn't seem so bad.
We have slipped into the doldrums again, not quite as bad as pre 75 more like pre 99 but like the recession of 2008 and the following years of austerity, the decline seems to have gone on for ever and difficult to see any light at the end of the tunnel.
We need a new messiah, a new Gerry O'Neill, a new version of the 2 Brian's as John the Baptists for a new Joe Kernan to breathe life into Armagh football and bring the best players to the field. McGeeney is turning out to be like Paddy Mo in charge but less laid back. It has been depressing to have a series of poor managers after Big Joe stayed on too long and no succession plan was in place as the great team ebbed away.
The closer the game gets the more excited I will get. It overly enthused about going to Mullingar for the third time in a year tho
We did have a succession plan. It wasn't executed and was then later exposed as being a poorly conceived plan in any event.
Kernan was replaced by a good man (loyal to a fault). His link to a successful U21 team that supplied the succession plan of the playing panel made his appointment logical. Ultimately he was exposed by a declining team and was got rid off.
He was replaced by a man of limited ability. Again a decent man and a very good man manager but tactically limited. Somehow he got us promoted to Division 1 and we hung on there for 2 seasons but ultimately relegation from Division 1, annihation by Derry in an Ulster semi final and a second half implosion against a poor Roscommon team left his position untenable and an honourable man did the honourable thing.
Thereafter we have witnessed the original succession plan and a continuity. Unfortunately that continuity has been continuous decline. Well not quite continuous. We have reached 2 AI quarter finals. Whether they were flukes or not to judge but there certainly is no evidence that they were part of some upward curve.
Under Paul Grimley we barely hung on in the division we were relegated into and were relegated again the following season. The league campaigns under McGeeney have been atrocious. There were games in Division 1 were we could only name 7 defenders in the panel and one of them was a kid. What would have happened the succession plan of Grimley and McGeeney if they had of been exposed to the rigours of Division 1 I shudder to think.
Our playing resources have depleted since say 2005. A systematic review might reverse that. But our management have not maximised the returns from our playing resources. That conclusion in unavoidable.
When we are neither winning nor interesting to watch the crowd will fall away.
Quote from: illdecide on June 05, 2018, 01:24:32 PM
Was actually thinking of going to the Meath game on Sat but no confident i'd get to Mullingar for 7...Would be tight, think it's about 45 mins but match traffic would make it worse...What you reckon?
Traffic never an issue in mullingar
Park your car at St Finians school or Tesco and walk in. It's about 10 mins
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
Quote from: DuffleKing on June 05, 2018, 05:35:25 PM
Sure you only have yours a wet week
Long enough
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on June 06, 2018, 08:10:20 AM
Quote from: illdecide on June 05, 2018, 01:24:32 PM
Was actually thinking of going to the Meath game on Sat but no confident i'd get to Mullingar for 7...Would be tight, think it's about 45 mins but match traffic would make it worse...What you reckon?
Traffic never an issue in mullingar
Park your car at St Finians school or Tesco and walk in. It's about 10 mins
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
Or leave it in Springfield and be there in 2 minutes.
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on June 06, 2018, 08:10:20 AM
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
That's just silly talk and needs to be nipped in the bud. I was at the match last year and there was no animosity between the fans at all where I sat. Sure there was the incident in the stand but it was isolated. There was a very large Armagh support who got frustrated with some very poor refereeing during the game. Their backs were up immediately due to Jamie getting black carded early doors ( a decision that turned out to be correct (one of the few on the night)). The frustration towards the ref went over the top at times but very few words were aimed at the Westmeath players or supporters. That's why it was a surprise the Westmeath county board official had a pop at the Armagh fans later in the year.
Something tells me that there will not be the same level of passionate support on Saturday evening because of the level of apathy that's creeping in among Armagh supporters at the minute. Both teams appear to be weaker than they were last year.
Quote from: mackers on June 06, 2018, 10:26:03 AM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on June 06, 2018, 08:10:20 AM
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
That's just silly talk and needs to be nipped in the bud. I was at the match last year and there was no animosity between the fans at all where I sat. Sure there was the incident in the stand but it was isolated. There was a very large Armagh support who got frustrated with some very poor refereeing during the game. Their backs were up immediately due to Jamie getting black carded early doors ( a decision that turned out to be correct (one of the few on the night)). The frustration towards the ref went over the top at times but very few words were aimed at the Westmeath players or supporters. That's why it was a surprise the Westmeath county board official had a pop at the Armagh fans later in the year.
Something tells me that there will not be the same level of passionate support on Saturday evening because of the level of apathy that's creeping in among Armagh supporters at the minute. Both teams appear to be weaker than they were last year.
I concur...
Quote from: mackers on June 06, 2018, 10:26:03 AM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on June 06, 2018, 08:10:20 AM
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
That's just silly talk and needs to be nipped in the bud. I was at the match last year and there was no animosity between the fans at all where I sat. Sure there was the incident in the stand but it was isolated. There was a very large Armagh support who got frustrated with some very poor refereeing during the game. Their backs were up immediately due to Jamie getting black carded early doors ( a decision that turned out to be correct (one of the few on the night)). The frustration towards the ref went over the top at times but very few words were aimed at the Westmeath players or supporters. That's why it was a surprise the Westmeath county board official had a pop at the Armagh fans later in the year.
Something tells me that there will not be the same level of passionate support on Saturday evening because of the level of apathy that's creeping in among Armagh supporters at the minute. Both teams appear to be weaker than they were last year.
Sad but in this weather a few hours in the golf course is more appealing than an evening watching football in Mullingar.
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on June 06, 2018, 08:10:20 AM
Quote from: illdecide on June 05, 2018, 01:24:32 PM
Was actually thinking of going to the Meath game on Sat but no confident i'd get to Mullingar for 7...Would be tight, think it's about 45 mins but match traffic would make it worse...What you reckon?
Traffic never an issue in mullingar
Park your car at St Finians school or Tesco and walk in. It's about 10 mins
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
Why? What happened at the league match?
