Local derby match with extra spice - Saturday Night at 7.30pm - this should add to the atmosphere
Wee James versus Paddy O'Rourke
Down have started Divsion Two extremely well and will go into the game full of confidence
Have heard rumours that the match is all ticket ? unsure whether this applies to the stand only ?
No doubt Park Esler will be packed to the rafters
As an Armagh man living in Down - this match has stood out from the other fixtures
Can Down get one over the aul enemy ?
Really looking forward to this match
Here's a list of previous meetings and results (Winners in bold) over the last 20 years:
17 Games
Armagh Won 9
Down Won 8
29.06.2008 Ulster SFC SF Down 0-11 Armagh 1-12
25.03.2007 NFL, Div 1 SB Armagh 1-9 Down 0-10
19.03.2006 NFL, Div 1 SB Down 1-11 Armagh 2-9
13.03.2005 NFL, Div 1 SB Armagh 0-12 Down 1-7
18.01.2004 Dr. McKenna Cup SA Down 0-13 Armagh 2-5
12.01.2003 Dr. McKenna Cup QF Armagh 1-15 Down 3-7
09.06.2001 Football Qualifiers L64 Armagh 1-13 Down 2-4
1999 Ulster SFC F Armagh 3-12 Down 0-10
1998 Ulster SFC QF Armagh 0-16 Down 0-11
1998 McKenna Cup F Down 1-12 Armagh 2-8
1996 McKenna Cup F Down 0-14 Armagh 1-5
12.11.1995 NFL, Div 2 League Down 3-9 Armagh 0-5
26.09.1994 Dr. McKenna Cup F Armagh 3-9 Down 1-14
08.06.1992 Ulster SFC QF Down 1-12 Armagh 0-9
30.03.1992 Dr. McKenna Cup QF Down 0-11 Armagh 1-6
10.06.1991 Ulster SFC QF Down 1-7 Armagh 0-8
03.12.1990 NFL, Div 1 League Down 3-13 Armagh 2-4
Bit early to thinking about this one I would have thought. Laois away is a more pressing concern, do we play Kildare as well before Down?
15 years since they've beaten us in League or Championship.
Just thought I'll get the ball rolling..
Aye play Laois away next Saturday 6 March 2010 and then have Kildare at home on Sunday 14 March 2010
It really depends on how both sides fare in the two games before this one. While a Down Armagh clash is always one to savour, it will lose soe of its appeal if either side loses the two games prior to this one. On the other hand if they bith win the next two, they should both be in contention for promotion, and with Down's history of failure (15 years of hurt) there should be a titanic tussle in Newry
Quote from: T Fearon on February 28, 2010, 03:45:01 PM
It really depends on how both sides fare in the two games before this one. While a Down Armagh clash is always one to savour, it will lose soe of its appeal if either side loses the two games prior to this one. On the other hand if they bith win the next two, they should both be in contention for promotion, and with Down's history of failure (15 years of hurt) there should be a titanic tussle in Newry
Reckon Down can afford to lose one of their next two games and still be in the hunt, we probably can't.
This'll be a big game regardless, it'll probably be the first half important game between the two in over a decade that Down will go into as favourites.
Can't believe its four years since we pinched that league win on our last visit to Newry. If ever a game proved that we have the upper hand it was that one. We should have been dead and buried but nicked a famous win
Quote from: T Fearon on February 28, 2010, 04:19:16 PM
Can't believe its four years since we pinched that league win on our last visit to Newry. If ever a game proved that we have the upper hand it was that one. We should have been dead and buried but nicked a famous win
Remember that game well, the day McKeever ate up Coulter. I can remember a certain P O'Rourke gesticulating towards the stands at a few Down scores in the second half, oh how times have changed. It will be interesting to see what sort of reception POR gets from the Down fans. This game will tell us a lot more about the current state of both sides.
was that not the day that coulter destroyed McKeever, who was taken off in the first half?
Quote from: DuffleKing on February 28, 2010, 09:28:39 PM
was that not the day that coulter destroyed McKeever, who was taken off in the first half?
Yeah, football wise he did but Mckeever 'exerted his physical strength' on Coulter who was curtailed thereafter.
Not sure i follow you?
Did anyone else hear it was all ticket ?
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:03:10 PM
Did anyone else hear it was all ticket ?
What's the capacity of Ibrox? We're doing well to get 6,000 at home these days so can't see any more than 10,000 heading to Newry even though its as handy for most of the county as a home match. Be great to see a packed stadium but think all ticket is probably unlikely.
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:03:10 PM
Did anyone else hear it was all ticket ?
Can't see why it would need to be. The capacity of the Marshes is at least 15,000, maybe more. While there'll be a large crowd, they won't get near that.
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:03:10 PM
Did anyone else hear it was all ticket ?
The game is all ticket.
NO tickets for the new stand will be issued to Armagh.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on February 28, 2010, 10:14:41 PM
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:03:10 PM
Did anyone else hear it was all ticket ?
The game is all ticket. NO tickets for the new stand will be issued to Armagh.
As an Armagh Season Ticket holder - I hope to have a good central seat in the stand lol
A nice cup of tea at half time would be nice also
You have no chance of getting a seat in the centre of the stand. For some unknown reason the centre section of the stand seems to be out of bounds to all but the select few. Maybe the gael will have an answer to that one.
Armagh season ticket holders will have to stand on the town terrace for this game.
Will wait and see what happens re the seats
Even the mass times in the local St Marys Chapel have been brought forward - from 7.30pm to 6.00pm
This is for all Down and Armagh Supporters to get their final prayers in
There must be some ticket element to the game
The Quays Shopping Centre are offering tickets as a prize in a competition
Realistically this game will attract 10,000 maximum. I expect Down to be defeated in Donegal this weekend, which will burst all the Mourne bubbles and lead to a swift reality check. It should be as routine a win for Armagh as the Ulster semi final was in 2008
Spot on with your prediction for the Donegal game tony. Can you predict another routine defeat for Down again this weekend.
The game is not all-ticket - only the stand is all-ticket. The stand is worth 2 or 3 points on a Saturday night. We will need it as they have had the luck of the devil against us in recent league games. When I see Joe's tactical awareness by deploying Joe Bergin at CHF I have to ask how the hell did that joker pick teams to beat us when we played them off the park ?
However, we didn't have Marty Clarke. Now, that is a CHF !
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 14, 2010, 06:41:36 PM
Spot on with your prediction for the Donegal game tony. Can you predict another routine defeat for Down again this weekend.
:D :D
Quote from: Caitlin on March 14, 2010, 07:04:20 PM
The game is not all-ticket - only the stand is all-ticket. The stand is worth 2 or 3 points on a Saturday night. We will need it as they have had the luck of the devil against us in recent league games. When I see Joe's tactical awareness by deploying Joe Bergin at CHF I have to ask how the hell did that joker pick teams to beat us when we played them off the park ?
However, we didn't have Marty Clarke. Now, that is a CHF !
What in the name of God are you talking about?
The major factor in Armagh's favour is that for some reason Down management still think that James Colgan is a county footballer.
This may not be the last meeting of Down and Armagh this season. They could meet again in the league decider if they both finish the season strongly, regardless of Saturdays result.
One thing that won't change after this game, Armagh will still only have one All Ireland. That won't change in my lifetime. :D
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 14, 2010, 07:21:18 PM
This may not be the last meeting of Down and Armagh this season. They could meet again in the league decider if they both finish the season strongly, regardless of Saturdays result.
One thing that won't change after this game, Armagh will still only have one All Ireland. That won't change in my lifetime. :D
We have them scared lads. Resorting to some shite about medieval history already.
Down: the land before time began.
So the life expectancy isn't great Trevor Hill. Don't worry, medical science can do wonders.
Quote from: armaghniac on March 14, 2010, 07:44:23 PM
So the life expectancy isn't great Trevor Hill. Don't worry, medical science can do wonders.
Daisy Hill.
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 14, 2010, 07:15:41 PM
Quote from: Caitlin on March 14, 2010, 07:04:20 PM
The game is not all-ticket - only the stand is all-ticket. The stand is worth 2 or 3 points on a Saturday night. We will need it as they have had the luck of the devil against us in recent league games. When I see Joe's tactical awareness by deploying Joe Bergin at CHF I have to ask how the hell did that joker pick teams to beat us when we played them off the park ?
However, we didn't have Marty Clarke. Now, that is a CHF !
What in the name of God are you talking about?
TAM
I'll go slowly
A number of posters on this thread have said how lucky Armagh have been in recent league games V Down .
Joe Kernan was the Armagh manager for all bar one or two of those.
Joe Kernan is now the manager of Galway.
Joe Kernan has been picking Joe Bergin at CHF ( that's Centre Half Forward) .
This has caused much amusement among followers of the game as he is clearly a midfielder and not a CHF.
This was particularly evident today in the 10 point home defeat to a Kerry team short a number of key players.
I was suggesting that this highlighted a lack of reading of the game by Joe.
I further suggested that Marty Clarke was a good CHF
By your logic, Caitlin, Armagh will be so much better now that they have gotten rid of that tactical dunce, Kernan. You must be really fearing next Saturday then.
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:19:52 PM
Quote from: Trevor Hill on February 28, 2010, 10:14:41 PM
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:03:10 PM
Did anyone else hear it was all ticket ?
The game is all ticket. NO tickets for the new stand will be issued to Armagh.
As an Armagh Season Ticket holder - I hope to have a good central seat in the stand lol
A nice cup of tea at half time would be nice also
AFAIK
The stand will be a pemium, even for season ticket holders as it said on the webite
"This means that NO Passes are vaild to gain entry to the stand any Patrons wishing to be accomodated in the stand must have a Match Ticket, this applies to Under 16s as well, there is no free admission to the Stand for Under 16s."
Have to say this is a disgrace on a few levels,
-Season Ticket Holders are paying double (minimum) entry fee to get a stand seat.
-Under 16's, Students & OAP's are forced to pay full whack for a seat
-Real fans aren't rewarded, surely those who have been to Kildare & Donegal are more deserving of a seat than those with the right contact.
County board in fairness want to profit from the biggest gate of the season (league wise) but not offering concessions isn't right.
If you want a seat in the stand I'd say it should be first come first served.
Quote from: down6061689194 on March 14, 2010, 08:37:40 PM
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:19:52 PM
Quote from: Trevor Hill on February 28, 2010, 10:14:41 PM
Quote from: Shortso79 on February 28, 2010, 10:03:10 PM
Did anyone else hear it was all ticket ?
The game is all ticket. NO tickets for the new stand will be issued to Armagh.
As an Armagh Season Ticket holder - I hope to have a good central seat in the stand lol
A nice cup of tea at half time would be nice also
AFAIK
The stand will be a pemium, even for season ticket holders as it said on the webite
"This means that NO Passes are vaild to gain entry to the stand any Patrons wishing to be accomodated in the stand must have a Match Ticket, this applies to Under 16s as well, there is no free admission to the Stand for Under 16s."
Have to say this is a disgrace on a few levels,
-Season Ticket Holders are paying double (minimum) entry fee to get a stand seat.
-Under 16's, Students & OAP's are forced to pay full whack for a seat
-Real fans aren't rewarded, surely those who have been to Kildare & Donegal are more deserving of a seat than those with the right contact.
County board in fairness want to profit from the biggest gate of the season (league wise) but not offering concessions isn't right.
If you want a seat in the stand I'd say it should be first come first served.
I'm not sure that could right, if it is the Down county board should be ashamed of themselves. Surely season ticket holders will have be accomodated in the stand. When they bought their ticket they paid for a seat in a stand, albeit with the provisio that they may have to arrive in good time to ensure they get that seat. Deliberately excluding them from the stand would be a disgrace.
Very Strange decision by the Down County Board
I'd say we will hear more of this during the week
Ticket Arrangements For Down v Armagh
Patrons are reminded that the Stand in Páirc Esler will be All Ticket for the forthcoming Down V Armagh National Football League Game.
This means that NO Passes are vaild to gain entry to the stand any Patrons wishing to be accomodated in the stand must have a Match Ticket, this applies to Under 16s as well, there is no free admission to the Stand for Under 16s.
In relation to the Terracing at Pairc Esler the normal concessions apply and Under 16s are admitted free to the terracing.
Tickets can be obtained in the first instance through your Club or from the Down GAA Office 46-48 Main Street Castlewellan, there will be no tickets on sale on the day.
http://www.downgaa.net/
This will be as close to a championship tie as you can get in March, it'll be a good measure as to how our new players can handle a high intensity match with a cracking atmosphere.
The Mind games have started already....
"The win was a promising one especially in light of the disappointment last week v Tipperary. It also gives the Down players confidence as they embark upon a crunch tie versus age old rivals and massive favourites Armagh next Saturday. Get there early as it's going to be well attended!"
Taken from the Donegal Down Match Report
http://www.downgaa.net/
While the points about season tickets are valid, the tickets for under 16s are a fiver .
Where will I be Seated?
You will be entitled to access to the stand for your county's matches wherever possible. If there is no reserved seating, seats will be available in the stand on a first come, first served basis. For matches where the stand is ticketed, the section is pre-determined. For example, for Croke Park fixtures you will be seated in 304 or 305 in the Cusack Stand.
You will be guaranteed a seat in a stand for any all-ticket Provincial Championship matches, All-Ireland Quarter Finals, All-Ireland Semi-Finals and any other matches in Croke Park involving your county. You may be required to confirm your attendance and print your seat numbers on-line in advance for these matches. On-line confirmation has no impact on the cost to you.
http://www.gaa.ie/tickets-and-merchandise/tickets/gaa-season-ticket/where-will-i-be-seated/
Surely they'd have to accomadate the few hundred season ticket holders? If not it will be a disgrace. Was it down who tried to include club games in their season ticket and put an extra 50 euro on it? They will end up with the stand not full as people won't be bothered looking tickets.
I have emailed the season ticket office and will be on the phone to the County office tomorrow morning. Once again the Down board are showing how out of touch they are.
On the subject of the game, I can't see Down losing this one. Armagh are yesterdays team. They rely on the old hands too much. Down are the future.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 14, 2010, 09:20:44 PM
I have emailed the season ticket office and will be on the phone to the County office tomorrow morning. Once again the Down board are showing how out of touch they are.
On the subject of the game, I can't see Down losing this one. Armagh are yesterdays team. They rely on the old hands too much. Down are the future.
Who are they?
Big fight next week between Sandy Hill (Armagh) and Trevor Hill (Newry).
Looser goes on the dung hill.
Quote from: Orior on March 14, 2010, 09:43:31 PM
Big fight next week between Sandy Hill (Armagh) and Trevor Hill (Newry).
Looser goes on the dung hill.
It's ticket only Orior!
Quote from: Orior on March 14, 2010, 09:43:31 PM
Big fight next week between Sandy Hill (Armagh) and Trevor Hill (Newry).
Looser goes on the dung hill.
HILLarious.
I'm told that U-16s can get a seat in the stand for £5.
To me this is fantastic value for a game of this interest a nd fail to see what all this nonesense is about.
As for £15 for adults, you'd pay this and more to see some rubblish in the cinema.
I know nothing about the workings of the Down county board but the criticisms seem to me to be petty and wide of the mark.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 14, 2010, 09:20:44 PM
I have emailed the season ticket office and will be on the phone to the County office tomorrow morning. Once again the Down board are showing how out of touch they are.
On the subject of the game, I can't see Down losing this one. Armagh are yesterdays team. They rely on the old hands too much. Down are the future.
Don't know much, do ya? Between this and the "Armagh only have one AI" post earlier you're intent on dragging this thread down to your level.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 14, 2010, 09:20:44 PM
I have emailed the season ticket office and will be on the phone to the County office tomorrow morning. Once again the Down board are showing how out of touch they are.
On the subject of the game, I can't see Down losing this one. Armagh are yesterdays team. They rely on the old hands too much. Down are the future.
Remine me how many of Armagh's starting XV today were over 30.
Going to Malaga on friday on a stag do, half ArmaghTyrone lads, is the game on TV, ahh looking forward to it already.
Hope O'Rouke doesn't ruin it by playing all them ole boys like McAvoy, Duffy, Mallon, Swift, Toner, Kernan, Donaghy, forker, Hendy, McNamee.
McKeever just might make it at 27.
Would yous stop feeding the trolls ffs
i am happy that armagh can play the kingpins of ulster football on saturday, hopefully this years certs for the all ireland wont give us an almight hiding,
You know Cavan have 5 AI as well and there is not the same sh-te from them ;D
The winner of this match on Sat nite will def be favourites to be promoted...i wouldn't rule out a draw lads ;)
Brings back memories of past clashes. Anyone else remember the Down V Armagh clash in the snow way back in 1980, in the marshes, when you could hardly see a thing for snowflakes and the game ended 6 each or something? I remember a massive crowd in attendance on a day only lunatics would have ventured out of the house. Hard to imagine that was 30 years ago
Is this live on TG4? Stuck in Liverpool.
No match is only on Setanta.
hate it when Down fans get sucked into this shite especially with Armagh supporters.
We have fk all to crow about given our last 15 years - so plllzzzzzz stop hyping Down up. We have started very very well, much better than expected but we have won fk all. We are miles off q final stage All Ireland material but the signs are positive. Even if we lose this weekend, we should still go up given we have Westmeath and Laois although Laois will be no handy touch.
Really looking forward to the game this weekend though, biggest hype since 99 and we know what happened there! :o
Surely the hype was even greater ahead of the Ulster semi final in 2008. Remember the one Down went into after beating Tyrone and were going to wipe the floor with Armagh, and romp to an All Ireland win? Turned out to be a pedestrian affair with Armagh winning without having to break sweat.
The game is now all ticket.
Disaster. Down Clubs only getting 12 stand tickets each....there'll be some rows about this...
Quote from: 5 Sams on March 15, 2010, 03:23:48 PM
Disaster. Down Clubs only getting 12 stand tickets each....there'll be some rows about this...
Sean og wont see you stuck for a ticket. ;)
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 15, 2010, 03:02:02 PM
The game is now all ticket.
F**k they may get the finger out quick as they'll not have much time to get them distributed among the clubs...should be fine for one myself ;)
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 15, 2010, 03:02:02 PM
The game is now all ticket.
Trevor Hill who tolsdyou this cos our club have heard nothing about it being all-ticket( save for the stand)
Quote
Nuachtraiteas - Press Release – Nuachtraiteas
It has been decided this morning that the Down v Armagh Game on Saturday Night will be an All Ticket Game
Tickets will be priced as follows
Stand
£13.00 €15.00
UNDER 16 £4.00 OR €5.00
Terrace
£10.00 or €13.00
Under 16s £4.00 or €5.00
The Down County Office 46-48 Main Street Castlewellan will be open for the distribution of Tickets as follows;
Monday 15th March 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Tuesday 16th March 10.30 am to 5.30 pm
Thursday 18th March 10.30 am to 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm
Friday 19th March 10.00 am to 5.30 pm
Shocking bad organisation to be only making the decision five days before the game, especially with a bank holiday stuck in the middle of that.
Does anyone know does Domi Clarke's bar still exist? Or recommend somewhere on the right side of town for a pint before the match?
Quote from: AFS on March 15, 2010, 04:12:43 PM
Shocking bad organisation to be only making the decision five days before the game, especially with a bank holiday stuck in the middle of that.
Pathetic. This fixture was out months ago and they decide this on the Monday previous. Ridiculous.
for what its worth can only see about 12/13000 at this
pathetic by the gaa
kids should get in for free
who gets the dough from this match
I'll be in duiblin saturday night and although the game's on setanta the jacks are on at the same time. Anybody any clue where a body might see the Down game in the metropolis?(I know it's a long shot)
Quote from: hobit hunter on March 15, 2010, 04:18:15 PM
Does anyone know does Domi Clarke's bar still exist? Or recommend somewhere on the right side of town for a pint before the match?