Quote from: mackers on June 06, 2018, 10:26:03 AM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on June 06, 2018, 08:10:20 AM
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
That's just silly talk and needs to be nipped in the bud. I was at the match last year and there was no animosity between the fans at all where I sat. Sure there was the incident in the stand but it was isolated. There was a very large Armagh support who got frustrated with some very poor refereeing during the game. Their backs were up immediately due to Jamie getting black carded early doors ( a decision that turned out to be correct (one of the few on the night)). The frustration towards the ref went over the top at times but very few words were aimed at the Westmeath players or supporters. That's why it was a surprise the Westmeath county board official had a pop at the Armagh fans later in the year.
Something tells me that there will not be the same level of passionate support on Saturday evening because of the level of apathy that's creeping in among Armagh supporters at the minute. Both teams appear to be weaker than they were last year.
Speaking to fans from both counties during the week there seems to be a tiny but real reference to last years game and events in the stands. We have got to move on from that sort of thing. Reading on the Armagh forum in recent days I notice 2 worrying themes. Firstly there is this idea that Armagh fans should nip in and out of Mullingar without contributing a cent to the Mullingar economy. I know some of this is a poor attempt at jest but why post this shite at all?? We need to move on.
Secondly I now read of the referee being described as a "person of unmarried parents". Really?? Are we not better than that?? If we are to behave like such infants I think we would be better staying at home and listening to the radio.
I would encourage our fans to travel, to spend as their pocket dictates, to enjoy themselves, to make friends, to behave, to enjoy the spectacle and if the performance of either team or the officials comes short to let them know - but after, not before
Quote from: smelmoth on June 06, 2018, 10:50:49 PM
Quote from: mackers on June 06, 2018, 10:26:03 AM
Quote from: manfromdelmonte on June 06, 2018, 08:10:20 AM
Westmeath people are looking forward to 'welcoming' Armagh after the last game in Cusack park
That's just silly talk and needs to be nipped in the bud. I was at the match last year and there was no animosity between the fans at all where I sat. Sure there was the incident in the stand but it was isolated. There was a very large Armagh support who got frustrated with some very poor refereeing during the game. Their backs were up immediately due to Jamie getting black carded early doors ( a decision that turned out to be correct (one of the few on the night)). The frustration towards the ref went over the top at times but very few words were aimed at the Westmeath players or supporters. That's why it was a surprise the Westmeath county board official had a pop at the Armagh fans later in the year.
Something tells me that there will not be the same level of passionate support on Saturday evening because of the level of apathy that's creeping in among Armagh supporters at the minute. Both teams appear to be weaker than they were last year.
Speaking to fans from both counties during the week there seems to be a tiny but real reference to last years game and events in the stands. We have got to move on from that sort of thing. Reading on the Armagh forum in recent days I notice 2 worrying themes. Firstly there is this idea that Armagh fans should nip in and out of Mullingar without contributing a cent to the Mullingar economy. I know some of this is a poor attempt at jest but why post this shite at all?? We need to move on.
Secondly I now read of the referee being described as a "person of unmarried parents". Really?? Are we not better than that?? If we are to behave like such infants I think we would be better staying at home and listening to the radio.
I would encourage our fans to travel, to spend as their pocket dictates, to enjoy themselves, to make friends, to behave, to enjoy the spectacle and if the performance of either team or the officials comes short to let them know - but after, not before
If you have been reading the Armagh forum long enough you will understand that the person mentioning the referee is a bit of a joker. You may not appreciate it but I would suggest he was trying to be funny and by phrasing it here as you have you are only stirring the pot.
I'm aware that these are attempts at humour. Poor as they are they are repeated each time. As soon as the referee is named he is derided. I simply ask that we wait until he delivers a performance worth deriding before starting this sort of shite.
Who was the ref?
Quote from: Farrandeelin on June 07, 2018, 08:47:05 AM
Who was the ref?
The ref last year was O'Sullivan from Kerry who was very poor. I think I read somewhere that Gough is refereeing this week's match. He's the best in the business IMO and there should be no such issues this year.
Yeah it's Gough this time.
My point is that it doesn't matter who it is we get the same pre-match drivel each time. It feeds into this mantra that the world is against us. The referee is against us, the fates are against us and that there is some imagined edge between the 2 sides or 2 sets of supporters.
Gough as a ref is not without fault or controversy but he remains one of the best. Let him do his job and judge him afterwards. If he pulls us up for poor tackling or mouthing at his decisions it will the continuance of a theme but that theme will have nothing to do with Gough, his performance, his parentage or an agenda against Armagh
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 11:23:42 AM
Yeah it's Gough this time.
My point is that it doesn't matter who it is we get the same pre-match drivel each time. It feeds into this mantra that the world is against us. The referee is against us, the fates are against us and that there is some imagined edge between the 2 sides or 2 sets of supporters.
Gough as a ref is not without fault or controversy but he remains one of the best. Let him do his job and judge him afterwards. If he pulls us up for poor tackling or mouthing at his decisions it will the continuance of a theme but that theme will have nothing to do with Gough, his performance, his parentage or an agenda against Armagh
Well said. Couldn't agree more.
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 11:23:42 AM
Yeah it's Gough this time.
My point is that it doesn't matter who it is we get the same pre-match drivel each time. It feeds into this mantra that the world is against us. The referee is against us, the fates are against us and that there is some imagined edge between the 2 sides or 2 sets of supporters.
I wouldn't be reading too much into what a couple of eejits on the Armagh forum say. Some of them have in house jokes about the standard of soup at the Athletic Grounds and the away venues that Armagh visit FFS.
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 11:23:42 AM
Yeah it's Gough this time.
My point is that it doesn't matter who it is we get the same pre-match drivel each time. It feeds into this mantra that the world is against us. The referee is against us, the fates are against us and that there is some imagined edge between the 2 sides or 2 sets of supporters.
Gough as a ref is not without fault or controversy but he remains one of the best. Let him do his job and judge him afterwards. If he pulls us up for poor tackling or mouthing at his decisions it will the continuance of a theme but that theme will have nothing to do with Gough, his performance, his parentage or an agenda against Armagh
To reiterate what others have said, the humour over on the forum - although not my cup of tae - for the most part is relatively harmless and not to be taken too seriously.