Yep...it's called McCoys..before that you have the Independent Club as well....there'll be a bit more room in there!
Absolutely appaled at the concession prices for this game.
Charging for under16's?
I thought it was Ulster Council protocol to have U16's free for all games untill championship to drum up attendances.
Couty board are really ballsing this one up.
Quote from: down6061689194 on March 15, 2010, 05:06:19 PM
Absolutely appaled at the concession prices for this game.
Charging for under16's?
I thought it was Ulster Council protocol to have U16's free for all games untill championship to drum up attendances.
Couty board are really ballsing this one up.
That was my understanding too. my 14 year old and my 16 (almost 17) year old has gotten in free to the last 2 games. Is it a county board call?
They would have, and you do at every national league game in the country.
Starting to think the ame won't live up to the hype, and really do hope this comes back to bite the county board
Season ticket holders will be given tickets for the stand at the season ticket stile on Saturday evening. I ll post the email I received when I get home later as I can't do it from my phone.
All season ticket holders will be seated together which should spice things up a little. ;)
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 15, 2010, 04:26:18 PM
Quote from: AFS on March 15, 2010, 04:12:43 PM
Shocking bad organisation to be only making the decision five days before the game, especially with a bank holiday stuck in the middle of that.
Pathetic. This fixture was out months ago and they decide this on the Monday previous. Ridiculous.
Not so bad for the average supporter, just a minor inconvenience for most. But the boys that sort out the tickets in the CB and the clubs will be right fucked off to have this landed on them with no notice, especially as many will have other things on this week with the holiday. The charging of U16s is pathetic profiteering.
A totally irrational decision by the Co.Board, if it were they that made the decision have game all ticket. The charging off U16s is an absolute disgrace, and i hope a decision they have not heard the last off. The Clubs must make their voices heard on this issue
Quote from: Pangurban on March 15, 2010, 08:48:25 PM
A totally irrational decision by the Co.Board, if it were they that made the decision have game all ticket. The charging off U16s is an absolute disgrace, and i hope a decision they have not heard the last off. The Clubs must make their voices heard on this issue
The decision was made around lunch time by the county board. I got a text during my lunch from someone who was at the meeting. They are even takling Wednesday off which means that they have 3 days to sort this mess out.
They had originally planned to make the game all ticket but dropped the idea.
This should not be decided with 5 days to go. If a clear decision had been taken earlier they could have sold tickets at the Armagh Kildare game, or the last Down home game, reducing the hassle for the clubs and all concerned. .
Quote from: armaghniac on March 15, 2010, 08:57:06 PM
This should not be decided with 5 days to go. If a clear decision had been taken earlier they could have sold tickets at the Armagh Kildare game, or the last Down home game, reducing the hassle for the clubs and all concerned. .
It is the Down county board we are talking about. Reducing hassle for the average fan is not on certain peoples agenda. Obviously I cannot say too much on a public forum, but not everyone is happy. This is going to mean a hell of a lot of work and grief for some.
Clubs have now been put in the position where they have been asked to order tickets from the County Board with a few hours notice and told that if they order too many they'll have to pay for the surplus tickets. Its an absolute disgrace the extra pressure that has been piled on club administrators because of a farcical and inept decision making process.
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion. You avoid all the hassle on occasions like this and can rest content that your seat/ticket is always secured no matter what. It was the prime motivation as far as I was concerned at any rate
Sounds to me like the GAA is doing its best to sell out a game that would have attracted between 13,000 to 15,000. Once people hear its all ticket they panic and a rush develops that would not otherwise have materialised. Good marketing ploy all the same
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion. You avoid all the hassle on occasions like this and can rest content that your seat/ticket is always secured no matter what. It was the prime motivation as far as I was concerned at any rate
Sounds to me like the GAA is doing its best to sell out a game that would have attracted between 13,000 to 15,000. Once people hear its all ticket they panic and a rush develops that would not otherwise have materialised. Good marketing ploy all the same
I'd say it'll have the opposite effect Tony, a lot of people who would've shown up on the night couldn't be arsed with the hunt for tickets and will watch it on TV.
Quote from: mackers on March 15, 2010, 10:45:58 PM
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion. You avoid all the hassle on occasions like this and can rest content that your seat/ticket is always secured no matter what. It was the prime motivation as far as I was concerned at any rate
Sounds to me like the GAA is doing its best to sell out a game that would have attracted between 13,000 to 15,000. Once people hear its all ticket they panic and a rush develops that would not otherwise have materialised. Good marketing ploy all the same
I'd say it'll have the opposite effect Tony, a lot of people who would've shown up on the night couldn't be arsed with the hunt for tickets and will watch it on TV.
Exactly. Just look what happened in Inniskeen a week ago.
Yeah mackers, that always happens around All Ireland Final time ::)
The match presumably is on setanta, which will preclude a lot of people seeing it.
I would say there'll not be too much hassle getting a ticket for anyone who wants one, but I'm just glad I have a season ticket and am now spared all this hassle and can even celebrate future All Ireland semi final wins for Armagh, without euphoria immediately giving way to worrying about final tickets.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion. You avoid all the hassle on occasions like this and can rest content that your seat/ticket is always secured no matter what. It was the prime motivation as far as I was concerned at any rate
Sounds to me like the GAA is doing its best to sell out a game that would have attracted between 13,000 to 15,000. Once people hear its all ticket they panic and a rush develops that would not otherwise have materialised. Good marketing ploy all the same
Are you trying to portray youself as a serious gaa man? Your own county wouldnt even give you a ticket for the All Ireland final in 2002. Thats how seriously you are taken. There were quite a few of your customers wetting themselves laughing at you in the credit union and they could easily have sorted you out. Go back to Windsor Park, it was your first and only true love.
I see you are now predicting 15000. What happened to your prediction of 10000 last week?
T Fearon the demand for tickets for this Staurday's match can hardly be likened to that for an All-Ireland Final.
As for people needing to buy a season ticket to prove they are true GAA people- I have never heard so much BS! Not many GAA people who work and have young families can travel the length of the country for a match every weekend one is on. I really think you need to wind your neck in
i see thare are no concessions either...complete greediness by either county board or gaa...how was the Tyrone V Derry match handled or even Kerry V Cork...surely not in the same manner.
disgrace as a student/oap and all children to have to pay £10 (fiver for kids) at a cold league match...say what ye like about it bein a big occasion but its only the league
worse than that people now have 3 days in the middle St Patricks week to make their way to Castlewellan (im from newry) no consideration at all! paying at the terrace would have been grand...put ya in bad form for a cracking game!
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion. You avoid all the hassle on occasions like this and can rest content that your seat/ticket is always secured no matter what. It was the prime motivation as far as I was concerned at any rate
Sounds to me like the GAA is doing its best to sell out a game that would have attracted between 13,000 to 15,000. Once people hear its all ticket they panic and a rush develops that would not otherwise have materialised. Good marketing ploy all the same
Is there a reduction in season tickets for students or pensioners? - No - so can you not have serious fans that are entitled to concessions?
Anyway - the season tickets are a con to get more money, since you have to buy a ticket for even match even if your not going - unless you cancel the tickets, when you consider the qualifiers - these matches can be miles away every weekend - it can just be too much money for some people. As can the fact you get charged for a stand ticket for every championshio match when the terraces are cheaper
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion. You avoid all the hassle on occasions like this and can rest content that your seat/ticket is always secured no matter what. It was the prime motivation as far as I was concerned at any rate
Sounds to me like the GAA is doing its best to sell out a game that would have attracted between 13,000 to 15,000. Once people hear its all ticket they panic and a rush develops that would not otherwise have materialised. Good marketing ploy all the same
Tony i thought you were a right fella but recently you have went of the rails completely. I haven't missed a championship in i don't know how long, i don't get to many league match's as I'm involved with our senior team and most days Armagh are playing in the league we either have a match or training. I also have 2 young kids to attend too which makes it even harder to get.
So does that make you more of a Gael than me or anyone else...you have made it quite clear that your first love is soccer so don't come on here patronising the rest of us because you won or found a season ticket somewhere.
Ignore Tony!
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion.
That is on par with Trevor Hill saying money isnt the problem (or something similar)
Complete sh1te
Quote from: full back on March 16, 2010, 01:03:01 PM
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion.
That is on par with Trevor Hill saying money isnt the problem (or something similar)
Complete sh1te
McKeever to eat up young Clarke this weekend.
Quote from: fairplay on March 16, 2010, 12:01:52 PM
Ignore Tony!
Have you become more reasonable since your 5ive Times days then?
Quote from: Apple Crumble on March 16, 2010, 03:59:49 PM
Quote from: full back on March 16, 2010, 01:03:01 PM
Quote from: T Fearon on March 15, 2010, 10:40:52 PM
Any true, serious GAA fan should own a season ticket, in my opinion.
That is on par with Trevor Hill saying money isnt the problem (or something similar)
Complete sh1te
McKeever to eat up young Clarke this weekend.
Can we talk about the game rather than petty squabbles amomg men who should know better ?
Apple Crumble, your question is a fair one as Mc Keever has normally 'marked' ( and I use the term in it's broadest sense) Benny. But POR has a problem.We have JC,MC,BC and PMcC.Who will C Mc Keever target ?I think it will be an intriguing battle and RC will be a huge loss to youse ones.Pat will need to be on top of his whistle . Bring it on !
Andy Mallon could take Marty...though as mentioned there is the small matter of his brother, Coulter and McComiskey...the latter hasn't been hitting his best form though from what I hear?
DD there was talk of Pat McEnaney reffing on Saturday night but according to today's fixtures Martin Sludden of Tyrone is actually the man in charge. He booked nine players in the Fermanagh/Louth game last weekend even through it was apparently a low-key affair, so he may be busy enough at the Marshes.
However, big Paddy seems to have kept his cool so far this season while James has been measured as well, so there is no particular reason to expect fireworks.
Armagh have been the more disciplined and focused side in these matches for some time, which is why they have won every league and championship meeting with Down for the last 15 years. Both have shown some decent form so far this season, so it should be a tight one.
I was looking forward to this game until now. Sludden as ref? Great! ::)
History has told us Big Paddy can only keep his cool for so long. However, I think he will keep it this Saturday, which worries me.Let's face it : Paddy O' Rourke is a Down man to his backbone and it's hard-wired into his DNA to hate Armagh.He has been the model of decorum to date so it shows that,just like Ross,we should always be weary of a lover spurned.Remember Paddy,like Ross, fought like blazes to keep his job with Down.He lined up Mc Elkennon and anyone else he thought could take him the extra mile but the powers that be (TPTB) had decided he was toast . Ross did the same. I think it was wrong and sad that these two great Down-men had to do that and we all need to think about who should be the critical friend to managers whose passion prevents them reading the situation objectively.I don't think Paddy could have done any more with Down but I did think Ross could. Remember, he did all the heavy-lifting to get Marty home and it was a spectacular O.G. to fall out with John .Most people know that these are two young men who epitomise the best of Irish man-hood and I think they (along with Benny, Mc Comiskey, Ambrose and Kevin Mc Kernan) will just about do enough to get us over the line on Saturday night.
Andy M will likely take on McComiskey.
Brendy Donaghy to take John Clarke.
Paul Kernan / Finn mo possibly to take on Benny.
Time for Duffy to move out to the wing.
I'd have no worries about the Armagh full back line. The Down full back line on the other hand...
Midfield will be crucial. I don't expect Toner to give Rodgers the freedom he has been accustomed to over the past few weeks. How far is Charlie Vernon away from starting? He could be the difference.
We have conceeded the least scores of any team across all four divisions so far and it will be a fierce, hard hitting, and probably low scoring contest. I expect McComiskey, Coulter and M Clarke will receive a lot of "attention" from the Armagh defence and so i think John Clarke and Danny Hughes will do the most damage to Armagh. We should win by about 2 points
Quote from: Goats Do Shave on March 17, 2010, 08:59:38 AM
Andy M will likely take on McComiskey.
Brendy Donaghy to take John Clarke.
Paul Kernan / Finn mo possibly to take on Benny.
Time for Duffy to move out to the wing.
I'd have no worries about the Armagh full back line. The Down full back line on the other hand...
Midfield will be crucial. I don't expect Toner to give Rodgers the freedom he has been accustomed to over the past few weeks. How far is Charlie Vernon away from starting? He could be the difference.
Ambrose has been on great form and with this confidence he should put on a powerful display. He will be on the full back line closing down the Armagh forwards when the game is tight and could surge forward to take a score himself when we need it most
I think the current Armagh defence are being somewhat tarnished. McKeever would be the only defender who has a history of cynicism.
Ambrose is a super footballer, I'm glad he recovered from that terrible injury.
I'd agree there'll be 1 or 2 points in it. Hard to say which way it will go
Quote from: dodgy umpire on March 17, 2010, 09:12:09 AM
We have conceeded the least scores of any team across all four divisions so far
Apparently Down haven't even conceded the least in div 2:
Division Two
Top Scorers.................Armagh (2-57: 4 games)
Lowest Scorers............Westmeath (5-33: 4 games); Tipperary (3-39: 4 games)
Most conceded.............Westmeath (4-68: 4 games)
Least conceded.............Armagh (2-33: 4 games)
The least conceded in all divisions goes to Limerick:
Least conceded............Limerick (2-32: 4 games)
Although I got this from the HS site, so can't be sure of its veracity:
http://www.hoganstand.com/Armagh/ArticleForm.aspx?ID=125550
Co not think I have ever heard of Andy Mallon, Donaghy or Duffy ever accused of cynicism, even in club football. Much of this talk is based on media hype from a number of years ago. We really do not have many players who could fit the typecast of old. New manager, new team. Just hope for a good game with a good refereeing performance. What neither team need is suspended players.
Quote from: Throw ball on March 17, 2010, 12:40:03 PM
Co not think I have ever heard of Andy Mallon, Donaghy or Duffy ever accused of cynicism, even in club football. Much of this talk is based on media hype from a number of years ago. We really do not have many players who could fit the typecast of old. New manager, new team. Just hope for a good game with a good refereeing performance. What neither team need is suspended players.
Whats' Down's Martin Clarke general play like? i.e. if he wasn't hitting the frees, would he be a definet starter?
Quote from: Apple Crumble on March 17, 2010, 05:57:33 PM
Quote from: Throw ball on March 17, 2010, 12:40:03 PM
Co not think I have ever heard of Andy Mallon, Donaghy or Duffy ever accused of cynicism, even in club football. Much of this talk is based on media hype from a number of years ago. We really do not have many players who could fit the typecast of old. New manager, new team. Just hope for a good game with a good refereeing performance. What neither team need is suspended players.
Whats' Down's Martin Clarke general play like? i.e. if he wasn't hitting the frees, would he be a definet starter?
A cert.
Quote from: Apple Crumble on March 17, 2010, 05:57:33 PM
Quote from: Throw ball on March 17, 2010, 12:40:03 PM
Co not think I have ever heard of Andy Mallon, Donaghy or Duffy ever accused of cynicism, even in club football. Much of this talk is based on media hype from a number of years ago. We really do not have many players who could fit the typecast of old. New manager, new team. Just hope for a good game with a good refereeing performance. What neither team need is suspended players.
Whats' Down's Martin Clarke general play like? i.e. if he wasn't hitting the frees, would he be a definet starter?
Nah he's useless ;)
true, paddy O wont want to see down trashed but the players will go for it regardless. mckeever loves this stuff, he'll be on clarkes tail, in his face, never fails to rise to the occasion. hate to use martin mc hughs meanderings but clarke v mckeever will be worth queing for. it'll be low scoring i think armagh by 4 or 5. downs defence is waiting to be exposed.
Anyone know how long of a ban Tony and Trevor got hit with?
In Tony's case, it couldn't be long enough
I agree with your first point but not the second
Quote from: hardstation on March 17, 2010, 10:57:21 PM
It will be interesting on Saturday night. History between the two and serious rivals. Both are probably at the same level. Would be great to be there to see it.
I'm backing Trevor Hill.
As for the shite that will be served up on the pitch, who cares? Neither will do fcuk all this year.
:D
This from an Antrim man too
Does Tony know Trevor's true identity? If not he'll be at a disadvantage and will, no doubt, be looking over his shoulder all evening
Quote from: hardstation on March 17, 2010, 11:07:39 PM
Quote from: ardmhachaabu on March 17, 2010, 10:58:40 PM
Quote from: hardstation on March 17, 2010, 10:57:21 PM
It will be interesting on Saturday night. History between the two and serious rivals. Both are probably at the same level. Would be great to be there to see it.
I'm backing Trevor Hill.
As for the shite that will be served up on the pitch, who cares? Neither will do fcuk all this year.
:D
This from an Antrim man too
An Antrim man has said that neither Armagh or Down will do fcuk all this year, yeah. Will they?
That remains to be seen. Writing them both off when both have potential is kind of silly though, don't you agree?
How about seeing how the rest of the league pans out and then make predictions from there?
I reckon Armagh have the potential to surprise everyone this year, regardless of whether they do anything in Ulster. Down, maybe not, their backs have been proven to be as leaky as a sieve to date
HS, if I was a gambler, I would call you on that.
Tell you what, even if we don't get past Derry, I reckon we will still get to quarter finals at the least through the back door
Armagh have to be raging hot favourites for this years AI. A county with such a history and with such a record in AIFs has to be one of the front runners every year. Add in the new management and his standing with the Armagh support, is it any wonder Darragh O`Se retired.
Quote from: hardstation on March 17, 2010, 11:42:32 PM
Quote from: ardmhachaabu on March 17, 2010, 11:37:41 PM
HS, if I was a gambler, I would call you on that.
Tell you what, even if we don't get past Derry, I reckon we will still get to quarter finals at the least through the back door
That's your 'surprise'? Quarter final? Can't fault your ambition... ::)
Well, I'd say it would surprise most punters if Armagh were to make it that far even. I wouldn't be foolish enough to say they would win outright :P
To clarify my previous comment, it is my opinion that serious GAA Fans (ie those like myself who attends most league games and all Championship games for the past 30 odd years) should purchase a season ticket. The price in my opinion is not prohibitive (though I concede for some it may be) particularly for regular attendess, represents good value for money and a saving on the admission price for the sum of the games it affords admission to, and most importantly, and the prime motivation for me was the guarantee of tickets for all games, league or Championship, in which one's county is involved.. Now I'm sorry if this offends some people, but that is my rationale. Of course if you are not able to attend many games, then it doesn't make sense to purchase a season ticket.
Yes I was banned for two days for fueding. As for 5 Sams, Trevor Hill (or anyone else who hides behinds pyseudonyms) they know where to find me on Saturday night if they want to have a go, though in Trev's case there might not be much left for me to do when my wife's finished with him :D
Quote from: T Fearon on March 18, 2010, 09:25:32 AM
To clarify my previous comment, it is my opinion that serious GAA Fans (ie those like myself who attends most league games and all Championship games for the past 30 odd years) should purchase a season ticket. The price in my opinion is not prohibitive (though I concede for some it may be) particularly for regular attendess, represents good value for money and a saving on the admission price for the sum of the games it affords admission to, and most importantly, and the prime motivation for me was the guarantee of tickets for all games, league or Championship, in which one's county is involved.. Now I'm sorry if this offends some people, but that is my rationale. Of course if you are not able to attend many games, then it doesn't make sense to purchase a season ticket.
Yes I was banned for two days for fueding. As for 5 Sams, Trevor Hill (or anyone else who hides behinds pyseudonyms) they know where to find me on Saturday night if they want to have a go, though in Trev's case there might not be much left for me to do when my wife's finished with him :D
Fair play to ya Tony :D
Trevor and Tony would you two not go private with your love affair ... set up msn, get a webcam, meet for a date ... ya wouldn think theres any football to be played this saturday night with you two langers! Im sure all down and armagh people alike will agree!
Think if Down play well on sat night, theyl win .... but have a bad feeling Armaghs experienced defence wont let them play! tight one but hopefully Down by 2
Any one know if Charlie vernon is fit for sat
evening
For what its worth I fancy an Armagh win on the basis that the two attacks are more or less equal (though Stevie's current form probably sways this slightly in Armagh's favour, and a fit Ronan would have given Armagh a decided advantage), as are the respective midfields, but Armagh's defence is vastly superior to Down's, Donaghy and Mc Keever will take care of the Clarkes, and Coulter in terms of a scoring theat is past his sell by date. Armagh to continue their dominance , now well into its second decade, by 3 points.
Great thread lads, keep her lit! ;)
Hows everyone getting on with the ticket lark
Cant see Vernon playing on Saturday - I hope I'm wrong though
Wonder will there be tickets on sale on the day / night ?
Hardly going refuse hard earned cash ?
Will we be able to watch it in the Newry Shamrocks club if we dont get a ticket.?
Have they got Setanta.?
Think you will need a ticket to get into the club - as its behind the turnstiles
Is there a bigger inter-county rivalry between the fans than Armagh/Down?
Obviously not on the field as Armagh win all the the time ;D
Quote from: Shortso79 on March 18, 2010, 09:24:39 PM
Hows everyone getting on with the ticket lark
Cant see Vernon playing on Saturday - I hope I'm wrong though
I was told by a reliable source that he did a run out on Newtownhamilton field last week with the county physio and was moving very well.
Quote from: Pearse og on March 18, 2010, 10:10:14 PM
Is there a bigger inter-county rivalry between the fans than Armagh/Down?
Obviously not on the field as Armagh win all the the time ;D
Intelligent post
Down unchanged.
1. Declan Alder
2. Daniel McCartan
3. Brendan McArdle
4. Damien Rafferty
5. Kevin McKernan
6. James Colgan
7. Conor Garvey
8. Ambrose Rogers
9. Kalum King
10. Danny Hughes
11. Martin Clarke
12. Stephen Kearney
13. Paul McComiskey
14. John Clarke
15. Brendan Coulter
16. Brendan McVeigh
17. Kevin Duffin
18. Mark Poland
19. Aidan Brannigan
20. Peter Fitzpatrick
21. James McGovern
22. Conor Laverty
23. Ronan Murtagh
24. Gerard McCartan
Quote from: Shortso79 on March 18, 2010, 10:03:03 PM
Think you will need a ticket to get into the club - as its behind the turnstiles
You can get into the club before a game without going through the turnstiles, but the club closes about 15 minutes before a game and doesnt open until the game finishes.
Paddy O'Rourke looks ahead to Down v Armagh
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Paddy-O-Rourke-looks-to-Down-clash.aspx
Just watch out on Sat night parking around the ground, our good friends in the RUC have a wee peek for tax, insurance, etc on cars parked around the ground (times have changed ...) your not in south armagh now ;)
Maybe they should have a peek inside the ground. I saw a prominent Armagh official's car this morning and the tax on his vehicle was two months out of date, and in fact nearly three months :D
Is there any possibility of getting tickets outside the ground?? Is it Setanta Ireland the game is being shown on??
You probably could blag tickets outside the ground, im sure therel be spares on a Saturday night!
GDS went through the probable match ups in the Down attack/ Armagh defence a few pages back, I'd say he's most of them right with the exception of the Finn Mo match up with Coulter. Looking at that Down line up, who will McCartan put on Stevie? I'm sure it's not going to be Dan McCartan, poor lad had a torrid time of it against Clarke in the Championship in 08.
Quote from: mackers on March 19, 2010, 10:22:41 AM
GDS went through the probable match ups in the Down attack/ Armagh defence a few pages back, I'd say he's most of them right with the exception of the Finn Mo match up with Coulter. Looking at that Down line up, who will McCartan put on Stevie? I'm sure it's not going to be Dan McCartan, poor lad had a torrid time of it against Clarke in the Championship in 08.
You reckon P Kernan?
Quote from: Goats Do Shave on March 19, 2010, 10:27:48 AM
Quote from: mackers on March 19, 2010, 10:22:41 AM
GDS went through the probable match ups in the Down attack/ Armagh defence a few pages back, I'd say he's most of them right with the exception of the Finn Mo match up with Coulter. Looking at that Down line up, who will McCartan put on Stevie? I'm sure it's not going to be Dan McCartan, poor lad had a torrid time of it against Clarke in the Championship in 08.
You reckon P Kernan?
Yea, I'd give him a go at it anyway. Finn's doing well going forward but I'd worry about him and his tendency to foul. PK has had a few chances with mixed results, it's about time we find out whether he is up to it or not. It'd be a good test for him.
Quote from: Pearse og on March 18, 2010, 10:10:14 PM
Is there a bigger inter-county rivalry between the fans than Armagh/Down?
Obviously not on the field as Armagh win all the the time ;D
I'd imagine Dublin/Meath would be up there. Dublin haven't been beaten by them in a while either. This is a great thread, highly entertaining though. Hope ye meet in the league final and Mayo are there so we could see the venom spewed by both sets of fans!
Armagh unchanged (maybe):
Philip McEvoy
Andy Mallon
Brendan Donaghy
Paul Duffy
Paul Kernan
Ciaran McKeever
Finnian Moriarity
Ronan Austin
Kieran Toner
Joe Feeney
Aaron Kernan
Gareth Swift
Ryan Henderson
Steven McDonnell
Stefan Forker
http://www.armagh-gaa.com/Football/News/Armagh-team-to-play-Down.aspx
Got my 2 tickets last night so looking forward to the match now, everyone is expecting a cracker match but i reckon the opposite will happen. Both managers will be cautious and not wanting to loose this so i will be expecting a very defensive game...this should suit Armagh but I'm gonna sit on the fence here and call a draw...0-11 to 0-11 ;)
Heavy rain is forecast for Saturday. Not sure who it will suit.
Quote from: rory on March 19, 2010, 10:53:24 AM
Heavy rain is forecast for Saturday. Not sure who it will suit.
Supposed to be heavy through tonight, but to stop around midday tomorrow.
Heavy rain will suit those of us seated in the covered stand ;D
Match betting 10/11 Down 15/2 Draw and 11/10 Armagh
I'm with I'llDecide on this one, I reckon it's going to b a damp squib, realistically it's a league game with 2 points up for grabs, both managers won't want to lose but is a win worth all the associated risks??
I'd say if it's level with 5 minutes to go neither side will have the swingers to go for it
Quote from: T Fearon on March 19, 2010, 11:08:11 AM
Heavy rain will suit those of us seated in the covered stand ;D
Match betting 10/11 Down 15/2 Draw and 11/10 Armagh
The aristocrats will be nice and dry...wheres that betting? regardless of the quality, the rain will help make an entertaining and hopefully an epic derby for atmosphere
Dunno, I think (hope) it will live up to expectations. Massive crowd, floodlit atmosphere, Clarke v McKeever, the winner in pole position for promotion. Can't wait...
Quote from: Ulick on March 19, 2010, 11:17:58 AM
Dunno, I think (hope) it will live up to expectations. Massive crowd, floodlit atmosphere, Clarke v McKeever, the winner in pole position for promotion. Can't wait...
On this, unless Armagh take an unlikely hammering by about 20 points, both teams with still have promotion very much in their own hands regardless of the result.
I reckon the large crowd will inspire both sides and I've seen very few Armagh Down damp squibs in league or championship (though admittedly the one sided affair in 1999 came close).
Surely also O'Rourke is cast in the position of Jose Mourinho (Inter Milan V Chelsea) in that he will simply love to win this one to prove a point.
Yes, I will have a copy of the Times on hand to peruse prior to the thrown in and during the interval. After the encounter concludes, I will repair to an upmarket coffee house for a skinny latte and pear and avacado sandwich, and then journey back, chauffeur driven to my well heated abode, ignoring all vagrants, big issue sellers and anyone else outside the AB income bracket I might have the misfortune to encounter!
In otherwords, can people not take a fecking joke >:(
Hilarious jokes aside, where did you get those odds for the match?
is the match on tv?
down by 2
Those are Paddy Power's odds.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 19, 2010, 11:32:17 AM
I reckon the large crowd will inspire both sides and I've seen very few Armagh Down damp squibs in league or championship (though admittedly the one sided affair in 1999 came close).
Surely also O'Rourke is cast in the position of Jose Mourinho (Inter Milan V Chelsea) in that he will simply love to win this one to prove a point.
1991 was not just a damp squib it was a borefest of rank bad football
Mel Hughes in Portadown, son of the legendary Frank, brother of Gregory, Hugo and John,all constituents of the Hughes Bookmakers chain, prominent in both Newry and Warrenpoint.
Nora, quality wise,the football might have been bad in 1991, but it was by no means a damp squib. It was keenly contested, hard fought with the outcome in the melting pot right to the very end.
A damp squib is where both teams simply go through the motions or, contrary to expectations, one side romps to an easy victory
Quote from: norabeag on March 19, 2010, 12:19:28 PM
1991 was not just a damp squib it was a borefest of rank bad football
91 was a poor game, but 92 was worse. Down went to the Pathetic Grounds as reigning All Ireland champs. Armagh just couldn't raise their game for that one, though in fairness they were going through a barren patch that lasted for 118 years at the time. They couldn't even give the reigning champions a guard of honour for the game, so we kicked the round Armagh and got the respect we deserved that way. Then we have the 83 national league final were Armagh also failed to show up. The first meeting of these teams in a national final and big game nerves just got to the minnows. They still hadn't won a big game in Croke Park even though our association was about to celebrate its centenary.
Armagh were no match for the great Down teams until the end of the 1990s. Since then they have won the odd game here and there and have to be congratulated for winning their first national titles. Some people, especially the morbidly obese, would have you believe that football was only invented circa 1999, but most of us know better. Saturday evening should put right the wrongs of the last decade and send the buckfast brigade back across the Clanrye river in the same way that they have done for the best part of a century, with their tails firmly between their legs. Normality will return on Saturday night for the followers of the Red and Black. The game is worth more than the 2 league points on offer, it is about more than local bragging rights. This game will remind everyone there and those who will be listening in from home and abroad that Down are once again on the up.
There's never been much between Armagh and down. league or championship, no matter who is the perceived "better" is at the time.
Of course the game that bucks that trend is the 99 ulster final when an emerging armagh wiped the floor with down, ending petre McGrath's resign (pete didn't realise it for another while though).
That drubbing was in the early stages of armagh's current unbeaten run against down in national competitions. A run that must surey grate with the self styled aristocrats.
Quote from: downgirl on March 19, 2010, 09:41:41 AM
Is there any possibility of getting tickets outside the ground??
The Allianz GAA Football National League Division 2 game between Down & Armagh this Saturday (20th March) at 7:30pm is an all-ticket affair.
The stand is sold out but terrace tickets can be purchased from:
• Down GAA County Board, Pairc Esler, 46-48 Main Street, Castlewellan, Co Down, BT31 9DP
• Armagh GAA County Board, Athletic Grounds, Dalton Road, Armagh, BT60 4AE
or from the following outlets:
• Smyths Music, Newcastle
• Loko, Bangor
• Carlin Music, Newry
• Skelton Travel, Lurgan
• Mac's Music, Portadown
Terrace tickets are £10 for this fixture with juvenile tickets available at £4.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 19, 2010, 01:06:48 PM
Quote from: downgirl on March 19, 2010, 09:41:41 AM
Is there any possibility of getting tickets outside the ground??
The Allianz GAA Football National League Division 2 game between Down & Armagh this Saturday (20th March) at 7:30pm is an all-ticket affair.
The stand is sold out but terrace tickets can be purchased from:
• Down GAA County Board, Pairc Esler, 46-48 Main Street, Castlewellan, Co Down, BT31 9DP
• Armagh GAA County Board, Athletic Grounds, Dalton Road, Armagh, BT60 4AE
or from the following outlets:
• Smyths Music, Newcastle
• Loko, Bangor
• Carlin Music, Newry
• Skelton Travel, Lurgan
• Mac's Music, Portadown
Terrace tickets are £10 for this fixture with juvenile tickets available at £4.
Que?
Quote from: passedit on March 19, 2010, 01:17:08 PM
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 19, 2010, 01:06:48 PM
or from the following outlets:
• Smyths Music, Newcastle
• Loko, Bangor
• Carlin Music, Newry
• Skelton Travel, Lurgan
• Mac's Music, Portadown
Que?
Are they seriously selling them in Bangor, but not in Downpatrick?
Trev at the risk of a feud ban, do complete the tale. Did not Down, after their momentous league final victory over Armagh in 1983, not tamely bow out of Ulster that year to mighty Fermanagh? In 1992 after beating an Armagh team that accorded far too much respect to them, were they not hammered in the next round by Derry (after which Sam was hastily bubble wrapped and sent back to Dublin pronto)?
At the end of the day, Down have the same number of All Irelands as Cavan and one more than Wexford, and none of the three have been on the radar for years, apart from Wexford who made an appearance in the semi final in 2008..
Do not despair, but instead welcome Ulster's top GAA County in the last decade to Newry, do not dwell in the past, do not live on memories.
Tony - I am not trying to lengthen this discussion of past games unnecessarily, but all this banter between you and Trevor Hill reminded me of a most exciting end to a Down V Armagh Ulster final in 1961 when Armagh were up 7 points with 11 minutes to go and James McCartan pulled Down back into the match to win by a point! - Again, thanks for stirring the old memory cells
EXACTLY Tony ....last decade!!! That's the past as well! What serious achievements have been made in Armagh football since AI glory and winning national league in 2005??? Nothing - provincial success means nothing with regards AI nowadays....both teams are on a par-both playing second tier football and to be fair neither side are in Top 8 teams in Country
...and to sum up - You're shite, we're class (or vice versa)
The Allianz GAA Football National League continues this weekend with Round 5.
As you have heard the Down v Armagh game is an All-Ticket fixture in Newry, your Season Ticket is your ticket so please don't forget to bring it!
IMPORTANT
The Season Stile will be Stile 34 in Pairc Esler. The Stand is reserved seating so you will get your seat number as you walk through the stile. If you want to sit beside another Season ticket holder please walk through the stile together.
Best of luck to you and your county this weekend.
Tony and Trevor, you should enter the ground together.
ballela, congrats on avoiding senility, you must be at least 166 years of age!
I take the point about history etc, but I would venture to suggest that Down would give anything for an Ulster title right now (reduced in prestige such an accolade undoubtedly is) and Armagh's unprecedented success all occurred in the last 7 to 8 years and is still fresh in the memory as opposed to Down's which is dust laden in the archives. As Trevor Hill would say, thats ancient geography! :D
I would also venture that Down need to win tomorrow night much more than Armagh, for purely psychological reasons, its akin somewhat to the 2003 All Ireland Final which as Harte has often conceded,Tyrone needed to win much more than Armagh did, for psychological reasons.
Armaghniac, I think Trevor Hill will be changing his namde to Fiveways Roundabout (where at least 4 of the five routes lead into Armagh) after the game. He will also probably have a photo of this location as his avatar. ;D
There was me thinking things were bad between Tir Eoghain and Doire. Nothing compared to you boys! :D
Ach its once every 5 years scenario, with the following characteristics
1. Down look to be making a comeback
2. Armagh visit Newry
3. Another victory for the Orange men ensues
4. Reality Check taken and a therapeutic trek to Slieve Donard by all red and blacks.
5. Down change their manager
6. Back to step 1.
Next scheduled occurence in 2013
Allianz NFL Division 2
Down v Armagh, Newry, 7.30pm
Both sides are unchanged from their wins over Donegal and Kildare last weekend, and these Ulster neighbours have certainly been the form teams to date in Division 2.
Down's only slip-up came following a draw with Tipperary, while Armagh have gone unbeaten in their last three games having lost a Round 1 tie to Meath by a point.
This game should produce another close encounter with the added spice of Armagh manager Paddy O'Rourke facing his old charges. Ulster derbies are generally tight affairs – expect this to be another tight affair.
VERDICT – Draw
Other previews on
http://www.sportsnewsireland.com/2010/03/19/weekend-gaelic-football-previews-saturday-20th-march-sunday-21st-march/
Someone said to me that you can pay in at the gate? Any truth???
Weather should be OK
A generally cloudy breezy start to Saturday morning, with still some rain in places, mainly in the east and southeast. But brighter, drier weather in the northwest and west, will extend to all parts by early afternoon, with some sunny spell developing. Top temperatures reaching 8 to 12 degrees. Moderate to fresh north to northwesterly winds, will ease through the afternoon also.
Never before can I remember such an air of excitement or anticipation before a Down v. Armagh NFL game in the tail end of winter. It is only for 2 Division II points after all. Yet it is all ticket! There was less excitement when they last met in Divison I.
What is in the air?
Quote from: T Fearon on March 19, 2010, 03:12:26 PM
Armagh's unprecedented success all occurred in the last 7 to 8 years and is still fresh in the memory as opposed to Down's which is dust laden in the archives.
I used to have a goldfish like that, bought it at the Forkhill market, called it Tony.
QuoteWhat is in the air?
(http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/46745000/jpg/_46745759_rp0072875.jpg)
Some cracking posts in here for the rest of us. Particularly liked the swamp donkey and the happy motherfuckers day.
Armagh by two.
Quote from: western exile on March 19, 2010, 07:18:11 PM
Never before can I remember such an air of excitement or anticipation before a Down v. Armagh NFL game in the tail end of winter. It is only for 2 Division II points after all. Yet it is all ticket! There was less excitement when they last met in Divison I.
What is in the air?
For me its the changing of the guard.
I remember all to well the run up to the 99 final. Armagh had something about them that I certainly hadn't seen before, not even in `77. They looked like they could have the makings of a very good team. Down were in serious decline. Long story short Down got hammered and it was the start of a long road for Armagh that took them to the ultimate prize in 2002, but they really should have won at least one and maybe two more All Irelands. Joe Kernan famously said good teams win won, great teams win two. Armagh were so close to becoming a great team.
That team is gone. I think only Stevie remains, Clarke is injured. They have a few promising players and they aren't a bad team, but I think we are going to see a game that will set the tone for the next few years. I think Down are ready to come of age tomorrow night. It doesn't matter if it is a one point win or a cricket score, the result is all that matters and I simply cannot see Down losing this. They can slag off our defence all they want, but we are unbeaten in the league and the defence has coped very well. At midfield we have a great pairing in Ambi and King or should that be King Ambi. For me Kallum King is the Brian McGilligan of the partnership and Ambi the Tohill. Ambi will get the headlines, but King is a solid player, a steely player that Down have been missing for far too long. Up front we have the Clarke's, John is playing his best football to date ably assisted by Martin. There simply are not enough superlatives to describe this young man. He has it all. Everyone in the country just how good he is, so we sent him away to Oz to toughen him up. He left Australia with nothing to prove, he came home to play for Down. The rest of our forwards have little to prove, Coulter is among the best in the country on his day. McComiskey, Hughes and Kearney have all been effective at different times this year.
There has been plenty of talk about POR lately, first and foremost Paddy is not only a Down man, but a legend in the Mourne county. He has won it all and could be considered unlucky not to have won an Ulster title as manager in 2003, regardless of tomorrows result every one of us will wish Paddy well. Unlike a certain poster from Armagh we bear no mailice to any of our "exiles" no matter where they may be.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 19, 2010, 08:26:54 PM
Quote from: western exile on March 19, 2010, 07:18:11 PM
Never before can I remember such an air of excitement or anticipation before a Down v. Armagh NFL game in the tail end of winter. It is only for 2 Division II points after all. Yet it is all ticket! There was less excitement when they last met in Divison I.