The only possible explanation that I can think of for you giving it so much weight is that you think the humour might in some way be made as an excuse to avoid pinning the blame on Geezer if things go pear shaped. A closer look at the discussion since the Fermanagh debacle will show that the criticism of Geezer will be unrelenting, regardless of how the ref does or how the opposing supporters get on.
Quote from: Rufus T Firefly on June 07, 2018, 02:29:11 PM
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 11:23:42 AM
Yeah it's Gough this time.
My point is that it doesn't matter who it is we get the same pre-match drivel each time. It feeds into this mantra that the world is against us. The referee is against us, the fates are against us and that there is some imagined edge between the 2 sides or 2 sets of supporters.
Gough as a ref is not without fault or controversy but he remains one of the best. Let him do his job and judge him afterwards. If he pulls us up for poor tackling or mouthing at his decisions it will the continuance of a theme but that theme will have nothing to do with Gough, his performance, his parentage or an agenda against Armagh
To reiterate what others have said, the humour over on the forum - although not my cup of tae - for the most part is relatively harmless and not to be taken too seriously.
The only possible explanation that I can think of for you giving it so much weight is that you think the humour might in some way be made as an excuse to avoid pinning the blame on Geezer if things go pear shaped. A closer look at the discussion since the Fermanagh debacle will show that the criticism of Geezer will be unrelenting, regardless of how the ref does or how the opposing supporters get on.
What do you mean by a closer look.
I'd be very certain that the criticism of Geezer will be intense. I draw no connection between that and the drivel that is posted on the forum. But don't let that stop you.
I'm only too aware that use of deflection arguments can be diversionary themselves. As I travelled to the Tyrone vs Monaghan match I listened to the pre match thoughts of Enda McGinley. He then gave a caustic but accurate review of our performance vs Fermanagh. In his paper column he then repeated his views. On the Armaghforum his views are discounted as a deflection away from Tyrone's own defeat. Given he originally gave these views before Tyrone's defeat I would attach little weight to that line of thought. On the Armagh forum we dismiss external criticism instead of thinking about what there might be to learn.
It's not the dumb jokes that are annoying but the absence of any proper debate
So if we're debating K McG's reign then how do you start?
Have we made progress over the last 4 years? No
Are the best players in Armagh playing for the County? No - Why not?
Are we under achieving? Yes
Are we being too unrealistic? No
Would another manager do a better job with the same players? Who knows?
Does K McG get a rough ride? Probably
Is K McG under pressure? Yes
If we win 2-3 matches in the qualifiers will the fans think everything is ok? Majority probably will
Is there a divide between Crossmaglen and K McG? Looks like it
Fire away with any other question you want to debate.
If Geezer was removed / walks,, who we think would step up next? One of the Macs? Oisin?
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 03:25:09 PM
the drivel that is posted on the forum.
On the Armaghforum.....views are discounted as a deflection away from Tyrone's own defeat.
On the Armagh forum we dismiss external criticism instead of thinking about what there might be to learn.
It's not the dumb jokes that are annoying but the absence of any proper debate
The Armagh Forum is as it has always been - I see little difference between what goes on now and what happened when we were with Armaghgaa.net. I can't believe that you choose to dismiss what is being discussed there on the one hand - drivel and lack of proper debate - and then on the other flag it as a serious issue for consideration ahead of the game.
Make up your mind.
Quote from: our_fella on June 07, 2018, 03:49:03 PM
If Geezer was removed / walks,, who we think would step up next? One of the Macs? Oisin?
Who knows but please let it be based upon their managerial/coaching record
Quote from: Rufus T Firefly on June 07, 2018, 04:17:06 PM
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 03:25:09 PM
the drivel that is posted on the forum.
On the Armaghforum.....views are discounted as a deflection away from Tyrone's own defeat.
On the Armagh forum we dismiss external criticism instead of thinking about what there might be to learn.
It's not the dumb jokes that are annoying but the absence of any proper debate
The Armagh Forum is as it has always been - I see little difference between what goes on now and what happened when we were with Armaghgaa.net. I can't believe that you choose to dismiss what is being discussed there on the one hand - drivel and lack of proper debate - and then on the other flag it as a serious issue for consideration ahead of the game.
Make up your mind.
Again I haven't mentioned or alluded to any difference in the current and previous armagh fan's forum. Don't let that stop you imagining what it is I'm thinking and reacting to your own imagination. Your reasons are your own I suppose.
I point out that there is a lot of drivel on there. If you disagree with that just say and I will post the examples that back my case.
Separately I point out that some of the content focusses on imagined slights, campaigns, wars, prejudices, vendettas, persecutions etc. Again disagree if you will.
I contend that focussing on these imagined issues can be unhelpful. Disagree if you will?
I have made up my mind on what I've seen. Post something different and I might change my mind. That is how these things work I guess?
Or you could imagine my thoughts and post them?
Why don't you sign up and contribute on that forum instead of talking about it here
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 07:04:36 PM
Again I haven't mentioned or alluded to any difference in the current and previous armagh fan's forum. Don't let that stop you imagining what it is I'm thinking and reacting to your own imagination. Your reasons are your own I suppose.
I point out that there is a lot of drivel on there. If you disagree with that just say and I will post the examples that back my case.
Separately I point out that some of the content focusses on imagined slights, campaigns, wars, prejudices, vendettas, persecutions etc. Again disagree if you will.
I contend that focussing on these imagined issues can be unhelpful. Disagree if you will?
I have made up my mind on what I've seen. Post something different and I might change my mind. That is how these things work I guess?
Or you could imagine my thoughts and post them?
I contend that your two separate points are very much related. Content focusing on imagined slights, campaigns, wars, prejudices, vendettas, persecutions etc. could be considered by some of the less charitable amongst us to be 'drivel'. Others may refer to it as humour, albeit not that particularly funny. I reckon at least three of us have pointed that 'humour' aspect out, on this thread.
Either way, it's not to be taken too seriously. I guess that's how I see it working!
And to clarify, I linked it to McGeeney because it was the only plausible reason I could fathom for you raising such an issue on this thread. Happy to accept that I'm wrong, if now that I'm totally baffled at your line of reasoning.
Quote from: Owen Brannigan on June 05, 2018, 08:35:02 PM
We have slipped into the doldrums again, not quite as bad as pre 75 more like pre 99 but like the recession of 2008 and the following years of austerity, the decline seems to have gone on for ever and difficult to see any light at the end of the tunnel.