What is in the air?
He has won it all and could be considered unlucky not to have won an Ulster title as manager in 2003, regardless of tomorrows result every one of us will wish Paddy well. Unlike a certain poster from Armagh we bear no mailice to any of our "exiles" no matter where they may be.
Trev, your surname's no misnomer - obviously derives from the moral high ground.
Trevor, I agree that we are on an upward curve, but tomorrow's game is a toss-up. Armagh lost their first game away to Meath by a point, after conceding two bad goals, and have since won three on the bounce. The reason that we have not beaten them in the league or championship for 15 years is that they have had stronger squads, which were fully focused and well managed. That does not change overnight, and their defence has a much more settled and experienced look than our own.
Having said that, we are in excellent shape and will be full of confidence after edging home in Donegal. You are right to highlight Kallum King as an unsung hero, and it was striking how quickly our midfield declined when he went off at HT against Tipperary. He is very strong, gets big tackles in and gives Ambrose the space to play, but he still needs to work on his pace and his overall fitness. If he continues to improve, James might have quite a problem when Dan returns.
However, there is no way today's Armagh can be compared to Down in 1999. We were made up then of key players who were approaching the end of the line and some youngsters who did sadly did not make the grade. If Brian Burns had not had a stormer at midfield, it could have been even worse for us in the Ulster final.
McDonnell is the only current Armagh player around the 30 mark, but is still their top scorer, and they have a hard core of others who have already impressed at county and college level. Tomorrow is a huge match, but both teams will be in with a decent shout of promotion regardless of the result.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 19, 2010, 12:39:31 PM
Nora, quality wise,the football might have been bad in 1991, but it was by no means a damp squib. It was keenly contested, hard fought with the outcome in the melting pot right to the very end.
A damp squib is where both teams simply go through the motions or, contrary to expectations, one side romps to an easy victory
Sorry for having an opinion ::)
Quote from: T Fearon on March 19, 2010, 02:07:54 PM
At the end of the day, Down have the same number of All Irelands as Cavan and one more than Wexford, and none of the three have been on the radar for years, apart from Wexford who made an appearance in the semi final in 2008..
15 years maybe, in fairness that's a long way off 117 years of hurt, depression, and slow sales of silver polish in Armagh City.
Quote from: down6061689194 on March 19, 2010, 09:32:16 PM
15 years maybe, in fairness that's a long way off 117 years of hurt, depression, and slow sales of silver polish in Armagh City.
:D :D :D
Ive said it before and I`ll say it after we beat them tomorrow night, Armagh have only won one All Ireland, no letter writing campaign to the Bele Tele will ever change that. Is it any wonder POG is such a miserable sod. One miserable, solitary All Ireland.
Alot of people are talking about who from Armagh is going to mark Marty Clarke but I am very confident that Ciaran McKeever will keep him quiet and McKeever is a beast of a man and should match Clarke physically.
On the other hand none of Down's backs are good enough to mark Steven McDonnell, who has had a field day v Down every time he has played them.
Far too much is being made of this match. I suppose its understandable given the management situation and the fact that both sides have had a few wins but I don't think you could describe this as a pivotal match for either side, bar the fact that its a local derby. Both teams look like they might be amongst the best in a poor enough division 2, both are trying to build sides with Down coming from a considerably lower base.
I'd be hopeful Armagh could win, if Ronan Clarke was playing and fully fit I'd be fairly confident we would. I don't think Down are anything like as good as their supporters / media seem to think but no doubt they're closer to us now than they had been for over a decade. But if Armagh were to lose I won't be panicking too much, to be honest O'Rourke's side have exceeded my expectations so far. The real tests for both sides will come later in the Summer.
Quote from: Puckoon on March 19, 2010, 07:40:18 PM
Some cracking posts in here for the rest of us. Particularly liked the swamp donkey and the happy motherfuckers day.
Armagh by two.
Down by three.
Tony, Wexford have 5 football AIs.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 19, 2010, 08:26:54 PM
Quote from: western exile on March 19, 2010, 07:18:11 PM
Never before can I remember such an air of excitement or anticipation before a Down v. Armagh NFL game in the tail end of winter. It is only for 2 Division II points after all. Yet it is all ticket! There was less excitement when they last met in Divison I.
What is in the air?
For me its the changing of the guard.
FFS not another one. I thought the 2008 ulster semi was the changing of that guard?
Quote from: ziggysego on March 19, 2010, 09:58:58 PM
Quote from: Puckoon on March 19, 2010, 07:40:18 PM
Some cracking posts in here for the rest of us. Particularly liked the swamp donkey and the happy motherfuckers day.
Armagh by two.
Down by three.
Down by five. ;)
Anyone know if the tickets for the stand are for allocated seats?
Every seat has a section, a row and an individual number. A terracing ticket allows you to stand where you like on the other three sides.
Looking forward to watching this on Setanta tomorrow night. Down will find it tough to break down the Armagh defence. Without Clarke Down have a good chance of limiting Armagh's scores to. Think it will be a good competitive game with little between them. Will be good to get a chance to see Clarke playing to.
I notice as it gets closer there's less talk from TH and Fearon of a fight. Are they both running scared? I think it's off. If they meet there'll be handshakes and smiles.
QuoteI notice as it gets closer there's less talk from TH and Fearon of a fight. Are they both running scared? I think it's off. If they meet there'll be handshakes and smiles.
I'd be very diappointed if TH doesnt at least physically threaten Fearon with a hotdog before being placated with the offer of a weekend for 2 in the Cosy Corner guest house in Larne that TF won in a some competition in the Newsletter.
They could both go and share a room. ;D
I had almost forgotten what it was like but ths game really has re-ignited the hatred between the 2 neighbours.
If I am being honest, wee James seems to have them fcukers back on the right track and they seem to have a decent squad.
Armagh are only marginally better than them IMHO and with Clarke missing tonight it is a flick of a coin.
Looking forward to tonight
The rivalry is keen-
In 53 we supported them
In 60 they supported us.61, a little less. 68 full on begrudgery.
In 77 we joined together.As usual ,only the premier county brought home the silverware , with POR at CHB and Ambrose senior at CHF
In 83 Ambrose destroyed that hallion Mc Kerr in the league final
In the 90s a sister of a prominent Ourma footballer told me that if Down were playing England, she would support England.So little support in 91 and none in 94.
In 2002, when football began,on the morning of the game I went in to say goodbye to my (then ) 8 year old daughter and told her that we had to support them.She said, and I quote, 'you don't know how hard that is for me'
I was really disappointed that we lost the USF in 2008 after doing the heavy lifting against Tyrone.Liam Doyle had just got injured before they got their goal and should have been off - Ronan Clarke was the difference that day but now we have two wonderful Clarkes and that will be the difference tonight.
I think a few of us are losing the run of ourselves on here with talking up the teams (especially Down). From a Mourne perspective id be more interested in our own team and how every individual performs, but for me the jury is still out on alot of the team.
I really couldnt give a fiddlers about what team Armagh field, you can be sure whoever it is, they will be extremely well motivated and prepared to sh*t all over Down at every opportunity. Armagh have a new team as such but they still have the winning mentality and attitude from previous years and although they havent the best footballers in the world Down would do well to treat them as a serious step-up from any game they have played this year.
In my opinion the result of this game will tell me alot about where Down are right now in terms of development. Id be expecting a Down win but only just.
Lets all hope a Referee's decision/performance doesnt ruin what could be an excellent game.
Quote from: under the bar on March 20, 2010, 12:52:48 AM
QuoteI notice as it gets closer there's less talk from TH and Fearon of a fight. Are they both running scared? I think it's off. If they meet there'll be handshakes and smiles.
I'd be very diappointed if TH doesnt at least physically threaten Fearon with a hotdog before being placated with the offer of a weekend for 2 in the Cosy Corner guest house in Larne that TF won in a some competition in the Newsletter.
Lets just say there have been a couple of approaches from a third party. There has been an offer of a dinner for two in Rices, a years free subscription to the Norn Iron supporters magazine or the lions share of any future win of the Gaelic Life Fantasy Football competition. All have been refused so far, but that weekend in Larne does sound tempting.
I`ve been in contact with Sean og during the week to see if we could arrange something as part of the half time entertainment. Sean og was up for it until he heard Fearons name mentioned. He said the only time he ever saw Fearon anywhere near Greenbank was for a game between Newry Colts and Dungannon Swifts reserves. Fearon was arrested that night for breach of a non molestation order that Harry Fay had taken against him a few years previously. Something to do with IFA/Linfield, Dungannon, Ken Magennis, the Free Masons and the News Letter.
The WBA would never allow the fight...it would be like throwing barry McGuigan in with Mike Tyson :D plus Fearon would talk his way out of it anyway :D :D :D
On serious note i put £20 on the draw
Quote from: illdecide on March 20, 2010, 10:59:10 AM
On serious note i put £20 on the draw
If Fearon is very long odds we could arrange for me to go down in the third. Split the winnings?
Is it possible to buy a ticket at the ground before the game? will it be a full house?
Quote from: stiffler on March 20, 2010, 11:51:22 AM
Is it possible to buy a ticket at the ground before the game? will it be a full house?
Contact the Down C.B. on 02843770880 to see if tickets will be on sale at the ground, I doubt it will be a full house but it will be close to it.
Quote from: JUst retired on March 20, 2010, 08:28:56 AM
They could both go and share a room. ;D
(http://media.canada.com/gallery/dose_nudity/041608naked_borat.jpg)
Tickets will be on sale at the ground from 5.30pm
Can someone post a link to a video stream if they find one......
Don't be mean, go and subscribe to Setanta!
Grand dry evening. Let battle commence!
Quote from: rory on March 20, 2010, 05:57:29 PM
Can someone post a link to a video stream if they find one......
google myp2p
then click on live sports
then try other sports and it might be there
tried looking there myself
http://www.myp2p.eu/competition.php?competitionid=315&part=sports&discipline=other
no luck
does anyone know if the game is on the radio or if i can get to see it anywhere on the net, i am in the US
Highlander - I just bought I for $19.99 on Setatant 1
Correction Setanata 1
God I'm so excited I couldn't get it right the second time either - Setanta 1
hi Ballela angel it saying i have to get it via satellite which i cant, were you able to get it online?
Bellela - angel i got it, thanks, hope we win now
Only have Setanta Ireland...gutted :( heard Paul McC isn't starting...tactical or injury??
Down 6 up after 5 mins.
http://is.gd/aQyGl
Armagh have been very poor so far. Martin Clarke pulling all the strings. 1-5 to 0-0 after 8 minutes
keep scores coming lads...cheers..any online tv links
McDonnell penalty. Forker pulled down. 1-5 to 1-0
Radio link
http://www.fivefm.co.uk/portal/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=155&Itemid=54 (http://www.fivefm.co.uk/portal/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=155&Itemid=54)
Quote from: downgirl on March 20, 2010, 07:35:45 PM
Only have Setanta Ireland...gutted :( heard Paul McC isn't starting...tactical or injury??
Injury
Down 1-5 Armagh 1-1
McDonnell free
Charlie Vernon in for Ryan Henderson. Doesn't seem to be any injury
Moriarty kicks point
John Clarke repsonds.
1-6 to 1-2
Martin Clarke off with injury I think. McGinn on for him
what happened to M Clarke?
Wasn't altogether clear what happened to him. Change happened off camera if I remember correctly.
McDonnell knocks over another Armagh right back in it. 1-6 to 1-3
Swift kicks another for Armagh.
1-6 to 1-4 to Down
Moriarty just been sent off. Second yellow
1-7 to 1-4 John Clarke kicks free
Moriarty off 2 yellows 1-7 1-4
Big Frank - Setanta 1 on the internet - Costs $19.99
Quote from: ballela-angel on March 20, 2010, 08:16:32 PM
Big Frank - Setanta 1 on the internet - Costs $19.99
must be a stream somewhere
Well I'm watching it free on eircom broadband if you have it.
Good game so far, we got a great start, lucky enough goal for us a bit of a kick in and hope, but then they got the same result with there pen.
M Clarke looked brilliant when he was on, we are really missing him, both in passing and point scoring, hope its not a serios injury
Armagh is unlucky to be down to 14, i think the ref is to quick with the cards tonight, but i suppose he is keeping a lid on a game that could possibly get nasty
Think our defense is a lot better, but the full back line while playing hard is still to small, wonder would L Doyle be an option there, has lost a bit of pace but still a greta fielder of the ball
Malachy Mackin in for Stefan Forker. Swift away into full forward line. Mackin to centre half and Vernon moved out to midfield.
McDonnell nabs first point of second half. 1-7 to 1-5
Quote from: Jinxy on March 20, 2010, 08:22:27 PM
Well I'm watching it free on eircom broadband if you have it.
can you post a link and I can check
Bit nippy now but the veggie soup was just the ticket. so sign of big tone in the stand. looks like mackin on n kernan moving into defense.
Maginn kicks points from play for Down. 1-8 to 1-5
Ciaran McKeever of injured. Ferris in for Armagh
Conor Laverty on for John Clarke - 47 mins gone
Ambrose Rogers kicks a point. 1-9 to 1-5
Seems like a decent game (on the radio anyway ;D)
1-10 to 1-5
The sending off has killed it somewhat. Some soft yellows dished out by Martin Sludden tonight.
Quote from: Midman on March 20, 2010, 08:41:04 PM
Seems like a decent game (on the radio anyway ;D)
ref not having a great game going by 10 yellows
Quote from: Square Ball on March 20, 2010, 08:27:04 PM
Quote from: Jinxy on March 20, 2010, 08:22:27 PM
Well I'm watching it free on eircom broadband if you have it.
can you post a link and I can check
http://setanta-video.eircom.net/eircom/channels/Live.aspx?rd2=1 (http://setanta-video.eircom.net/eircom/channels/Live.aspx?rd2=1)
Michael McNamee for Ronan Austin.
1-11 to 1-5
Mark Poland kicks his thrid of the game
1-12 to 1-5
Rogers kicks a fine free
Quote from: Jinxy on March 20, 2010, 08:46:20 PM
Quote from: Square Ball on March 20, 2010, 08:27:04 PM
Quote from: Jinxy on March 20, 2010, 08:22:27 PM
Well I'm watching it free on eircom broadband if you have it.
can you post a link and I can check
http://setanta-video.eircom.net/eircom/channels/Live.aspx?rd2=1 (http://setanta-video.eircom.net/eircom/channels/Live.aspx?rd2=1)
worth a try... but diddnt work
ten men booked in what was a clean game, Armagh have scored a solitary point in the second half, not close to good enough, that said this referee is a complete clampett.
Armagh cant afford to spot anyone a big lead, even the likes of Down, we were always chasing the game after that.
Armagh- Tony Kernan for Joe Feeney
Down- Aidan Brannigan for Kevin McKernan
Too easy for Down now
1-13 to 1-5 Dan Hughes
Swift score for Armagh.
1-12 to 1-6
McGovern for Kearney
Murtagh for Poland
Down far superior on the day, they ran us ragged with the extra man.
hard to understand why Armagh were not up for this, absolutely shocking performance from the ref and Armagh.
Highlights on Setanta Ireland now
Great to see Down can win without Dan, Paul and Marty...will hopefully silence a few people!
Down will win Ulster this year and who knows what else.
Sitting in traffic in greenbank but couldn't care less right now. Great performance. Did well to keep the discipline, poor referee.
Is there any level ciaran mckeever won't stoop to?
Quote from: behind the wire on March 20, 2010, 09:44:45 PM
Sitting in traffic in greenbank but couldn't care less right now. Great performance. Did well to keep the discipline, poor referee.
Is there any level ciaran mckeever won't stoop to?
What did he do was it something he did that injured Marty Clarke? Couldn't quite catch it from the commentary on the radio but he was being booed a lot when he was taken off?
Marty was given a bit of personal treatment by Paul keenan, he was down receiving treatment to injured ribs. Mckeever came and stood over him and as Clarke got up he hit him in the ribs. Marty had to go off shortly after.
It was bad but does not compare to Sean Ward stamping on Oisin's jaw in 2001.
Quote from: Farrandeelin on March 20, 2010, 09:32:29 PM
Down will win Ulster this year and who knows what else.
Lets not get carried away now Ted, sure its only a win against Arma. Things do look positive and the Trojan Donkey strategy seems to be working well.
Quote from: Pearse og on March 20, 2010, 09:56:13 PM
It was bad but does not compare to Sean Ward stamping on Oisin's jaw in 2001.
in reply to your question no it wasnt as bad as wards kick in 2001.
What does that have to do with mckeevers behaviour tonight?
I said it was bad, but I remember clearly that Wards stamp in 2001 was brushed under the carpet and was not mentioned in the media, just reminding all Down fans of what some of their own have done in the past before they start complaining about McKeever.
First & foremost great win by Down......few years ago we would've lost that game after Armagh closed the gap.
McKeever had no answer to Clarke, he got the run around & wasn't able to use his usual bully boy tactics to diminish Clarke's influence on the game so he had to resort to underhand tactics (same ones that resulted in him breaking Benny's hand)
Armagh were slow out of the blocks & seemed to spend more time trying to take boys out with third tackles & play the big fellas off the ball.
They have some fine footballers & initially were n top around the middle but Kalum King for all his critics upped the anti & tore them to shreds for the remainder of the game. He must've caught 6/7 great fetches & this provided the platform for a lot of Down's quick attacks.
Benny was causing serious problems for the full back lines & probably was starved of ball for too long of a period after halftime.
But as Armagh thought they were pegging Down back but they continuously seemed to have ball turned over & waste opportunities.
One point to note some very strange calls from the ref tonight ......McDonald rolled McArdle beautifully for a point in the first half .........Benny does same in second & gets blown up???
Also if linesman saw McKeever strike then surely its a red?......admittedly McKernan seemed to get away with similar in the 2nd half & also only got a yellow!
He also must've blown 6/7 times for what he deemed incorrect fist passes which seemed to be over fussy refereeing as this upset both sides.
Wee James definitely the happier manager, but Down must build on this & transfer this league form into Championship results
A poor attempt at excusing bad behavior. I think the fact that you had to go back 9 years to find an example says alot about your argument.
Disastrous start, you can't even give teams just out of the third division an 8 point start and expect to win, though we could have got back on level terms by half time if it weren't for Moriarity's ridiculous sending off.
Stew we actually managed two points in the second half (though we had enough of the ball to score a lot more but wasted it), but really the only part of the team that played anywhere near their ability was the fullback line.
Would have been an entirely different second half had we a full complement, but sure we wont begrudge Down their first victory over us since 1995. (Before Boyzone, Westlife,Princess Di's death etc)
Deserved standing ovation for the legendary Bull Mc Keever when he was subsituted in the second half,and you're right the referee was a complete tool. Then again he does come from Tyrone
That was fairly horrible to watch. The fundamental principle of Gaelic football, and sport in general, is that you have to match your opponents for heart and desire before you can expect to win anything. Armagh simply didn't do that tonight, they were out-fought by a Down team who seemed to want the win more. The sending-off was a hammer blow when it looked like developing into a great game. Didn't see the 2nd booking but the first was very harsh, thought the free should have been the other way. That said, these things happen in football and Down were much the better side over the 70 minutes.
Thought Kieran's clash with Clarke was a fairly harmless tap to the chest. Yellow card alright but hardly deserving of the vile abuse with rained down from the Down crowd in the stand. You see regularly see worse in matches every week.
Couldn't understand O'Rourke putting Vernon on to play full forward. Has he ever played there in his life? Either he's fit to be on in his proper position or he's not. There was very little sign of a gameplay from Armagh other than hoisting high balls reminiscint of Down's old tactics under our manager. You need a bit more guile to be successful in Gaelic football and the running game which Armagh had appearred to be developing was nowhere to be seen tonight.
Hopefully that result will be a shock to the system. A performance like that needs a reaction and at least they should be motivated to get redemption by winning their next two matches which should give us a chance to meet Down again in the final.
Some blow for Armagh. It's between them, Fermanagh and Cavan for the wooden spoon label in Ulster.
How is it a poor attempt?
Yes that incident happened nine years ago but there are other examples of dirty, cynical Down play such as wee James assaulting the Westmeath player.
I think Wards actions 9 years ago were alot worse than McKeevers, I do think that standing on someones jaws is a lot worse that a hit on the ribs.
Armagh are better than Antrim, and I would not classify Monaghan, Derry or Down above Armagh until they win some championship silverware.
Best team won Armagh management made
some poor calls but sending off was the game changer
what did he do
with Armagh down to 14 it allowed down to drop a
defender in front of stevie
young laverty came on and played well for down
but ffs if a game degenerates to the referee with his stupid pernickyness
being the
main talking point then the gaa may get used to smaller crowds
he spoiled the game
Tony, first of all, Up your hole.
Secondly, a fairly comprehensive victory over a second rate outfit with limited ambition.Sluden did give us a lot in the first 20 although 8 up after 8 , when youse had 15, puts paid to the inevitable 'we only had 14 'argument. He did well to spot the first yellow for Moriarity against Kearney ( one James would have been proud of) and I didn't see the second but was told it was deserved.
Thirdly, I thought we had strong performers in the half back line, Kalum King is my man for MF, Maginn and Lavery were excellent off the bench and the Clarkes ,Kearney,Poland and Benny superb.
In the same way it takes 20 to win a game with our Mc Iver inspired gameplan, it takes different men to rise to the challenge in different games, and 7 points did not flatter us.
Finally, in the last quarter, if Sluden hadn't penalised us 4 times for silly handpass infringements we would have won by 10/12 points.
So , off to Mullingar we go and our opponents go back to the drawing board.
A lot of flaws evident tonight. We conceded a terrible goal in the first minute (even worse than the early goal conceded in Navan). Why also is it the two corner forwards are always first to be hauled off? Also Malachy Mackin was dire when he came on, how many more chances does he deserve.
That said towards the end of the first half when we got the score back to 2 points, I was looking forward to a rip roaring second half, but the referee spoiled the game by sending Moriarity off unnecssarily.
Tony you weren't looking at too many when you were leaving with 5 to go in the game!
Load of shite.
Playing catch up from McEvoy's Heartyesque fcuk up. Can't afford to let any team run up an eight point lead, never mind a hyped up Down side on a roll. Did well to get back into it, but the sending off killed our chances and the game as a spectacle. What was it for, no one had a clue in the crowd? Ref definitely seemed like the officious sort who wasn't for letting anything go, maybe he was right to but it didn't help the game. In addition to their decent forwardline, Down have a good blanket defense defensive system and there are few teams that'll beat them easily. But we're no great barometer at this stage, so although they're moving in the right direction, talk of Ulster titles or anything else is a bit premature.
Even allowing for being a man down, we were very flat and unimaginative. Only McDonnell offered any scoring threat in the second half after the withdrawal of Henderson and Forker. The management did not come out well with these two changes. The introduction of Vernon stank of panic. Charlie wasn't fit to fart tonight and we were effectively playing with 13 men with him on the field. His move to midfield didn't help either as it took Austin, who'd been doing well, away from there. Although Mackin did alright, we needed Forker, or at least another forward on the pitch. We'd 5 or 6 midfielders and one FF after that change. It made no sense, we weren't doing too badly around the middle, but were struggling up front.
Still a solid shot at promotion, two wins should secure second spot, but a wee bit of a reality check for any that had allowed themselves to get carried away by the last three wins. We're still very much in the infancy of any revival.
But who gives a f**k about the league anyway.
Aidan I always leave my seat 5 minutes before the end, and watch the concluding moments from near the exit point.
Pity a potentially great game was spoiled tonight by an over fussy referee.
AFS, I agree with a lot of what you say and in hindisght we were lucky enough to come away from Portlaoise with a win, whereas we beat Westmeath and Kildare teams that threw in the towel far too easily.
But I would have loved to see how we would have panned out tonight with 15 men for the full 70 minutes, and I just hope this defeat does not have a prolonged psychological aftermath.
I don't undertsand taking off corner forwards when neither of them were getting any decent ball. Young Forker particularly must be disillusioned.
Not sure I'd want promotion to Division One next year. I doubt if we'd win a game and we could end up completely demoralised.
Thought also the obvious substitution wasn't made tonight.... Brian Mallon an experienced half forward who can score.
I think sending off was for a swinging elbow but I could be wrong
Total anti climax to game as Armagh were soooo poor in 2nd half
Apparantly marty clarkes ribs broke. Mckeever must be proud. What a dirty act it was.
Quote from: ardmhaca08 on March 20, 2010, 11:18:47 PM
Apparantly marty clarkes ribs broke. Mckeever must be proud. What a dirty act it was.
Would be amazed if that dig he hit him for the yellow card broke a rib. Must have been another incident.
Dunno maybe it was when mckeever stood on him? Had the kids with me tonight such a role model mckeever is.
Quote from: ardmhaca08 on March 20, 2010, 11:18:47 PM
Apparantly marty clarkes ribs broke. Mckeever must be proud. What a dirty act it was.
that's the thing, he probably is.
Quote from: ardmhaca08 on March 20, 2010, 11:26:21 PM
Dunno maybe it was when mckeever stood on him? Had the kids with me tonight such a role model mckeever is.
Stood on him? You're inventing things now. But sure when you're so intent on vilifying one man why bother with facts. Or may be the injury was just one of those unfortunate things that happen in football from time to time.
To be honest Armagh got what they deserved from that game, the fannying about in the first ten cost us dearly; the goal and a few soft as f**k frees should have been avoided. That said, Down were far more up for it, their forward line looked so much more dangerous than ours. Think O'Rourke made too many changes, bringing Vernon on was a waste of a substitute cos he did next to f.a when he came on. What did Finn Mo go for, was it two yellows?
Down fully deserved their win and no Armagh men can say any different, they were hungrier and first to every ball. When Armagh were attacking it was across the pitch with 10 passes and going no where fast, this was down to good defending by Down and good tactic's by the management.
As for Armagh I'm really disappointed with the decisions from the line tonight: taking Henderson off and replacing him with Vernon who wasn't fit and cannot play that position was madness. Don't wanna name players but there are a number of lads on the Armagh panel that just don't cut it, how many years is it gonna take people to realise that these lads are not county standard, very good club players these lads but not inter county.
When is Armagh gonna realise that the time for big strapping lads throughout you're team is gone (10 years ago) the game is all about speed and great agility not big Ogre's...really disappointed with Armagh tonight and was impressed with Down, they have speed and smart footballers in their team. Coulter looked sharp tonight and looked like he's shed a few pounds
Why is no armagh man mentioning the most obviously horrible management decision. Gareth Swift in the first half along with Kieran Toner was by far our best player. He had been instrumental in clawing back the 8 point lead to 3. Half time comes and he is switched to full forward. Because of his absence we are no longer able to win a ball around the middle and he doesent get a single touch. A horrrible decision by the management team only exacerbated by the removal of Forker for Mackin. Mackin has absolutely no football brain whose only talent is to solo the ball and then kick it blind. Forget about him he simply isnt good enough.
The Mc Keever discipline situation is reaching crisis point. He now seems to revel in trying to bully his direct opponent while not concentrating on playing football. The man has serious talent but is going to get banned soon so we may get used to being without him. Waving to he crowd while we are getting heavily defeated is also pathetic. Aaron Kernan is playing his way off the team. Non existant tonight. Lacks the physical strength needed for 11. Imagine what Graham Canty would do on him. Paul Kernan not good enough either. Terrible decision making on the ball while Danny Hughes was probably man of the match. Management are providing no protection to full back line who I thought did well in trying circumstances. Also what is the kickout stategy. Toner was amazing in first half. Then no ball kicked to him in second with Charlie Vernon playing while obviously unable to move.
Have to say all my previous optimism has evaporated. James Mc Cartan showed himself capable of setting a team out with a system and style which will prove hard to beat. Our strategy substitutions and system were an embarrassment. We are in big trouble and am not shy to say it.
Quote from: illdecide on March 20, 2010, 11:32:00 PM
When is Armagh gonna realise that the time for big strapping lads throughout you're team is gone (10 years ago) the game is all about speed and great agility not big Ogre's...really disappointed with Armagh tonight and was impressed with Down, they have speed and smart footballers in their team. Coulter looked sharp tonight and looked like he's shed a few pounds
O'Rourke seems intent on fielding as big and as physical a side as he possibly can. We started the second half with 3 midfielders in the forward line while Brian mallon sat on the bench for the full match and Kevin O'Rourke, one of our better forwards last year has been deemed not good enough for the squad. Madness.
Quote from: AFS on March 20, 2010, 10:46:21 PM
Load of shite.
Playing catch up from McEvoy's Heartyesque fcuk up. Can't afford to let any team run up an eight point lead, never mind a hyped up Down side on a roll. Did well to get back into it, but the sending off killed our chances and the game as a spectacle. What was it for, no one had a clue in the crowd? Ref definitely seemed like the officious sort who wasn't for letting anything go, maybe he was right to but it didn't help the game. In addition to their decent forwardline, Down have a good blanket defense defensive system and there are few teams that'll beat them easily. But we're no great barometer at this stage, so although they're moving in the right direction, talk of Ulster titles or anything else is a bit premature.
Even allowing for being a man down, we were very flat and unimaginative. Only McDonnell offered any scoring threat in the second half after the withdrawal of Henderson and Forker. The management did not come out well with these two changes. The introduction of Vernon stank of panic. Charlie wasn't fit to fart tonight and we were effectively playing with 13 men with him on the field. His move to midfield didn't help either as it took Austin, who'd been doing well, away from there. Although Mackin did alright, we needed Forker, or at least another forward on the pitch. We'd 5 or 6 midfielders and one FF after that change. It made no sense, we weren't doing too badly around the middle, but were struggling up front.
Still a solid shot at promotion, two wins should secure second spot, but a wee bit of a reality check for any that had allowed themselves to get carried away by the last three wins. We're still very much in the infancy of any revival.
But who gives a f**k about the league anyway.
::)
Sarcasm lad, sarcasm.
Quote from: ardmhaca08 on March 20, 2010, 11:26:21 PM
Dunno maybe it was when mckeever stood on him? Had the kids with me tonight such a role model mckeever is.
Says on Down thread that it was his hip...so I wouldn't be jumping to conclusions about what McKeever may or may not have done
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 20, 2010, 11:36:57 PM
Quote from: illdecide on March 20, 2010, 11:32:00 PM
When is Armagh gonna realise that the time for big strapping lads throughout you're team is gone (10 years ago) the game is all about speed and great agility not big Ogre's...really disappointed with Armagh tonight and was impressed with Down, they have speed and smart footballers in their team. Coulter looked sharp tonight and looked like he's shed a few pounds
O'Rourke seems intent on fielding as big and as physical a side as he possibly can. We started the second half with 3 midfielders in the forward line while Brian mallon sat on the bench for the full match and Kevin O'Rourke, one of our better forwards last year has been deemed not good enough for the squad. Madness.
You def need a couple of big men in your team (strong up the middle but these guys also need to be mobile and smart footballers...see Cork for examples) but all the rest of the team has to be set up for speed. I can only hope Stefan Forker was taken off for being injured and by the look on Ryan Henderson's face coming off at half time he was well f**ked off. Ronan Austin started off well and had 3 catches in the first 10 mins but afterwards was non existent, Feeney was not at the races either...O Rourke will have to have a long look in the mirror tonight and admit he got it wrong.
Great Down performance, in which every Man played his part. Mc Keever is an absolute disgrace, and should not be seen on any Football field for a long time, after his actions tonight. Armagh are a second rate outfit, reliant on too many old stalwarts whose best days are behind them. That along with a totally incompetent Manager, will ensure a short summer for them. As for Down, the future is Rosy, and the return of aristocratic football will be welcomed by all lovers of the game
Clarke hurt his hip!
BBC site:
Armagh boss Paddy O'Rourke did not make a happy return to Pairc Esler as Down moved close to securing NFL promotion by earning a comprehensive win.
Benny Coulter palmed to the net early on after a defensive mix-up and the Mournemen moved into a 1-5 to 0-0 lead.
Steven McDonnell's penalty got Armagh scoring and Down's lead was cut to 1-7 to 1-4 at the interval.
But Armagh's Finnian Moriarty had already been sent off and Down went on to totally dominate the second half.
Down got off to the perfect start as Coulter was gifted a goal in the opening minute after goalkeeper Philip McEvoy and Andy Mallon appeared to get in each other's way and allowed the Mayobridge man to palm into the empty net.
The goal sent Down confidence soaring and they were 1-5 to 0-0 ahead by the eighth minute as Martin Clarke pointed from frees and play and impressive midfielder Ambrose Rogers also got on the scoresheet.
However, Armagh replied with a goal of their own with McDonnell netting a penalty after Stefan Forker had been fouled.
Soon, there was a kick of the ball between the sides after McDonnell and Moriarty tagged on Armagh points.
Down were losing their way somewhat with the departure of the playmaking Martin Clarke causing their performance level to drop.
Clarke had been on the receiving end of a few uncompromising challenges both on and off the ball from Ciaran McKeever and was forced to depart with Conor Maginn coming on.
Armagh did cut the lead to 1-6 to 1-4 by the 32nd minute but the first half ended on a bad note for the Orchard men as Moriarty was dismissed after getting a second yellow card and John Clarke added a further Armagh point.
McDonnell's point at the start of the second period cut Down's lead to two but Armagh didn't score again until Gareth Swift's 68th-minute point.
With Rogers starting to dominate midfield, as Kieran Toner faded after a bright first half, Armagh wilted in the second half.
The introduction of Conor Laverty added further pep to the Down attack while Mark Poland, Daniel Hughes and Maginn were among the scorers.
One point from Down's final two games away to Westmeath and at home to Laois will be enough to guarantee promotion for James McCartan's side.
A good win for a Down team on an up curve, the steepness of that curve remains to be seen. Down still have some limited players, in size in particular, that would make me fear for their potential come the white heat of the Championship. One swallow does not make a summer.
Pangur that's the sort of post that gives genuine Down supporters a bad name!
McKeever is a nut on the field + clearly goes in for intimidation as part of his gameplan but what did he do that should have him banned for a long time?
Also what Armagh stalwarts are you talking about? I can only think of Stevie + McKeever
That's a really young Armagh team is it not
A huge dose of reality there boys. Down for me were well worth their 7 point victory and probably should have won it by a good deal more. They were much more organised in defence , had a good system of support play, knew how to funnell back and cut out the danger, marked very tight and were out in front for most of the balls in the forward line . Always had a player in support and played to a system. What chance McDonnell had when it was 15 aside evaporated when they were able to double mark him . In general our play was laboured and build up slow . One or two first time balls to McDonnell were reaping huge dividends but not nearly enough. I have said this and I am tired saying it. With only McDonnell and Clarke up front we are going nowhere. In this modern game it's not enough. I thought last week Forker had maybe stepped up to the plate but tonight he was withdrawn when realistically anyone of ten could have been called ashore. I would rather suffer with Forker and see what he has, than look at Malachy Mackin knowing exactly what he has .
Ronan Austin is as honest as the day is long but when he was switched out of the middle he might as well have been sitting beside me. His fumble at the beginning of the second half was crucial . We had just scored a point, the goal was on and somehow the ball ended up behind him .It was our only realistic goal chance . After that it was one-way traffic. In the first half the movement was very poor . Time and time again we were forced across field . There was no direct penetration at all .
The referee was poor but in no way did he cost us the game . The linesman spotted Finn Mo and it was he who related the incident to the ref . Being already booked it was a no-brainer . IFinn's first booking was just so silly , He had actually won the free but kicked out albeit rather harmlessly and got booked for it.
I do feel sorry for Joe Feeney . He did try his best got on the ball and to be fair his handling is quite good. He has a good turn but there for me it ends . He has no strength on the ball . In Tight situations he is to easily knocked of the ball and on one occassion where he tried to break thorugh was just swallowed up by a horde of red and black. Gareth swift in the first half did look to be playing with a good deal of style and was coping quite well , scored a nice point and was involved, In the second however he just faded(the swtch to full forward didnt help) like so many of his colleagues. I thought Andy got a roasting at times tonight particularly in the first half.. So to did Brendy Donaghy . John Clarke was out in front for quite a few balls but Brendy settled and played quite well to the finish.
The defence were under quite a bit of pressure throughout the whole game . Paul McEvoy's kick-outs were good but no the rest was poor. to be fair I felt he lost confidence after the goal and that spread throughtout.
I know this might seem unfair to him but I did feel hearty would have been the man to put in goals tonight . Paul lacked that bit of big time experience which the other paul has.. Horses for courses
I am and always have been a big fan of Ciaran mckeevers football ability but playing to the gallery aint his strong point. I do not condone some of his antics. enough said.
Did the match turn on the sending of? probably yes. We were making inroads into the Down defence slowly but surely but the sending of allowed them to cut of our scoring threat and so any chance of winning.
I thought K toner was immense and only for him we would have 1999 thrown back in our faces.. He needs a partner , most likely Charlie but tonight Charlie reminded me of lines in a song by BIlly Joel ( the piano man)
"Now John at the bar is a friend of mine and he gets me my drinks for free
He's quick with a joke and he'd light up your smoke but theres some place that he'd rather be ".
Where Charlie'S place was I dont know but it wasnt at pairc Eisler.and then at corner forward to the bargain .
No lads we lost both of and on the field. How much different from last Sunday where I went home with a skip in my step. Tonight that flat feeling whereby Cork Keery and Tyrone are as far away as a holiday for me in the seychelles .
Defeat by Down doesnt pain me that much as my rivalry is with another team in red but not black. It pains me though that we still havent come up with those forwards needed
Toner is going to be great . The defence will always be there and there abouts but it's scoring forwards that win matches. Down have those scoring forwards but not us . Our minor team last year had them . We need a few by May 16th or else I will be forced to take the big one on hols (to Warrenpoint .not the seychelles) for the summer as there may be feck all else to do
I feel many are getting carried away. Down started of very well and played the extra man superbly. However, for a large part of the first half they struggled. The sending off did them a huge favour. As the summer goes on teams will also become more aware of their blocking tactics and have a plan in place to play it. I counted four occasions when a Down man blocked the Armagh covering player. The ref did not see any. Mackin was ticked for a similar thing late on. Overall though I think Down are well on the way but doubt if that team tonight is good enough to go past an All Ireland quarter final. Would also say that, not going as far back as 2001, the two head high challenges under the stand on Brendan Donaghy were far worse than McKeevers 'punch' in Clarke's ribs. McKeever's fondness for the darker arts does not appeal I will agree.
Armagh are not as bad as they appeared tonight. Our defence is almost there and I thought Toner's workrate was immense. When on the half forward line Swift looked a player. Do not know if it was the case but Forker seemed to be limping when he walked to the bench after half time. As for management I think they have now used 28 players in the league. If they are using the league to see how players will do in the months, and even years, ahead then fair enough. If they thought the substitutions tonight would help win the match come summer then that is a bit more concerning.