We'll have to go some to be as bad as pre 1975. Wasn't it the Indo that listed all the football teams in Ireland in order of merit and we were second last, just above Wexford. I've said it elsewhere, but I always felt our team between 1982 and 1999 always had the ability to deliver one very big punch, on any given day - Dublin in the League quarter-final on Easter Sunday, 1994 was an example - but there was no consistency that would have brought silverware - therefore we lost three NFL Finals and three Ulster Finals. I could not see this team delivering a blow like that to a top team.
Quote from: Owen Brannigan on June 05, 2018, 08:35:02 PM
We need a new messiah, a new Gerry O'Neill, a new version of the 2 Brian's as John the Baptists for a new Joe Kernan to breathe life into Armagh football and bring the best players to the field. McGeeney is turning out to be like Paddy Mo in charge but less laid back. It has been depressing to have a series of poor managers after Big Joe stayed on too long and no succession plan was in place as the great team ebbed away.
Always felt that Paddy Mo was very unlucky, in that in his three Championship campaigns, he lost by a single point to the eventual Ulster Champions (1989, 1990 and 1991) and the All Ireland Champions (1991).
Joe did indeed stay on too long and then our old issue of petty jealousies and vendettas was allowed to hold sway and thus deny what would have been the dream ticket at that time of a Paul Grimley / Geezer management team.
Others will no doubt come in and point to their subsequent records as undermining totally the notion of a dream ticket, but their presence in 2008 would have retained the great 'all for one' culture that had taken us to the heights in 2002 and in my opinion would have harnessed effectively the resources of our 2004 All Ireland Under 21 Winning Team.
Has the team been named yet?
Irish News has plenty about Westmeath in today's paper but not much about Armagh ???
Quote from: illdecide on June 08, 2018, 10:25:01 AM
Has the team been named yet?
Irish News has plenty about Westmeath in today's paper but not much about Armagh ???
is that Armagh TV covering match ?
Quote from: maddog on June 08, 2018, 10:55:08 AM
Quote from: illdecide on June 08, 2018, 10:25:01 AM
Has the team been named yet?
Irish News has plenty about Westmeath in today's paper but not much about Armagh ???
is that Armagh TV covering match ?
No...They're not allowed to show Championship or League games due to TV rights...Radio or Mullingar
Quote from: Rufus T Firefly on June 07, 2018, 11:17:02 PM
Quote from: Owen Brannigan on June 05, 2018, 08:35:02 PM
We have slipped into the doldrums again, not quite as bad as pre 75 more like pre 99 but like the recession of 2008 and the following years of austerity, the decline seems to have gone on for ever and difficult to see any light at the end of the tunnel.
We'll have to go some to be as bad as pre 1975. Wasn't it the Indo that listed all the football teams in Ireland in order of merit and we were second last, just above Wexford. I've said it elsewhere, but I always felt our team between 1982 and 1999 always had the ability to deliver one very big punch, on any given day - Dublin in the League quarter-final on Easter Sunday, 1994 was an example - but there was no consistency that would have brought silverware - therefore we lost three NFL Finals and three Ulster Finals. I could not see this team delivering a blow like that to a top team.
Quote from: Owen Brannigan on June 05, 2018, 08:35:02 PM
We need a new messiah, a new Gerry O'Neill, a new version of the 2 Brian's as John the Baptists for a new Joe Kernan to breathe life into Armagh football and bring the best players to the field. McGeeney is turning out to be like Paddy Mo in charge but less laid back. It has been depressing to have a series of poor managers after Big Joe stayed on too long and no succession plan was in place as the great team ebbed away.
Always felt that Paddy Mo was very unlucky, in that in his three Championship campaigns, he lost by a single point to the eventual Ulster Champions (1989, 1990 and 1991) and the All Ireland Champions (1991).
Joe did indeed stay on too long and then our old issue of petty jealousies and vendettas was allowed to hold sway and thus deny what would have been the dream ticket at that time of a Paul Grimley / Geezer management team.
Others will no doubt come in and point to their subsequent records as undermining totally the notion of a dream ticket, but their presence in 2008 would have retained the great 'all for one' culture that had taken us to the heights in 2002 and in my opinion would have harnessed effectively the resources of our 2004 All Ireland Under 21 Winning Team.
It's the mediocre years that make the winning, when it eventually comes along, so worthwhile.
Quote from: illdecide on June 08, 2018, 10:25:01 AM
Has the team been named yet?
Irish News has plenty about Westmeath in today's paper but not much about Armagh ???
What are ye saying about us up there? Plenty to say about where it's all gone wrong this year alright...
Quote from: Croí na hÉireann on June 08, 2018, 11:19:28 AM
Quote from: illdecide on June 08, 2018, 10:25:01 AM
Has the team been named yet?
Irish News has plenty about Westmeath in today's paper but not much about Armagh ???
What are ye saying about us up there? Plenty to say about where it's all gone wrong this year alright...
Last year's feisty affair will have no bearing on Armagh clash says Westmeath boss Colin Kelly
Westmeath boss Colin Kelly, formerly of Louth, says Armagh will be a tough nut to crack in Mullingar
BRENDAN CROSSAN
08 June, 2018 01:00
Topics
All-Ireland SFC Qualifiers Armagh Colin Kelly Westmeath
Kieran McGeeney will be hoping for a similar outcome as last year's All-Ireland Qualifier win over Westmeath
WESTMEATH manager Colin Kelly insists last summer's feisty All-Ireland Qualifier affair with Armagh will have no bearing on tomorrow night's sequel in Mullingar – and says his squad currently resembles a "casualty ward".
Westmeath and Armagh will both try to pick up the pieces via the back door after hugely disappointing provincial defeats to Laois and Fermanagh, respectively.
In last season's Round Two clash, Westmeath paid the ultimate price for some woeful finishing in the closing stages as the Orchard men went on to reach the All-Ireland quarter-finals.
Westmeath's five-point defeat last July proved Tom Cribben's last game in charge, with Kelly taking the reins in 2018 after guiding Louth to back-to-back NFL promotions.
Twelve of the Westmeath side that suffered a 10-point hammering to Laois less than a fortnight ago were part of last year's panel.
Tempers were frayed from the early stages of last July's Qualifier with Jamie Clarke and James Morgan black-carded for Armagh in the while defender Gregory McCabe was sent off in the 54th minute.
And there was some tension between a small section of opposing fans in the main stand in Cusack Park as last year's game reached a climax.
Noel Mulligan, John Heslin, Frank Boyle, James Dolan and Killian Daly all missed gilt-edged chances to put Armagh away while Blaine Hughes made a fantastic save to deny Heslin a 53rd minute goal.
"History can't affect the result on Saturday night – I'd be a firm believer in that," said Kelly, who also watched his side lose to Armagh in Division Three in February.
"What we've done in the past can't shape the future. Both teams will prepare as best they can and we'll put our best foot forward on Saturday, give it a lash and see where we end up."
Jamie Gnoud, Sam Duncan, Mark McCallion, John Egan, Ger Egan, Alan Stone, Noel Mulligan, Kieran Martin, Callum McCormack, Stephen Gallagher, John Heslin and Bidou Sayeh featured against Armagh last summer and were part of this year's panel that suffered a 4-13 to 1-12 defeat to a resurgent Laois in Tullamore on May 26.
Kelly's men were undone by Paul Kingston who hit three second-half goals to puncture Westmeath's Leinster challenge.
"We've had to pick ourselves up. There was a lot of soul-searching and looking at ourselves and trying to pick up the pieces. It's as simple as that really," said Kelly.
The new Westmeath boss would probably have liked an extra couple of weeks to prepare for the All-Ireland Qualifiers, given the list of injuries the squad has had to absorb.
"The two-week turnaround is good if you've a fit squad. It's well documented in Westmeath, with guys not available and injuries - it's like a casualty ward in the local hospital, to be honest.
"But the boys are working as hard as they can. There was severe disappointment over the result against Laois because there was an expectation and it will probably take more time to pick up the pieces. But we have to and that's where we're at.
"Our physio and doc have been in over-drive between various injuries. We had to take three lads out of the Laois game with injuries..."
Armagh midfielder Ben Crealey ruled out of Westmeath clash
Ben Crealey has been ruled out of tomorrow evening's round one Qualifier in Mullingar
Andy Watters
08 June, 2018 01:00
Topics
Armagh Ben Crealey Kieran McGeeney Niall Grimley Stephen Sheridan Westmeath
Stephen Sheridan could return for tomorrow's clash with Westmeath
ARMAGH midfielder Ben Crealey has been ruled out of tomorrow evening's All-Ireland Qualifier against Westmeath in Mullingar.
The Maghery clubman – who started at wing half-forward in the Orchardmen's Ulster Championship quarter-final loss to Fermanagh – had been in contention to return to centrefield for the must-win clash at Cusack Park.
But The Irish News has learned that he could now be out for up to six weeks after pulling his hamstring just days after the Queen's University Sigerson Cup star had broken his thumb in training.
It is understood that Crealey had been prepared to play through the pain of that injury, but the hamstring tear means his season could be over unless Armagh put together another prolonged run in the Qualifiers.
Crealey's absence has exacerbated the loss of Madden's Niall Grimley, who partnered Charlie Vernon in midfield against the Ernemen, but was red-carded early in the second half for striking out at Seamus Quigley.
With Crealey injured and Grimley suspended, fit-again Stephen Sheridan is expected to return to the side to partner Charlie Vernon in midfield which will be a crucial area tomorrow given the undoubted quality of Westmeath's John Heslin.
Meanwhile, former Armagh manager Paul Grimley, has called for the Armagh fans to rally around manager Kieran McGeeney and his players ahead of tomorrow's crucial game.
Last year's the Orchardmen produced a strong finish to beat the midlanders in round two of the Qualifiers and Grimley – who handed over the reins to McGeeney after the 2014 season – expects them to rediscover the form and confidence that deserted them in the lacklustre loss in Brewster Park three weeks' ago.
"You expect to feel the wrath when the team disappoints and there'll be nobody more disappointed than Kieran, the management team and the players," said Grimley, part of the management team for Armagh's All-Ireland title in 2002.
"But the disappointment has to be kept in check because in Armagh we have all sorts of innuendos about why players don't want to play for the county.
"If players don't want to play for the county, for whatever reason, that's their choice, they're allowed to do it, and what you've got to do as a manager is get up and get on with it and that's what McGeeney has done.
"He has scouted the county, he has taken in a lot of new players and the supporters would need to realise that and get behind him.
"There isn't a better management team in Armagh at present.
"A lot of names have been floated about Kieran is in there, he's doing the job, the players have total respect for him and are totally behind him.
"Everybody else needs to get behind him.
"Whatever issues exist, people should stand up and solve them. Clubs in Armagh can't go sniping behind the manager's back – if they have something to say, the place to say it is at county board meetings.
"If they request the manager to be present, I have no Kieran would be more than willing to meet them. Face-to-face these problems can be taken care off."
Thanks illdecide, augers well when the hand wringing starts before the match. Heslin won't be playing, can't even train.
(https://westmeathgaa.ie/cd/uploads/2018/06/WhatsApp-Image-2018-06-07-at-15.52.19-e1528448589895.jpeg)
Quote from: illdecide on June 08, 2018, 11:14:24 AM
Quote from: maddog on June 08, 2018, 10:55:08 AM
Quote from: illdecide on June 08, 2018, 10:25:01 AM
Has the team been named yet?
Irish News has plenty about Westmeath in today's paper but not much about Armagh ???
is that Armagh TV covering match ?
No...They're not allowed to show Championship or League games due to TV rights...Radio or Mullingar
Mullingar not gonna work from Brum this weekend. But
if we are still in the draw come Monday then always next week.
Quote from: Croí na hÉireann on June 08, 2018, 11:36:07 AM
Thanks illdecide, augers well when the hand wringing starts before the match. Heslin won't be playing, can't even train.
(https://westmeathgaa.ie/cd/uploads/2018/06/WhatsApp-Image-2018-06-07-at-15.52.19-e1528448589895.jpeg)
Just looking at that photo reminds me of when I was a kid and Westmeath were the epitome of uselessness. You wouldn't know the names of any players. Getting beaten by 25 points was normal. It was almost like rhey werent a GAA county. Things have thankfully moved on. That day they beat Meath was pure class.