Finally, if Croke Park think that the ref tonight had a good game then it really is the end of football. He wasn't as bad as Armagh though!
if as reported clarke hurt his hip how would the so called punch in the ribs from mc keever hurt his hip :'( :'( :'(
Quote from: fan01 on March 21, 2010, 12:59:24 AM
if as reported clarke hurt his hip how would the so called punch in the ribs from mc keever hurt his hip :'( :'( :'(
He has massive hands. :)
You know lads we are all entitled to our opinions and our prejudices but some times we have to face facts.
Marty Clake at senior inter-county level is really an unkown quantitiy but the hype and expectatatin is huge. But what we sa at Park Esler toight was a cynical exercise to take a potentionaly exciting player out of the game by every foul mean in the book.
How proud are Armagh folk tonight that Marty Clarke was taken to hospital with serious concerns about a spleen or kidney injury (thankfully all seems ok)? Is this what a young man with a serious professioal sporting career in Austtralian came back home for?
The fact of the matter is that he was assaulted (yes ASSAULTED) before the ball was thrown in, then assaulted agaian after receiving treatement for injury and, finally, struck agian when he was being substituted as a result of thiose assaults.. Is thsi our national game of which we are so proud?
So proud that thsi young exciting footballer was taken to hospital as the game was still goin on?
A big win for Down but I am not celebrating.
Marty Clarke has injured ribs due to that scum bag McKeever off the ball twice contary to other reports off a hip injury. Clarke was skinning him as was the whole Down attack in opening twenty minutes. I couldnt help but laugh at the stuipidy off the Cullyhanna so called hard man. Waving to the crowd after being subtituted in a game where his team where loosing heavily too. Childish behaviour and something you would never have seen Armagh greats like McGrane, McGeeney, Francie, the McEntees etc... at.
Another good win for us against a poor enough Orchard side. Apart from Brendy Donaghy, Stevie McDonnell, Kieran Toner and Gareth Swift no one else performed.
For Down i thought Rafferty was again outstanding with Colgan and Garvey also impressive in defence. Kallum King had his best game in a Down jersey while Ambrose had a bit off a mixed bag. Up front Danny Hughes was amazing and was my man off the match while Benny was brilliant at times. Marty Clarke was going well until he had to retire while Conor Laverty again made a telling impact when introduced.
Great league for us so far and the attendance at Pairc Esler was great to see. Fair play to wee James and co. With players like Paul McComiskey, Dan Gordon, Paul Murphy, Liam Doyle, Michael Walsh, Timmy Hanna, Declan Rooney and Aidan Carr to return we look to be in good shape.
That was one of the strangest Down/Armagh games I have ever seen. Down started like a train, a justified but totally unnecessary penalty allowed Armagh to get going when an humiliation looked on the cards, McKeever's antics turned the match back towards Down and pushed the ref into sending off Moriarty, and the second half died a death as we gave a master class in how to use the extra man and Armagh stopped competing.
We should not dwell unduly on McKeever's attempt to play the pantomime villain, but he had clearly hyped himself up and could not get close to Marty Clarke in the early stages. He swung a boot at a Down player who was collecting a breaking ball, and seemed to follow through after every tackle. When Clarke went down injured, although it was not certain whether it was ribs or hip, McKeever went over to see where the problem was, and then, in front of the main stand, throw his elbow into Clarke's side with full intent. The linesman saw it, and it should have been a straight red, although the ref settled for a yellow. McKeever's repeated waving to the crowd as he was hauled off before what looked like an inevitable second yellow after the break, was something which we seldom see in Gaelic games, but, for an obviously talented footballer, he is quite a piece of work.
Moriarty was caught in possession early on, again in front of the main stand where we were sitting, and appeared to pull Kearney's jersey towards him, but it seemed a harsh yellow and a free would have been sufficient, I did not see the incident which led to his second yellow, but the referee's attitude was probably a result of McKeever's previous carry-on, it practically finished the game as a contest and he should blame his team-mate.
Alder did well enough, and was penalised from throwing himself at McDonnell's feet when the free should probably have been the other way. He might have varied his kick-outs a little, but he should hold his place.
McCartan messed up for the penalty, as he should have won the ball in the first place and there was no need to bring down an opponent who had his back to goal. However, as usual, he steadied in the second half and was calm under pressure. Rafferty, apart from one misplaced pass, was as good as ever, but McArdle still looks like a stand-in full back. McDonnell went past him a couple of times alarmingly on limited supply, although McArdle showed up well whenever he got up the field.
Garvey was again our best defender, and a swap with McArdle is a definite option. He won the ball from his marker a couple of times, used it well and has an edge about his game. McKernan had his moments, and is close to nailing down his place, although, if he did throw an elbow for his yellow card, he needs to learn that lesson.
Colgan mixed the excellent with the semi-disastrous, and needs to work on his concentration. He misplaced at least three passes, but he did a fine sweeping job and has good anticipation and upper body strength. If Liam Doyle comes back, there may not be room for both of them in the same half back line.
There should be no doubt about the MoM. Kallum Kinng, after an uncertain start, was immense, took a series of clean catches, stopped the Armagh midfielders in their tracks and gave short simple passes on every opportunity. Ambrose, apart from a couple of handling errors, was also excellent, and killed Armagh off with his long-range free and point from play.
It was a huge frustration that Marty Clarke got injured when he seemed in the mood to rip Armagh apart. His point from out on the right wing was a gem, but it was more important that he understood what was at stake and was capable of deliveriing the goods on the big stage. Hopefully, he will be back well before the championship.
Kearney had a fine game, mostly off the ball, and worked very hard without dropping as deep as expected, while Hughes was brilliant in parts and would be even better if he could tackle effectively.
Poland has a football brain, and can take frees as well, although he is on the small side for his position, while John Clarke had an impressive first half but suffered when his brother went off.
Benny sometimes appeared to be carrying an injury but overall he terrified and bullied the opposition. His goal was the precisely the kind we used to concede , and it was his best ever display against Armagh.
Laverty was again an outstanding sub, showing for the ball, passing superbly and simply annoying every defender in sight. Maginn also looked the part, and covered a huge amount of ground, while Brannigan did nothing wrong.
We are very close to promotion now, against all expectations, and, if we can address a couple of flaws, a decent summer is a realistic prospect.
Mourne Rover. I was sitting in the stand myself and would agree totally about your comments on McKeever and Moriarity's first yellow. Would also note that McKeever started a shoving match at the start of the second half of the Armagh Meath game which I believe led to the lack of concentration in defence that led to a Meath goal which ultimately cost the game. On another forum during the week I suggested that McKeever should have been left at home for the match due to his atitude towards Down. The incidents I saw (may have been some i didn't) were not of sufficient force to badly injure someone however. Hope he can now just get on with football. He is some footballer when he concentrates on football. Hope the McKeever aspect did not colour the refs approach. He will always be a poor ref if it did.
[quoteref not having a great game going by 10 yellows
][/quote]
I love the way it's automatically the refs fault. Did you ever stop to think players might have had a hand in it????
If you were at the game you'd know 10 yellows was a joke
Regarding the McKeever / Clarke incident.
I didn't see what happened that caused the original injury but when Clarke was down receiving treatment McKeever was stood beside Clarke and the physio. McKeever did not stamp on Clarke at this time.
When they got up McKeever stupidly hit him a dig in the ribs (after seeing Clarke getting treatment on them). It wasn't an elbow or a full force strike so a yellow was probably fair enough.
When Clarke was then coming off the field McKeever was running over towards Clarke but another Down player intercepted McKeever's run and sheperded him away from Clarke. So some may guess what McKeever's intentions were but he never actually touched Clarke when he was leaving the pitch, contrary to what was written earlier in this thread.
As I said, in all of that I did not see what originally happened to cause the injury.
Not suprised by McKeevers behaviour last night. He's a good advertisment for GAA. Though I also thank him for his stupidity in 2005 when he fouled Stevie O'Neill and allowed Canavan to point the winner and put the final nail in Armaghs coffin as a footballing force.
Down to be the new emerging force in Ulster.
Quote from: amallon on March 20, 2010, 10:44:55 PM
Tony you weren't looking at too many when you were leaving with 5 to go in the game!
What is it they say about rats and sinking ships?
That may have only been a second division game last night, but Down are in a different league to Armagh. Its alright beating the likes of Donegal and Meath, but even the wee teams like Armagh have to be disposed off as well. Every aspect of last nights game has been covered over the last few pages, so I don't really need to add anything. One thing that I have to mention are the McKeever incidents. That kn**ker should not be allowed to wear a jersey of any kind, he is a disgrace to his county and the game itself, but from what I hear a credit to his club. A large section of the Armagh crowd stood up and applauded and cheered him off the field and he reacted to them like something you would see in Windsor Park. The true Armagh fan will still follow his team come what may, but we are as well off without these bandwagon supporters as we are without the likes of McKeever. Good riddance to both.
(http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/47508000/jpg/_47508564_411382.jpg)
Down Scorers.
B Coulter 1-1, M Poland 0-3 (2f),A Rodgers 0-3 (1f), J Clarke 0-2 (1f), M Clarke 0-2 (1f), C Maginn 0-1, D Hughes 0-1.
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 21, 2010, 11:06:44 AM
A large section of the Armagh crowd stood up and applauded and cheered him off the field and he reacted to them like something you would see in Windsor Park. The true Armagh fan will still follow his team come what may, but we are as well off without these bandwagon supporters as we are without the likes of McKeever. Good riddance to both.
Afraid you got it wrong Trevor.
When he was subbed the Down fiathful decided to boo McKeever off the field. McKeever was waving at them on his way of the field, which was a decent enough way to react to the booing I thought.
It was only after the panto-like booing that a proportion of Armagh fans gave him a standing ovation.
Trevor, did you and Tony bump into each other last night?
Every team needs, and their supporters admire, a player with balls, determination and a man who goes hard into tackles showing no fear to the opposition. Down have Garvey in this regard. Mc Keever has the potential to be this sort of player but instead seems to relish in being a cynical s**mbag, and he played a big part in ruining what should have been one the best contests in the entire league this year. Get well soon Marty!
Smokin Joe, I don't support booing amature players but last night was understandable
dodgy umpire (or anyone else), can you tell me what McKeever did to merit the panto-like booing?
It certainly wasn't for anything that I seen.
How did Clarke pick up the injury? It was definitely not due to the strike that earned McKeever a yellow card (as he hit him AFTER Clarke received treatment).
Is there any chance that the injury was picked up in a tackle during play?
Well, i suppose Marty (after three years AFL training and playing matches against far bigger and tougher opposition .. youtube Marty Clarke KO..) could have suffered the ribs injury through a tackle. But it most likely was the result of being consistently targeted by the hateful Mc Keever who was out to damage Marty even before the whistle went. I think it was Leo who asked the question earlier, how can true Armagh Gaels defend this?
Cannot defend some of McKeevers antics but if any Down man thinks some Down players did not step over the mark last night too they are mistaken in my opinion. They, however, may be a bit more cute.
As Down have never been the main rival to me in footballing terms (I cheered them on in 91 and 94) the one thing that disappointed me most about them is their use of the blanket defence and the way they play it. As an Armagh man I am well aware of its limitations come summer and it is not the type of football that Down usually play.
Typical bouts of over reaction from armaqh people, not a lot to get excited about fair enough, but there are boys here slating players (and lauding others) who had a polar opinion a few weeks ago. The start killed us, the sending of excaserbated the poor start and we couldn't recover. It could of course be that we have been found out but I would put it down to a bad day at the office until proven otherwise.
Management didn't cover themselves in glory, Charlie clearly wasn't fit enough, Mal Mackin :-\ Feeney doesn't cut it for me either and as I said 2 weeks ago AK is not a chf, never will be no matter how many journo's try to say otherwise and if he doesn't revert to 5 he shouldn't be on the team. Only positives I could see were Toner and Nippy. Mcevoy was poor too in nets.
Down are decent side on an upward curve but would anyone be genuinely afraid of meeting Down again in a league final or championship? I think not.
Quote from: dodgy umpire on March 21, 2010, 12:35:57 PM
Well, i suppose Marty (after three years AFL training and playing matches against far bigger and tougher opposition .. youtube Marty Clarke KO..) could have suffered the ribs injury through a tackle. But it most likely was the result of being consistently targeted by the hateful Mc Keever who was out to damage Marty even before the whistle went. I think it was Leo who asked the question earlier, how can true Armagh Gaels defend this?
dodgy umpire I had assumed that seeing you were calling McKeever a "cynical sc**bag" that you had actually seen him doing something as opposed to just surmising that based on the fact that Clarke somehow picked up an injury.
As I repeatedly said on this thread, I didn't see how Clarke picked up the injury, but in the absence of anyone else knowing how the injury was picked up perhaps we can go easy on the cucifixion of Ciaran McKeever.
Quote from: dodgy umpire on March 21, 2010, 12:35:57 PM
Well, i suppose Marty (after three years AFL training and playing matches against far bigger and tougher opposition .. youtube Marty Clarke KO..) could have suffered the ribs injury through a tackle. But it most likely was the result of being consistently targeted by the hateful Mc Keever who was out to damage Marty even before the whistle went. I think it was Leo who asked the question earlier, how can true Armagh Gaels defend this?
So basically what you're saying is that you don't know, but you're perfectly happen to slander and vilify an amateur footballer behind an anonymous username on an internet forum based on what you think might have happened?
Glad to see Armagh got what they deserved in Pairc Esler last night, some of the crap written on here by the Armagh faithful makes the victory that little bit sweeter & as for thon tr@@p McKeever, what more would you expect from a pig other than a grunt.
Quote from: mournerambler on March 21, 2010, 02:48:15 PM
Glad to see Armagh got what they deserved in Pairc Esler last night, some of the crap written on here by the Armagh faithful makes the victory that little bit sweeter & as for thon tr@@p McKeever, what more would you expect from a pig other than a grunt.
Subjecting players to personal attacks like this one and the one by Trevor Hill has no place on a GAA website; maybe you should post on OWC or some similiar site.
Incidentally, would either of you have the balls to call Ciaran McKeever a pig or a kn**ker to his face?
Getting back to the match, Armagh can have no excuses; out-played and out-thought on the field and on the line. When O'Rourke was appointed team manager, I was always worried about our first meeting with Down.
Quote from: Sandy Hill on March 21, 2010, 03:02:36 PM
Quote from: mournerambler on March 21, 2010, 02:48:15 PM
Glad to see Armagh got what they deserved in Pairc Esler last night, some of the crap written on here by the Armagh faithful makes the victory that little bit sweeter & as for thon tr@@p McKeever, what more would you expect from a pig other than a grunt.
Subjecting players to personal attacks like this one and the one by Trevor Hill has no place on a GAA website; maybe you should post on OWC or some similiar site.
Incidentally, would either of you have the balls to call Ciaran McKeever a pig or a kn**ker to his face?Getting back to the match, Armagh can have no excuses; out-played and out-thought on the field and on the line. When O'Rourke was appointed team manager, I was always worried about our first meeting with Down.
Subjecting players to bully boy tactics on the field of play has no place on a GAA field & btw this is not a GAA website, it is a discussion forum based mostly on GAA activities.
Not sure why it's that important for you to know if i'd say that to McKeever face to face but for what it's worth, yes I would, I don't see why talented footballers like him, McMenamin from Tyrone is another that springs to mind, have to resort to the sort of hardman tactics we see them use in nearly every game they play in, now that is something there is no place for in GAA Sandy Hill!
Quote from: mournerambler on March 21, 2010, 03:34:34 PM
Quote from: Sandy Hill on March 21, 2010, 03:02:36 PM
Quote from: mournerambler on March 21, 2010, 02:48:15 PM
Glad to see Armagh got what they deserved in Pairc Esler last night, some of the crap written on here by the Armagh faithful makes the victory that little bit sweeter & as for thon tr@@p McKeever, what more would you expect from a pig other than a grunt.
Subjecting players to personal attacks like this one and the one by Trevor Hill has no place on a GAA website; maybe you should post on OWC or some similiar site.
Incidentally, would either of you have the balls to call Ciaran McKeever a pig or a kn**ker to his face?Getting back to the match, Armagh can have no excuses; out-played and out-thought on the field and on the line. When O'Rourke was appointed team manager, I was always worried about our first meeting with Down.
Subjecting players to bully boy tactics on the field of play has no place on a GAA field & btw this is not a GAA website, it is a discussion forum based mostly on GAA activities.Not sure why it's that important for you to know if i'd say that to McKeever face to face but for what it's worth, yes I would, I don't see why talented footballers like him, McMenamin from Tyrone is another that springs to mind, have to resort to the sort of hardman tactics we see them use in nearly every game they play in, now that is something there is no place for in GAA Sandy Hill!
??? ???
Down's No 12, Carney?, should have walked for his attempted strike with the elbow on Finian Moriarty!
It's hard to take positives from last night's game but I thought that the performances from following players gives something to work on - Mallon, Donaghy, Duffy, McKeever(apart from his shenanigans), Moriarty, Toner(Armagh's MOTM?), Swift, McDonnell and Forker(why was he taken off?) and I'd still persist a while longer with Henderson who shouldn't have been taken off either.
Some Down supporters letting themselves down here. Big day for them, their team puts in a fine performances, beating their fiercest rivals for the first time in a generation to continue their upwards curve. Despite this, some seem fixated on thinking up novel ways to abuse an amateur sportsman from the cowardly comforts of anonymity. Says a lot about the character of a person when these are the things he chooses to focus on.
Quote from: Archie Mitchell on March 21, 2010, 10:29:15 AM
Not suprised by McKeevers behaviour last night. He's a good advertisment for GAA. Though I also thank him for his stupidity in 2005 when he fouled Stevie O'Neill and allowed Canavan to point the winner and put the final nail in Armaghs coffin as a footballing force.
Down to be the new emerging force in Ulster.
i really doubt that to be honest...also on the clarke scenario some people on this forum must think he was down in austrailia for a holiday id say he got hit harder in any training session down under than he did last night...all players are involved in off the ball contact so it is under to label mckeever as the only culprit
Quote from: mournerambler on March 21, 2010, 02:48:15 PM
Glad to see Armagh got what they deserved in Pairc Esler last night, some of the crap written on here by the Armagh faithful makes the victory that little bit sweeter & as for thon tr@@p McKeever, what more would you expect from a pig other than a grunt.
mckeever is a genuine, good hard hitting player. he can take as much as he gives. i don't think there is any need in calling mckeever all these name. it a total disgrace so get into your own pig sty and grunt away yourself.
down players need to also take a reality check, they are NO angels..
Quote from: AFS on March 21, 2010, 04:05:08 PM
Some Down supporters letting themselves down here. Big day for them, their team puts in a fine performances, beating their fiercest rivals for the first time in a generation to continue their upwards curve. Despite this, some seem fixated on thinking up novel ways to abuse an amateur sportsman from the cowardly comforts of anonymity. Says a lot about the character of a person when these are the things he chooses to focus on.
x2
Not like me to be defending a Cullyhanna man but some of the shite being spouted here by the aristocrats really puts things into perspective. kn**ker, sc**bag, tr**p; have you's any grace in victory at all? ::) (which BTW you were full value for; by far the superior team) I also wonder can any of you actually speak with authority and highlight precisely the incident where McKeever actually broke Clarke's ribs?
Quote from: Smokin Joe on March 21, 2010, 12:57:29 PM
Quote from: dodgy umpire on March 21, 2010, 12:35:57 PM
Well, i suppose Marty (after three years AFL training and playing matches against far bigger and tougher opposition .. youtube Marty Clarke KO..) could have suffered the ribs injury through a tackle. But it most likely was the result of being consistently targeted by the hateful Mc Keever who was out to damage Marty even before the whistle went. I think it was Leo who asked the question earlier, how can true Armagh Gaels defend this?
dodgy umpire I had assumed that seeing you were calling McKeever a "cynical sc**bag" that you had actually seen him doing something as opposed to just surmising that based on the fact that Clarke somehow picked up an injury.