Had big doubts before however with no Heslin for Westmeath I'm quietly confident Armagh will win this game now.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 08, 2018, 12:36:10 PM
Had big doubts before however with no Heslin for Westmeath I'm quietly confident Armagh will win this game now.
If Heslin really isn't capable of playing then no doubt then a player of his calibre will be missed. But I think a star player can very often be nullified by double marking or specific tactics. Westmeath are missing a host of players and this will inhibit them more.
You could same the same about us and Clarke or Campbell. I'm not arguing that they are not missed but it is accumulated talent that is missing that weakens a side rather than the individual star.
I think we can and will win this comfortably. There are armagh fans who would rather have a quick and painless death rather than a slow march to an annihilation in the super 8s or by a division 1 team before the super 8s. I disagree. We need games. We need to improve. I would hope to get through this and avoid Monaghan. We need to build a game plan and confidence in that game plan
Quote from: Rufus T Firefly on June 07, 2018, 10:47:50 PM
Quote from: smelmoth on June 07, 2018, 07:04:36 PM
Again I haven't mentioned or alluded to any difference in the current and previous armagh fan's forum. Don't let that stop you imagining what it is I'm thinking and reacting to your own imagination. Your reasons are your own I suppose.
I point out that there is a lot of drivel on there. If you disagree with that just say and I will post the examples that back my case.
Separately I point out that some of the content focusses on imagined slights, campaigns, wars, prejudices, vendettas, persecutions etc. Again disagree if you will.
I contend that focussing on these imagined issues can be unhelpful. Disagree if you will?
I have made up my mind on what I've seen. Post something different and I might change my mind. That is how these things work I guess?
Or you could imagine my thoughts and post them?
I contend that your two separate points are very much related. Content focusing on imagined slights, campaigns, wars, prejudices, vendettas, persecutions etc. could be considered by some of the less charitable amongst us to be 'drivel'. Others may refer to it as humour, albeit not that particularly funny. I reckon at least three of us have pointed that 'humour' aspect out, on this thread.
Either way, it's not to be taken too seriously. I guess that's how I see it working!
And to clarify, I linked it to McGeeney because it was the only plausible reason I could fathom for you raising such an issue on this thread. Happy to accept that I'm wrong, if now that I'm totally baffled at your line of reasoning.
Chill.
contend what you like. Your evidence seems to be your own inability to think of an alternative. Imaginative style but somewhat less that convincing.
Re-read the thread. The first poster to link the "drivel" to "humour" is me. Surely you noticed that?
I point out some nonsense on another forum. I'm still not sure why you have a problem with that?
Quote from: tonto1888 on June 07, 2018, 10:42:08 PM
Why don't you sign up and contribute on that forum instead of talking about it here
That is a fairer point.
The quality of debate is better here. Most of my debate over the years has been on the non GAA section. I'm an infrequent poster. The little time I spent on here I focussed on pointing out the poison of one particular poster who has now (in my view wrongly) been banned permanently. I always enjoyed that debate and fired out some thoughts here on nonsense posted elsewhere. It's hardly a big deal. Or so I thought
Quote from: smelmoth on June 08, 2018, 08:46:56 PM
Chill. contend what you like. Your evidence seems to be your own inability to think of an alternative. Imaginative style but somewhat less that convincing.
Re-read the thread. The first poster to link the "drivel" to "humour" is me. Surely you noticed that?
I point out some nonsense on another forum. I'm still not sure why you have a problem with that?
Please try and keep up. Please.
You did indeed link the drivel, or as you also called it 'shite', to the humour. I have been trying to emphasise that it is nothing to get worked up about. Why say that to you? Well, because you said,
Quote from: smelmoth on June 06, 2018, 10:50:49 PM
Reading on the Armagh forum in recent days I notice 2 worrying themes.
That has been my underlying point - it is HUMOUR - it is not to be taken too seriously!! It is not in the least bit worrying.
Take the time to reflect on it, and hopefully in doing so you will see the irony of asking someone to chill, whilst you yourself get worked up on something so innocent.
By all means have the last word on the matter - I sense from your vaguely familiar debating technique that you will not go quietly.
Quote from: seafoid on June 08, 2018, 11:16:21 AM
It's the mediocre years that make the winning, when it eventually comes along, so worthwhile.
100%. Our low point, since the dark days of the late sixties and early seventies, was probably our utter capitulation to Derry in the Athletic Grounds in 1995. An All Ireland Senior Title within seven years would have seemed inconceivable at that time.
Quote from: smelmoth on June 08, 2018, 08:52:25 PM
Quote from: tonto1888 on June 07, 2018, 10:42:08 PM
Why don't you sign up and contribute on that forum instead of talking about it here
That is a fairer point.
The quality of debate is better here. Most of my debate over the years has been on the non GAA section. I'm an infrequent poster. The little time I spent on here I focussed on pointing out the poison of one particular poster who has now (in my view wrongly) been banned permanently. I always enjoyed that debate and fired out some thoughts here on nonsense posted elsewhere. It's hardly a big deal. Or so I thought
I enjoy your posts. I don't always agree with them mind you. I think you'd be better placed commenting there than complaining here tho
Armagh Team as named officially:
(https://i.imgur.com/8QRlxkL.jpg?1)
Quote from: Owen Brannigan on June 08, 2018, 11:40:23 PM
Armagh Team as named officially:
(https://i.imgur.com/8QRlxkL.jpg?1)
Ohh boy... Not overly happy with that but I suppose we have to give them a chance. TBH I don't care who WM have missing because their replacements don't have to be very good.. 50/50
Quote from: Croí na hÉireann on June 08, 2018, 11:36:07 AM
Thanks illdecide, augers well when the hand wringing starts before the match. Heslin won't be playing, can't even train.
(https://westmeathgaa.ie/cd/uploads/2018/06/WhatsApp-Image-2018-06-07-at-15.52.19-e1528448589895.jpeg)
Who's Boidu Sayeh or what's his heritage? Good to see some new blood in the GAA
Quote from: macdanger2 on June 09, 2018, 12:35:12 AM
Quote from: Croí na hÉireann on June 08, 2018, 11:36:07 AM
Thanks illdecide, augers well when the hand wringing starts before the match. Heslin won't be playing, can't even train.
(https://westmeathgaa.ie/cd/uploads/2018/06/WhatsApp-Image-2018-06-07-at-15.52.19-e1528448589895.jpeg)
Who's Boidu Sayeh or what's his heritage? Good to see some new blood in the GAA
He played in the league game, back willing to go forward.
Quote from: Rufus T Firefly on June 08, 2018, 10:31:04 PM
Quote from: seafoid on June 08, 2018, 11:16:21 AM
It's the mediocre years that make the winning, when it eventually comes along, so worthwhile.
100%. Our low point, since the dark days of the late sixties and early seventies, was probably our utter capitulation to Derry in the Athletic Grounds in 1995. An All Ireland Senior Title within seven years would have seemed inconceivable at that time.
Also , having people in the county with celtic crosses will make a difference the next time a good team emerges.
Driving past a house in your own county where someone won an All Ireland is really important psychologically . Young players know it can be done Winners are inspired by winners. And photos. And homecoming videos.
The Follower used to write in the Donegal Democrat. One of his lines was "they will be remembered by their people"
Cormac Mcgill was the follower, father of croker head honcho Fergal
Quote from: Orchard park on June 09, 2018, 09:13:10 AM
Cormac Mcgill was the follower, father of croker head honcho Fergal
I don't think he lived to see the 2012 all Ireland
Can't believe Westmeath are 3/1 to win this match at home. Armagh stole a victory in Mullingar last year and this years side is considerably weaker no matter how many injuries Westmeath have at present.
Quote from: yellowcard on June 09, 2018, 02:31:20 PM
Can't believe Westmeath are 3/1 to win this match at home. Armagh stole a victory in Mullingar last year and this years side is considerably weaker no matter how many injuries Westmeath have at present.
I don't think you realise how depleted (for various reasons) Westmeath are. Heslin, Sharry, Maguire, Killian Daly, Dolan, Boyle are 6 of their most important players. The depth isn't there. Armagh will win with quite a bit to spare.
I think Armagh might have a dead cat bounce and win this one.
Let's hope the big showers stay away.
Anyone got a radio link for the game?
Midlands103.com
How bad was Rafferty shoulder injury?
Quote from: naka on June 09, 2018, 08:54:04 PM
How bad was Rafferty shoulder injury?
Mi didn't see what happened but he seemed in a lot of pain
Easier than expected win for Armagh. A round 2 draw against Leitrim or Sligo would be nice next but those teams are probably left aside for Tyrone and Mayo.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 10, 2018, 12:33:55 AM
Easier than expected win for Armagh. A round 2 draw against Leitrim or Sligo would be nice next but those teams are probably left aside for Tyrone and Mayo.
To be fair, those in the know such as Shark (see below) seemed to be quite sure of a comfortable Armagh victory.
Quote from: shark on June 09, 2018, 02:53:08 PM
I don't think you realise how depleted (for various reasons) Westmeath are. Heslin, Sharry, Maguire, Killian Daly, Dolan, Boyle are 6 of their most important players. The depth isn't there. Armagh will win with quite a bit to spare.
A mate of mine living in Westmeath told me that the locals were lumping on Armagh to win at -2 points - I think he said that bet was even money.
Still - a win is important in the greater scheme of things, as confidence was fragile enough going into the match. Hopefully if we can get Sheridan back and fully fit and have Grimley back - who can be an excellent addition with his long range frees - then we can push through another round or two, with a favourable draw. I'd have to say though that the feeling must be that the missing players we have will ultimately be an issue that will come back to bite us long before the season heads to the Super 8s.
Any chance of the Cross players returning?
Quote from: Orior on June 10, 2018, 08:48:22 AM
Any chance of the Cross players returning?
Rian O'Neill played for the U20 team this week.
Quote from: Orior on June 10, 2018, 08:48:22 AM
Any chance of the Cross players returning?
Depends on Hughes' injury I suppose
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 10, 2018, 12:33:55 AM
Easier than expected win for Armagh. A round 2 draw against Leitrim or Sligo would be nice next but those teams are probably left aside for Tyrone and Mayo.
Well said.
A good win although Westmeath were very poor. Rafferty going off injured is a big blow
Just one point regarding Patrick burns - he has been excellent this season and his progress has been a real highlight for Armagh. However, someone needs to remind him that he is not from Tyrone and therefore he shouldn't be goading and antagonising opposition players. Have a look at how andy mallon played the game.
Onwards and upwards
Better from Armagh although as others have said Westmeath were poor. Westmeath didn't play defensively in the first half and gave us room to play some nice football. Rafferty, Grugan and Murnin all moved well and some of the football was really good. We went to sleep for 4 or 5 minutes just before half time and Westmeath took advantage and scored three points on the bounce and got themselves back into the game.
I thought Westmeath sat back at the start of the second half and we had difficulty in breaking them down. Our two very lucky goals broke them and it was game over. Minnie McShane had a great cameo with his pace creating havoc in the Westmeath defence. The reception that Jemar Hall received on his substitution was great. He played well and was rewarded for his perseverance over the last few years.
Very disappointing for Ethan Rafferty as it looks like the end of his year. The Westmeath player was lucky to just see yellow for what he did to a clearly injured player right in front of the referee who, in general, was excellent on the evening.
I hope the behaviour of the Armagh support on Saturday evening met with the approval of the Westmeath county board ;)
Quote from: mackers on June 11, 2018, 10:22:03 AM
Better from Armagh although as others have said Westmeath were poor. Westmeath didn't play defensively in the first half and gave us room to play some nice football. Rafferty, Grugan and Murnin all moved well and some of the football was really good. We went to sleep for 4 or 5 minutes just before half time and Westmeath took advantage and scored three points on the bounce and got themselves back into the game.
I thought Westmeath sat back at the start of the second half and we had difficulty in breaking them down. Our two very lucky goals broke them and it was game over. Minnie McShane had a great cameo with his pace creating havoc in the Westmeath defence. The reception that Jemar Hall received on his substitution was great. He played well and was rewarded for his perseverance over the last few years.