As I repeatedly said on this thread, I didn't see how Clarke picked up the injury, but in the absence of anyone else knowing how the injury was picked up perhaps we can go easy on the cucifixion of Ciaran McKeever.
Ok, if you want the details, Clarke was down on the floor being treated by the physio, McKeever went up to him and stood over him while he was receiving attention. When Clarke got back up McKeever immediatly targeted his ribs. That is cynical
it takes two to tango. wise-up, good-luck hope you's go on ahead and win division 2. it will be short lived..
Quote from: fitzroyalty on March 21, 2010, 04:27:12 PM
Quote from: AFS on March 21, 2010, 04:05:08 PM
Some Down supporters letting themselves down here. Big day for them, their team puts in a fine performances, beating their fiercest rivals for the first time in a generation to continue their upwards curve. Despite this, some seem fixated on thinking up novel ways to abuse an amateur sportsman from the cowardly comforts of anonymity. Says a lot about the character of a person when these are the things he chooses to focus on.
x2
Not like me to be defending a Cullyhanna man but some of the shite being spouted here by the aristocrats really puts things into perspective. kn**ker, sc**bag, tr**p; have you's any grace in victory at all? ::) (which BTW you were full value for; by far the superior team) I also wonder can any of you actually speak with authority and highlight precisely the incident where McKeever actually broke Clarke's ribs?
Fitz you are absolutely right, it was an armagh half forward who done the damage when Clarke & him both clashed.
The incident involving McKeever & Clarke while he got treatment wasn't the reason he had to go off, it was from the clash as per above.
Quote from: Pangurban on March 20, 2010, 11:55:23 PM
Great Down performance, in which every Man played his part. Mc Keever is an absolute disgrace, and should not be seen on any Football field for a long time, after his actions tonight. Armagh are a second rate outfit, reliant on too many old stalwarts whose best days are behind them. That along with a totally incompetent Manager, will ensure a short summer for them. As for Down, the future is Rosy, and the return of aristocratic football will be welcomed by all lovers of the game
elaborate..
Clarke's ribs/chest werent 100% going into the game last night. He was involved in a collision early on in play and thus had to get treated. The constant niggling and odd rabbit punch didnt help but id doubt it broke any bones. He was taken to hospital as a cautionary measure there and then as unseen internal injuries can be dangerous and it was best to get checked out.
Mc Keever is a fine footballer when he wants to be but has to be said that he lets his team down when he plays the panto villain and loses the run of himself. Have no idea what he was trying to achieve last night but his head certainly wasnt in playing football, if ye were his team-mate or manager you would have to question the mentality of the guy.
On the game itself and from a Down perspective i would be very pleased at the final result and performance overall. I thought the referee was quite fussy but he was for both teams and was generally in control of the game. The sending off definitely had a bearing on the result but sometimes decisions like that go for ye, other days against ye. I did think that an Armagh man would walk sooner or later for numerous personal fouls.
Armagh are not as bad a team as some would have you believe but i do think they have a few problems. Their manager looked completely clueless at times and id definitely question sending on a clearly unfit Charlie Voronin and a few of his other substitutions and switches.
A good result for Down and we keep moving forward.
Theres no way the dig mckeever hit clarke in front of the stand broke his ribs, definitely from an earlier incident.
nevertheless down supporters are well entitled to describe mckeever as a tr**p or a sc**bag. i could add a few more but won't bother, enough has been said already. and i dont think the fact that he is an amateur sportsman has anything to do with it. there are unsavoury incidents in games all the time, no one denies this. but anyone who stands over their opponent as they are being treated by a doctor and hits them the second they get to their feet cannot be defended. that sort of thing is up there with hitting someone in the groin in the annals of trampish behaviour.
anyone defending mckeever in this instance for any reason needs their head looked at. had a down man carried out a similar action i would have no hesitation to criticise and definitely wouldnt be attempting to make excuses.
the fact that some armagh posters are countering with allegations that down players are no angels are having a laugh. no one is saying they are angels but i cant think of one incident from last night that would even be on the same scale as mckeever.
Quote from: Sandy Hill on March 21, 2010, 03:56:45 PM
Quote from: mournerambler on March 21, 2010, 03:34:34 PM
Quote from: Sandy Hill on March 21, 2010, 03:02:36 PM
Quote from: mournerambler on March 21, 2010, 02:48:15 PM
Glad to see Armagh got what they deserved in Pairc Esler last night, some of the crap written on here by the Armagh faithful makes the victory that little bit sweeter & as for thon tr@@p McKeever, what more would you expect from a pig other than a grunt.
Subjecting players to personal attacks like this one and the one by Trevor Hill has no place on a GAA website; maybe you should post on OWC or some similiar site.
Incidentally, would either of you have the balls to call Ciaran McKeever a pig or a kn**ker to his face?Getting back to the match, Armagh can have no excuses; out-played and out-thought on the field and on the line. When O'Rourke was appointed team manager, I was always worried about our first meeting with Down.
Subjecting players to bully boy tactics on the field of play has no place on a GAA field & btw this is not a GAA website, it is a discussion forum based mostly on GAA activities.Not sure why it's that important for you to know if i'd say that to McKeever face to face but for what it's worth, yes I would, I don't see why talented footballers like him, McMenamin from Tyrone is another that springs to mind, have to resort to the sort of hardman tactics we see them use in nearly every game they play in, now that is something there is no place for in GAA Sandy Hill!
??? ???
Down's No 12, Carney?, should have walked for his attempted strike with the elbow on Finian Moriarty!
It's hard to take positives from last night's game but I thought that the performances from following players gives something to work on - Mallon, Donaghy, Duffy, McKeever(apart from his shenanigans), Moriarty, Toner(Armagh's MOTM?), Swift, McDonnell and Forker(why was he taken off?) and I'd still persist a while longer with Henderson who shouldn't have been taken off either.
Here's a few links to GAA websites Sandy Hill, sorry for not making myself clear ;)
http://www.gaa.ie/
http://www.armagh-gaa.com/Home.aspx
http://www.downgaa.net/
I think we need to be careful with the name calling of McKeever as there is a danger of building up a cult figure with a status undeserving of the guy. He couldn't handle Clarke, period.
" we need a few Bellya's to come on here and show them a thing or two " was one of the better shouts from an Armagh man near me.
Never thought I'd agree with so many Down fans...
btw how did the trevor and tony meeting go?
Lads, lets all get real. Although a traditional local darby with all the added fervour that brings, last night was only a Div 2 NL game. Nothing more, nothing less.
The McKeever type things happen and no amount of bitching on this forum will change that - these things are best left to the authorities.
As a Down man I am elated that we have punctuated a too long run of defeats to our nearest rivals but lets keep our feet on the ground. Also most Arma comments here have acknowledged Down's superiority last night, and I agree with those who ask where has Down's ability to win/lose gracefully gone?
For Downmen last night sees a continuation of the positive development under this new management, although admittedly I doubted the management selection when first announced, but it remains to be seen if it will be carried through to the championship.
A question for Down fans - are we in danger of being promoted to Div1 too soon for our own good?
Once I realised Martin Sludden was refereeing, I decided to try and make a few quid off the boys in the pub. I offered even money on the number of bookings. I went for more than 9.5 bookings and am now two and a half score the richer.
Ta for that Martin.
Quote from: bennydorano on March 21, 2010, 12:51:29 PM
Down are decent side on an upward curve but would anyone be genuinely afraid of meeting Down again in a league final or championship? I think not.
Obviously a seven point hammering and Down playing keep ball for the last twenty minutes wasn't enough for you.
Quote from: AFS on March 21, 2010, 04:05:08 PM
Some Down supporters letting themselves down here. Big day for them, their team puts in a fine performances, beating their fiercest rivals for the first time in a generation to continue their upwards curve. Despite this, some seem fixated on thinking up novel ways to abuse an amateur sportsman from the cowardly comforts of anonymity. Says a lot about the character of a person when these are the things he chooses to focus on.
Obviously the behaviour of this amatuer "sportsman" is completely lost on you and many of your compatriots.
Quote from: In the Onion Bag on March 21, 2010, 08:09:43 PM
Lads, lets all get real. Although a traditional local darby with all the added fervour that brings, last night was only a Div 2 NL game. Nothing more, nothing less.
The McKeever type things happen and no amount of bitching on this forum will change that - these things are best left to the authorities.
As a Down man I am elated that we have punctuated a too long run of defeats to our nearest rivals but lets keep our feet on the ground. Also most Arma comments here have acknowledged Down's superiority last night, and I agree with those who ask where has Down's ability to win/lose gracefully gone?
For Downmen last night sees a continuation of the positive development under this new management, although admittedly I doubted the management selection when first announced, but it remains to be seen if it will be carried through to the championship.
A question for Down fans - are we in danger of being promoted to Div1 too soon for our own good?
Down football can only improve by playing top flight teams in preparation for the Championship. Consider having Kerry at Pairc Esler in March
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 21, 2010, 08:41:08 PM
Quote from: AFS on March 21, 2010, 04:05:08 PM
Some Down supporters letting themselves down here. Big day for them, their team puts in a fine performances, beating their fiercest rivals for the first time in a generation to continue their upwards curve. Despite this, some seem fixated on thinking up novel ways to abuse an amateur sportsman from the cowardly comforts of anonymity. Says a lot about the character of a person when these are the things he chooses to focus on.
Obviously the behaviour of this amatuer "sportsman" is completely lost on you and many of your compatriots.
If you get your kicks from hurling volleys of abuse at a man with no recourse for defense then fire away. Suppose it makes a change from abusing fellow posters and their family.
Quote from: bennydorano on March 21, 2010, 12:51:29 PM
Down are decent side on an upward curve but would anyone be genuinely afraid of meeting Down again in a league final or championship? I think not.
Agreed. Armagh with 15 men including Ronan Clarke should be beating that Down side.
I hope the Armagh management take stock of last night. A seven point defeat at the hands of a team that couldn't even win the third division last year, and was defeated by Wicklow in the Championship is truly shameful and is right up there with the defeat by Fermanagh in the AI Quarter Final (thats the last 8 of the Championship for all Down supporters by the way), in terms of shame and disgrace.
Its better a lesson was learn't against a lesser side in the league than against a big side oin the Championship without scope for rectification.
As for young Clarke, well at least he has a full set of teeth to-day which is more than can be said of other so called Down legendary forwards after being marked by teak tough Armagh defenders.
Consider with Amazement all the events that have occurred since Down last defeated Armagh prior to last night... 9/11, Katie Price lost her virginity, Simon Cowell and X Factor, Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern's premierships, George W Bush, Take That split and reform etc etc
Anybody know the attendance from the game?
some crowd at it!
Quote from: T Fearon on March 21, 2010, 09:38:51 PM
I hope the Armagh management take stock of last night. A seven point defeat at the hands of a team that couldn't even win the third division last year, and was defeated by Wicklow in the Championship is truly shameful and is right up there with the defeat by Fermanagh in the AI Quarter Final (thats the last 8 of the Championship for all Down supporters by the way), in terms of shame and disgrace.
Its better a lesson was learn't against a lesser side in the league than against a big side oin the Championship without scope for rectification.
As for young Clarke, well at least he has a full set of teeth to-day which is more than can be said of other so called Down legendary forwards after being marked by teak tough Armagh defenders.
Consider with Amazement all the events that have occurred since Down last defeated Armagh prior to last night... 9/11, Katie Price lost her virginity, Simon Cowell and X Factor, Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern's premierships, George W Bush, Take That split and reform etc etc
:D..que the dogs abuse for this one Tone!
Bejayus, I think Antrim would fancy themselves against either Down or Armagh. And after watching Galway beat Tyrone, I'm pretty sure the Sam Maguire will be staying in Kerry or just popping over to Cork.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 21, 2010, 09:38:51 PM
I hope the Armagh management take stock of last night. A seven point defeat at the hands of a team that couldn't even win the third division last year, and was defeated by Wicklow in the Championship is truly shameful and is right up there with the defeat by Fermanagh in the AI Quarter Final (thats the last 8 of the Championship for all Down supporters by the way), in terms of shame and disgrace.
Its better a lesson was learn't against a lesser side in the league than against a big side oin the Championship without scope for rectification.
As for young Clarke, well at least he has a full set of teeth to-day which is more than can be said of other so called Down legendary forwards after being marked by teak tough Armagh defenders.
Consider with Amazement all the events that have occurred since Down last defeated Armagh prior to last night... 9/11, Katie Price lost her virginity, Simon Cowell and X Factor, Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern's premierships, George W Bush, Take That split and reform etc etc
Get over it. Yous are a very average side and are on the road to know where. You continue to bring up the past, if Down fans where to bring up and compare things off the past we could go on all night. Id much rather be in Downs position than that off Armaghs at present.
As a neutral at the game last night I couldn't believe how poor Armagh were whilst Down looked a well drilled outfit under McCartan who to date hasn't exactly been thriving in management. I know Armagh have went backwards in the last few years but your reliance on Stevie is nearly on par with Derry and Paddy Bradley and there isn't a plan B. Ronan saviour Clarke and McDonnell aren't going to win games on their own and in comparison to Armagh squads in the past decade this one is pretty poor.
Down on the otherhand are going in the other direction with some excellent forwards and if they can keep Coulter fit, Clarke injury free (yes it was a dirty dig on him) and McComiskey to hit form then they have ample scoring forwards.
If I were a betting man and I am, I'd wager Down to go further than Armagh in this years championship.
That may well be the case, none of us are expecting too much from Armagh for a year or two, but Stevie and Ronan Clarke have something Benny Coulter will never have, an All Ireland Senior medal.
At the end of the day this
Down side is vastly more experienced than the current Armagh side, yet where it not for terrible start and Moriarity's ridiculous dismissal I believe Armagh would have gone close to winning.
I would credit Mc Ivor more than Mc Cartan with Down's current good form, though it will undoubtedly prove a false dawn as the win against Tyrone proved in 2008.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 21, 2010, 10:05:23 PM
Down side is vastly more experienced than the current Armagh side, yet where it not for terrible start and Moriarity's ridiculous dismissal I believe Armagh would have gone close to winning.
I would credit Mc Ivor more than Mc Cartan with Down's current good form, though it will undoubtedly prove a false dawn as the win against Tyrone proved in 2008.
And if my granny had had a set of b***s yawn yawn yawn
You're a very bitter man.
For the record though it wasn't a terrible start. The vast majority of people in Pairc Esler thought it was a wonderful start ;)
didn't get to the match had to resort to the radio {bbc} the whole second half the was only one team in it. but I've been reading this thread from the beginning and there has been definite smugness on the orange side of the fence from the very start. there has never been more than the kick of a ball between the two sides, sure we've had success and so have down. so i don't know where the massive confidence was coming from. listening to the match there was one glaring fact none of the kernans are county players! Arron was the pick of them and hes dissappeared up his own you know what. I've know doubt that at training they work hard but their inability to move the ball QUICKLY AND ACCURATLY is starving our forwards of ball winning opportunities, think back to the days when Andy mccann, geezer and keiran hughes and how they raced up the wings and gave good diagonal ball to the forwards or even kicked a point or two. these lads are getting caught in possession or are messing about til all the oppositions defenders have set up. all our forwards can score but they need quality ball. its not happening if we had things like playercam these guys wouldn't get on. as for mckeever hes a good player but he loves the rough stuff the rest of the armagh simply aren't up for it and are obviously getting sidetracked by his misplaced aggression. if he wants to impress anyone keep his man scoreless and limit his influence thats his job but do it clean- thats impressive
Quote from: norabeag on March 21, 2010, 10:54:34 PM
Quote from: T Fearon on March 21, 2010, 10:05:23 PM
Down side is vastly more experienced than the current Armagh side, yet where it not for terrible start and Moriarity's ridiculous dismissal I believe Armagh would have gone close to winning.
I would credit Mc Ivor more than Mc Cartan with Down's current good form, though it will undoubtedly prove a false dawn as the win against Tyrone proved in 2008.
And if my granny had had a set of b***s yawn yawn yawn
You're a very bitter man.
For the record though it wasn't a terrible start. The vast majority of people in Pairc Esler thought it was a wonderful start ;)
Let him rant on. And the rest off Armagh too and their one all ireland.
your a busy guy Trev, hope this stuff doesn't come back to bite you in the ASS :D
Was it yourself sitting behind me last night Trevor,or maybe just a few in front, or ????? By the tone of your posts you would fit the bill,some distasteful stuff there,it is still only a game!
Quote from: lawnseed on March 21, 2010, 10:59:46 PM
didn't get to the match had to resort to the radio {bbc} the whole second half the was only one team in it. but I've been reading this thread from the beginning and there has been definite smugness on the orange side of the fence from the very start. there has never been more than the kick of a ball between the two sides, sure we've had success and so have down. so i don't know where the massive confidence was coming from. listening to the match there was one glaring fact none of the kernans are county players! Arron was the pick of them and hes dissappeared up his own you know what. I've know doubt that at training they work hard but their inability to move the ball QUICKLY AND ACCURATLY is starving our forwards of ball winning opportunities, think back to the days when Andy mccann, geezer and keiran hughes and how they raced up the wings and gave good diagonal ball to the forwards or even kicked a point or two. these lads are getting caught in possession or are messing about til all the oppositions defenders have set up. all our forwards can score but they need quality ball. its not happening if we had things like playercam these guys wouldn't get on. as for mckeever hes a good player but he loves the rough stuff the rest of the armagh simply aren't up for it and are obviously getting sidetracked by his misplaced aggression. if he wants to impress anyone keep his man scoreless and limit his influence thats his job but do it clean- thats impressive
Good post. Mckeever should forget about waving to the fans/opposition fans and get on with playing football.
Do not be too despondent. In spite of turning in our worst performance since a hammering in Cavan in the league around the mid noughties (which did us feck all harm or Cavan feck all good the same summer), consider the fact that we outscored Down from the tenth minute to the end of the game (which unbelievably included only 2 points in the entire second half), and for the best part of that period we only had 14 men.
I also think that the delayed start (when Down couldn't even produce a properly inflated ball in two attemps,and someone had to run across to the O'Neills shop to buy one) disrupted our concentration and led to the nightmare opening.
Blips like these happen so I wouldn't get overly concerned, though still the players should be hurting at a seven point defeat by a team just up from Division 3 as runners up and exited the Championship to Wicklow last summer
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 09:14:13 AM
Do not be too despondent. In spite of turning in our worst performance since a hammering in Cavan in the league around the mid noughties (which did us feck all harm or Cavan feck all good the same summer), consider the fact that we outscored Down from the tenth minute to the end of the game (which unbelievably included only 2 points in the entire second half), and for the best part of that period we only had 14 men.
I also think that the delayed start (when Down couldn't even produce a properly inflated ball in two attemps,and someone had to run across to the O'Neills shop to buy one) disrupted our concentration and led to the nightmare opening.
Blips like these happen so I wouldn't get overly concerned, though still the players should be hurting at a seven point defeat by a team just up from Division 3 as runners up and exited the Championship to Wicklow last summer
The match started dead on 7 30pm. The bad start was due to individual errors; goalkeeping and some ridiculous frees including lifting the ball off the ground with nobody challenging whatsoever.
TAM, but the amateurish failure to produce a proper ball could have disrupted concentration. FFS you wouldn't see that in an Armagh ACL 4th Division game. Third rate preparation, for their biggst home game in years, by a third rate county.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 09:23:28 AM
TAM, but the amateurish failure to produce a proper ball could have disrupted concentration. FFS you wouldn't see that in an Armagh ACL 4th Division game. Third rate preparation, for their biggst home game in years, by a third rate county.