Very disappointing for Ethan Rafferty as it looks like the end of his year. The Westmeath player was lucky to just see yellow for what he did to a clearly injured player right in front of the referee who, in general, was excellent on the evening.
I hope the behaviour of the Armagh support on Saturday evening met with the approval of the Westmeath county board ;)
Poor form that -not nice to see a player goad a badly injured opponent.
In fairness to him, Ethan had checked him from getting a return pass and gone to ground - it's likely he wasn't aware of the injury was frustrated.
Quote from: DuffleKing on June 11, 2018, 11:34:32 AM
In fairness to him, Ethan had checked him from getting a return pass and gone to ground - it's likely he wasn't aware of the injury was frustrated.
What did he get a yellow for?
Quote from: DuffleKing on June 11, 2018, 11:34:32 AM
In fairness to him, Ethan had checked him from getting a return pass and gone to ground - it's likely he wasn't aware of the injury was frustrated.
Can't agree with you. I was sitting in the stand and could see Ethan was writhing on the ground in obvious distress but he kept going.
I can tell you i was right beside it on that side of the pitch, i had no problem with the two of them tangling whilst standing but it was crystal clear that when ER was on the ground he was in severe pain as i could hear him and the Westmeath player continued to knock it into him, TBH i can half understand the Westmeath player having just been body checked and the two of them tangling why he continued out of frustration (learn him some manners) but what really angered me was the Ref watched it and done feck all (the Ref had a decent game BTW),
Some Westmeath di*k of fan was shouting "get up da fu*k there is fu*k all wrong with you" in fairness he was a bit embarrassed after ER was stretchered off
I was on the other side so didn't get a good view of what happened. Could tell Rafferty was in severe pain tho. WM no 8 did get a yellow
Quote from: macdanger2 on June 09, 2018, 12:35:12 AM
Quote from: Croí na hÉireann on June 08, 2018, 11:36:07 AM
Thanks illdecide, augers well when the hand wringing starts before the match. Heslin won't be playing, can't even train.
(https://westmeathgaa.ie/cd/uploads/2018/06/WhatsApp-Image-2018-06-07-at-15.52.19-e1528448589895.jpeg)
Who's Boidu Sayeh or what's his heritage? Good to see some new blood in the GAA
https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/monrovia-to-moate-boidu-sayeh-s-extraordinary-journey-to-play-for-westmeath-1.3508433?mode=sample&auth-failed=1&pw-origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.irishtimes.com%2Fsport%2Fgaelic-games%2Fgaelic-football%2Fmonrovia-to-moate-boidu-sayeh-s-extraordinary-journey-to-play-for-westmeath-1.3508433 (https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/monrovia-to-moate-boidu-sayeh-s-extraordinary-journey-to-play-for-westmeath-1.3508433?mode=sample&auth-failed=1&pw-origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.irishtimes.com%2Fsport%2Fgaelic-games%2Fgaelic-football%2Fmonrovia-to-moate-boidu-sayeh-s-extraordinary-journey-to-play-for-westmeath-1.3508433)
Saturday went as expected, predicted a 10 point defeat and was one out. Patched up side was never realistically going to trouble Armagh. Only for the opportunistic goal in the first half the game would have been over at half time. We put on a bit of a spurt in the second half, led by Ger Egan, and got to within 4 points of Armagh but in fairness to them they showed good game management to slow the game down and nick a point the other end. They got a goal courtesy of a post next and that was surely that. Least the day ended with the good news that Kelly won't be there next year and that we'll be spared a drawn out Bealin saga, never a good sign when the manager resigns on the full time whistle. Hopefully we won't have to worry about a manager not showing up for training the week of championship next year. Time to jump on the hurlers bandwagon now.
Quote from: Rufus T Firefly on June 08, 2018, 10:28:18 PM
Quote from: smelmoth on June 08, 2018, 08:46:56 PM
Chill. contend what you like. Your evidence seems to be your own inability to think of an alternative. Imaginative style but somewhat less that convincing.
Re-read the thread. The first poster to link the "drivel" to "humour" is me. Surely you noticed that?
I point out some nonsense on another forum. I'm still not sure why you have a problem with that?
Please try and keep up. Please.
You did indeed link the drivel, or as you also called it 'shite', to the humour. I have been trying to emphasise that it is nothing to get worked up about. Why say that to you? Well, because you said,
Quote from: smelmoth on June 06, 2018, 10:50:49 PM
Reading on the Armagh forum in recent days I notice 2 worrying themes.
That has been my underlying point - it is HUMOUR - it is not to be taken too seriously!! It is not in the least bit worrying.
Take the time to reflect on it, and hopefully in doing so you will see the irony of asking someone to chill, whilst you yourself get worked up on something so innocent.
By all means have the last word on the matter - I sense from your vaguely familiar debating technique that you will not go quietly.
I'm concerned that we nearly always seem to find the need to establish some edge where none exists and more frequently to find some fault with the referee as soon as they are announced. I don't see what is wrong with being concerned or indeed pointing it out?
I'll move on
Quote from: mackers on June 11, 2018, 10:22:03 AM
Better from Armagh although as others have said Westmeath were poor. Westmeath didn't play defensively in the first half and gave us room to play some nice football. Rafferty, Grugan and Murnin all moved well and some of the football was really good. We went to sleep for 4 or 5 minutes just before half time and Westmeath took advantage and scored three points on the bounce and got themselves back into the game.
I thought Westmeath sat back at the start of the second half and we had difficulty in breaking them down. Our two very lucky goals broke them and it was game over. Minnie McShane had a great cameo with his pace creating havoc in the Westmeath defence. The reception that Jemar Hall received on his substitution was great. He played well and was rewarded for his perseverance over the last few years.
Very disappointing for Ethan Rafferty as it looks like the end of his year. The Westmeath player was lucky to just see yellow for what he did to a clearly injured player right in front of the referee who, in general, was excellent on the evening.
I hope the behaviour of the Armagh support on Saturday evening met with the approval of the Westmeath county board ;)
you can only beat what is in front it you and by and large we did that well. The injury is a big blow. I don't think Ethan is at his best at FF but we don't have great options in there