FFS Tony i know you're a wind up merchant but FFS just say the truth...we were stuffed by a better Down team in every department incluing the line. Who gives a F**k who beat Down last year in the championship or what division they WERE in the fact of the matter is their a 2nd division team and soon to be div 1 team who played us off the park. I know we didn't perform to the best of our abilities and started slow but that's not Downs fault it's Armaghs.
The only thing i don't agree with is the personal abuse of players but sometimes it's hard to defend it ???
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 09:23:28 AM
TAM, but the amateurish failure to produce a proper ball could have disrupted concentration. FFS you wouldn't see that in an Armagh ACL 4th Division game. Third rate preparation, for their biggst home game in years, by a third rate county.
Was only the biggest game since the Tipp game and at this moment our biggest home game coming up is the Laois game. All a work in progress but going nicely all the same
with regard to proper balls, Tony, thats exactly what you are continually talking
having watched the game again, i would have to congratulate DOWN on their secomd half performance, all players stepped up to the plate, the last 20 minutes from Down were excellent with regard to ball retention. a major step forward from last year
Armagh on the other hand were extremely poor and disjointed, keeper was poor and management were indecisive with switches in the defence, in the second half Down cotrolled the midfield which again was due in part to the poor kickouts from the keeper, half forward line were atrocious all through the game, AK too ponderous and far too many cross field balls, when the ball was put in accurately damage was done, it is essential that we get Clarke back ( he was doing weights with dyas and laverty in canal court on saturday under the gaze of mc gurn )
But the fact is that from the tenth minute onwards, we outscored Down by a point, with only 14 men for the best part, so things need to be put in perspective. There's no doubt in my mind that had Moriarity not been sent off (and for what?) we would have won this game, the whole momentum was with us, Down were crapping themselves and ready to fold (Like they alwas do under pressure). As it was we were deflated and Down were able to double mark Stevie with the spare man, and Stevie was the best player on the field last Saturday night, until this happened.
Dont get me wrong, I was as annoyed as anyone by the result, but on reflection it was just a bad refereeing decision that cost us the game. Thats not to say we can't and need to play a lot better, but I wouldn't have any fear of meeting Down in the Championship this summer.
Tony Fearon is the Malachy Mackin of the forum - one awful delivery after another, even your fellow Armagh men are on your back now.
This hilarious thread is just like saturdays match all over again. Where I was standing sections of the crowd in the last ten minutes were cheering every dazzling hand pass by the mighty men from mourne whilst those in orange (with arses spilling out of shorts) were huffing and puffing like a pub team with no belief and void of any talent - apart from the ageing Stevie.
Yes this treads just like Saturday night with Tony and his mates trying to win the ball back with every pathetic post - I am pissing myself here. Keep her goin boys (the Armagh ones that is).
I am just pointing out that in spite of our worst performance in years, and with only 14 men, we outscored Down from the tenth minute onwards, with only 14 men, and having to substitute our best defender early due to the risk of his dismissal from a refereeing imbecile.
Not one Armagh player did himself justice on Saturday night, imagine what would have happened if we'd played well and with 15 men for the entire game?.
Listen boys Saturday nite was a very valuable lesson for the future of Armagh. We have learned for definite who can cut it and who cant. McEvoy is doggy, could someone not go to Mckinney and get him back. Full back line are lethal just need more protection. Finn Mo and Paul Kernan are very limited need wing half backs who are flyin and good on the ball. Need to get Dyas back and playing, will make massive difference in terms of attacking from half back line. Toner is fine Austin nowhere near it. Vernon wasn't fi. Lavery was miss too will have a big championhip for Armagh this year. Feeney tries hard but no scoring treat not good enough. Malachy Mackin not good enough. Arron Kernan needs more chances at chf. Need Clarke back, and need Jamie Clarke in squad. He knows were goal are and has speed. Swift limited so is Mickey McNamee. What's wrong with Brian Mallon? Management were terrible on line. Only left one scoring forward on field when we were behind. Brutal!
Quote from: tevez on March 22, 2010, 10:18:42 AM
Listen boys Saturday nite was a very valuable lesson for the future of Armagh. We have learned for definite who can cut it and who cant. McEvoy is doggy, could someone not go to Mckinney and get him back. Full back line are lethal just need more protection. Finn Mo and Paul Kernan are very limited need wing half backs who are flyin and good on the ball. Need to get Dyas back and playing, will make massive difference in terms of attacking from half back line. Toner is fine Austin nowhere near it. Vernon wasn't fi. Lavery was miss too will have a big championhip for Armagh this year. Feeney tries hard but no scoring treat not good enough. Malachy Mackin not good enough. Arron Kernan needs more chances at chf. Need Clarke back, and need Jamie Clarke in squad. He knows were goal are and has speed. Swift limited so is Mickey McNamee. What's wrong with Brian Mallon? Management were terrible on line. Only left one scoring forward on field when we were behind. Brutal!
Correct
Quote from: Joe Umbrella (hey) on March 22, 2010, 10:12:24 AM
Where I was standing sections of the crowd in the last ten minutes were cheering every dazzling hand pass by the mighty men from mourne
Derry fans in the past decade have had a habit of doing this in the odd game where they comfortably got the better of Tyrone. Generally it wasn't too long until their got their comeuppance.
Yeah,and they were at it when they beat us in Celtic Park last time out.
In fairness Tyrone supporters also do it and it's a thing i don't like to see from GAA people.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 10:06:06 AM
But the fact is that from the tenth minute onwards, we outscored Down by a point, with only 14 men for the best part, so things need to be put in perspective. There's no doubt in my mind that had Moriarity not been sent off (and for what?) we would have won this game, the whole momentum was with us, Down were crapping themselves and ready to fold (Like they alwas do under pressure). As it was we were deflated and Down were able to double mark Stevie with the spare man, and Stevie was the best player on the field last Saturday night, until this happened.
Dont get me wrong, I was as annoyed as anyone by the result, but on reflection it was just a bad refereeing decision that cost us the game. Thats not to say we can't and need to play a lot better, but I wouldn't have any fear of meeting Down in the Championship this summer.
But they didn't Tony, thats why we are laughing at you this mornning.
Through history Down's success is monumental in comparison to Armaghs (lack of) achievements.
And as it stands today, this history is irrelevant anyhow as Down find themselves in a position of superiority again with a 7 point hammering of Armagh on saturday night.
Quote from: tevez on March 22, 2010, 10:18:42 AM
Listen boys Saturday nite was a very valuable lesson for the future of Armagh. We have learned for definite who can cut it and who cant. McEvoy is doggy, could someone not go to Mckinney and get him back. Full back line are lethal just need more protection. Finn Mo and Paul Kernan are very limited need wing half backs who are flyin and good on the ball. Need to get Dyas back and playing, will make massive difference in terms of attacking from half back line. Toner is fine Austin nowhere near it. Vernon wasn't fi. Lavery was miss too will have a big championhip for Armagh this year. Feeney tries hard but no scoring treat not good enough. Malachy Mackin not good enough. Arron Kernan needs more chances at chf. Need Clarke back, and need Jamie Clarke in squad. He knows were goal are and has speed. Swift limited so is Mickey McNamee. What's wrong with Brian Mallon? Management were terrible on line. Only left one scoring forward on field when we were behind. Brutal!
Good post. Only thing id disagree with is on Swift. While not a fan in the past i was very impressed sat night. It was only when the management made their crazy half time switches that he went out of the game. Would Tony Fearon please stop posting. He is embarrassing every genuine Armagh fan on this site.
Will the CCCC be looking into the antics of a South Armagh man on Saturday evening?
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 10:35:08 AM
Will the CCCC be looking into the antics of a South Armagh man on Saturday evening?
Which events?
Quote from: illdecide on March 22, 2010, 10:20:03 AM
Quote from: tevez on March 22, 2010, 10:18:42 AM
Listen boys Saturday nite was a very valuable lesson for the future of Armagh. We have learned for definite who can cut it and who cant. McEvoy is doggy, could someone not go to Mckinney and get him back. Full back line are lethal just need more protection. Finn Mo and Paul Kernan are very limited need wing half backs who are flyin and good on the ball. Need to get Dyas back and playing, will make massive difference in terms of attacking from half back line. Toner is fine Austin nowhere near it. Vernon wasn't fi. Lavery was miss too will have a big championhip for Armagh this year. Feeney tries hard but no scoring treat not good enough. Malachy Mackin not good enough. Arron Kernan needs more chances at chf. Need Clarke back, and need Jamie Clarke in squad. He knows were goal are and has speed. Swift limited so is Mickey McNamee. What's wrong with Brian Mallon? Management were terrible on line. Only left one scoring forward on field when we were behind. Brutal!
Correct
Except for the bit about lavery...
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 22, 2010, 10:20:41 AM
Quote from: Joe Umbrella (hey) on March 22, 2010, 10:12:24 AM
Where I was standing sections of the crowd in the last ten minutes were cheering every dazzling hand pass by the mighty men from mourne
Derry fans in the past decade have had a habit of doing this in the odd game where they comfortably got the better of Tyrone. Generally it wasn't too long until their got their comeuppance.
Who cares about Derry or Tyone for that matter, just you worry about your own county. Lets face it Saturday's thumping has given you plenty to worry about.
You really have to pity Fearon, its alright taking a hand out of him, which is all too easy, but he simply cannot see the wood for the trees. Let him call us runners up from Division 3, let him mention Wicklow even lat him say that Armagh outscored Down in the last 60 minutes of the game. What tinkywinky fails to realise is that this is not some silly Spurs game on Sky Sports. These silly statistics mean nothing, the only statistic that matters is the final score and getting 2 points. We wont harp on about Armagh not scoring for 32 minutes in the second half, or the fact that the game was basically a carbon copy of last years Kerry Dublin game were a first minute goal meant that it was all over bar the shouting. I would be much obliged if no one would tell tony that 2 yellows equal a red card in Gaelic football and that is why they ended up with 14 men, please do not remind him that McKeever should have had a straight red for assaulting Marvellous Martin Clarke. Down lost their shape after Martin had to go off and if we had been playing against a decent team or an Armagh team from the last 10 years we may have been in for a torrid time, but the current team just aren't up to the job. Down could afford to give time to a few players who may not see much game time for the rest of the year on Saturday night so easy was their cause, but don't tell that to Tony, it will only make an already bad day worse.
While Tinkywinky may not have covered himself in glory over the last 2 days, does he ever? Many of the Armagh posters have taken their defeat well and can admit that they were beaten by a better team on the day. We have had to endure defeats at the hands of Armagh for more than a decade, the tables had to turn sometime. They will turn again the other way at some stage too, no team has a monopoly. Hopefully our paths will cross again soon, you brought an atmosphere and a crowd to Pairc Esler that no one else can and it was appreciated that the vast majority of you stayed on to the end. Some of you even came in to the club for a few pints afterwards and there was a good bit of friendly banter, while others took solice in a bucket of chicken and a hasty retreat up the Point Rd.
An Dun 1-13 Ard Mhacha 1-6
First of all i would like to congratulate the mourne men for the work that has been put into getting the ground in good shape, the lights, the stand, the pitch were all fantastic.
On the game itself, i was bitterly disappointed leaving the grounds, not so much about getting beat, but the manner in which Armagh lay down and took it. there was no fight or grit to get thmeselves pulled back into it.
my reading into the whole thing was very simple, we are one midfileder and 4-5 forwards short of a team, Toner worked really hard and done well in the 1st half but i said to the boys there is no way he will keep this up for the full game and i was right. there was no communication, 2-3 men going for the one ball. (Prime example the goal)
Aaron Kernan is not a CHF and never will be, Feeney needs a big massive set of Wing Mirrors, every time the ball came near him he couldnt wait to get rid of it.
I thought Henderson and forker were unlucky to be taken off, POR could have tried something else like moving forker or Henderson out out and take Feeny off, or try swift in on the sqaure but like someone else has already stated the CF's were sacrafised again.
and WTF was mc keever doing waving to the crowd whilst going off, you would think we were the team that was 7-8 points up.
A lot of work to be done and not an awful lot of time to do it, the attacking / midfield sectors are worrying. we need forwards that can take scores,
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 22, 2010, 10:59:27 AM
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 10:35:08 AM
Will the CCCC be looking into the antics of a South Armagh man on Saturday evening?
Would this be the UFO on the Warrenpoint Rd about 20.55 on Saturday? Police received reports that an Unidentified Fat Object was speeding in the Direction of Kilmorey Street some 15 minutes before the game ended. The Unidentified Fat Object was being trailed by a Swamp Donkey. The police helicopter lost sight of the culprits in the vicinity of Kentucky Fried Chicken on Bridge Street. Police are also trying to trace the owner of 2 Armagh season tickets found lying in a puddle of grease and chicken bones. No chips have been retrieved as yet.
lol-no, im talking about the antics mckeever was at. thuggish to say the least.
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 11:03:07 AM
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 22, 2010, 10:59:27 AM
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 10:35:08 AM
Will the CCCC be looking into the antics of a South Armagh man on Saturday evening?
Would this be the UFO on the Warrenpoint Rd about 20.55 on Saturday? Police received reports that an Unidentified Fat Object was speeding in the Direction of Kilmorey Street some 15 minutes before the game ended. The Unidentified Fat Object was being trailed by a Swamp Donkey. The police helicopter lost sight of the culprits in the vicinity of Kentucky Fried Chicken on Bridge Street. Police are also trying to trace the owner of 2 Armagh season tickets found lying in a puddle of grease and chicken bones. No chips have been retrieved as yet.
lol-no, im talking about the antics mckeever was at. thuggish to say the least.
McKeever is as much to be pitied than laughed at, a bit like Fearon really. What would you expect from either, at least McKeever has the excuse of coming from Cullyhanna, he knows no better. Fearon should have learned some decency having spent so much time working and now living in county Down.
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 11:03:07 AM
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 22, 2010, 10:59:27 AM
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 10:35:08 AM
Will the CCCC be looking into the antics of a South Armagh man on Saturday evening?
Would this be the UFO on the Warrenpoint Rd about 20.55 on Saturday? Police received reports that an Unidentified Fat Object was speeding in the Direction of Kilmorey Street some 15 minutes before the game ended. The Unidentified Fat Object was being trailed by a Swamp Donkey. The police helicopter lost sight of the culprits in the vicinity of Kentucky Fried Chicken on Bridge Street. Police are also trying to trace the owner of 2 Armagh season tickets found lying in a puddle of grease and chicken bones. No chips have been retrieved as yet.
lol-no, im talking about the antics mckeever was at. thuggish to say the least.
Couldnt really be bothered pulling through pages of posts here, what exactly has Mc Keever supposed to have done coz i could see what happened from where i was
Its getting tiring now Trevor Hill, and im a Down man. Ye wanna abuse the idiot then send him a few private messages. Can we not stick to the title of the thread.
McKeever seems intent on creating a 'Francie' like myth about himself, when frankly (should that be francely) he is not in the big mans league.
Mc Keever rightly responded to the adulation of his adoring fans (including myself), on their feet in the main stand. I wish more players did this, it shows they care and value their fans.
Too much negativity from Armagh fans here. The team is a work in progress and while there are lessons to be learned there is no need for widespread panic. We are not as good as the home wins against Kildare and Westmeath would suggest nor as bad as the defeat on Saturday night either (I still maintain had we not had Mo sent off, things could well have been a lot different).
Put it behind us and move on. Down were bound to beat us one day
ffs mc keever did nothing wrong save for becoming involved with the crowd, gaa is a physical game
move on from it, POR and the rest of aramagh`s management team and squadhave a big weekend ahead of themselves because the jury is out on a lot of players and mentors
hearty should get his chance again, half forward line should be radically altered, i would take stephen harold from cruppen onto the panel as he adds more than malachy o rourke,
hearty
a mallon, donaghy, duffy
mc keever vernon, ak
toner laverty
Forker,bmallon, swift
mc donnell, henderson, jamie clarke( if aramgh out of u-21s) otherwise another
assuming dyas and clarke still injured
The team i would like to see
Hearty (Ive seen enough of Mc Evoy, so Hearty is the obvious choice)
Mallon
Donaghy
Duffy
Dyas
Mc Keever
A Kernan
Toner
Vernon
Swift
Mallon
forker
Mc Donnell
R Clarke
J Clarke
Did the TV coverage show any incidents involving McKeever and Clarke, I've it Sky+ed but haven't faced up to watching it yet? I'm assuming comments like these, from those not in attendance on Saturday night, are inspired by video evidence rather than some of the hysterical hearsay by overprotective partisan supporters here and elsewhere.
Quote from: Doogie Browser on March 22, 2010, 11:16:23 AM
McKeever seems intent on creating a 'Francie' like myth about himself, when frankly (should that be francely) he is not in the big mans league.
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 10:35:08 AM
Will the CCCC be looking into the antics of a South Armagh man on Saturday evening?
Too many Armagh fans it seems are fickle and can't see beyond one game. Remember Hearty's howler in Navan? It was even worse than Mc Evoy's.
Bascially the team that started last Saturday night have served us well up to this, and deserve a chance to redeem themselves, both individually and collectively.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 11:18:09 AM
Mc Keever rightly responded to the adulation of his adoring fans (including myself), on their feet in the main stand. I wish more players did this, it shows they care and value their fans.
Too much negativity from Armagh fans here. The team is a work in progress and while there are lessons to be learned there is no need for widespread panic. We are not as good as the home wins against Kildare and Westmeath would suggest nor as bad as the defeat on Saturday night either (I still maintain had we not had Mo sent off, things could well have been a lot different).
Put it behind us and move on. Down were bound to beat us one day
McKeever is a great player - one of the best defenders in Ireland without a doubt.
But his reaction to coming off shows he clearly loves himself. Francie, Geezer nor the McEntees would have done this, which is why they were admired and envied throughout Ireland. They played the game with massive committment and a great attitude to winning, they would rather die than come off the pitch beaten.
McKeever let his management and teammates down by waving to the crowd. All his ' amateur dramatic' close attention to Marty Clarke was also done in front of the stand in a manner of nothing but a show off. He put his ego ahead of winning and ahead of his team mates and real fans. The only ones standing and clapping for him were band wagon jumpers who probably won't see another match all year.
Quote from: AFS on March 22, 2010, 11:43:10 AM
Did the TV coverage show any incidents involving McKeever and Clarke, I've it Sky+ed but haven't faced up to watching it yet? I'm assuming comments like these, from those not in attendance on Saturday night, are inspired by video evidence rather than some of the hysterical hearsay by overprotective partisan supporters here and elsewhere.
I think hysterical hearsay is the stock-in-trade of most of the posters on this thread. Caught the highlights last night and the only bit of violent behaviour shown was an attempted elbow by a Down man.
Some of the posts here would protray that it was a dirty game, it wasnt a dirty game at all, although the Yellow card count might say otherwise, Sludden got carried away with his book.
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 22, 2010, 11:54:07 AM
Quote from: AFS on March 22, 2010, 11:43:10 AM
Did the TV coverage show any incidents involving McKeever and Clarke, I've it Sky+ed but haven't faced up to watching it yet? I'm assuming comments like these, from those not in attendance on Saturday night, are inspired by video evidence rather than some of the hysterical hearsay by overprotective partisan supporters here and elsewhere.
I think hysterical hearsay is the stock-in-trade of most of the posters on this thread. Caught the highlights last night and the only bit of violent behaviour shown was an attempted elbow by a Down man.
I seen that myself Tac, the Down man clearly trying to take of Moriarty's head off with his elbow at least twice
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 22, 2010, 11:54:07 AM
Quote from: AFS on March 22, 2010, 11:43:10 AM
Did the TV coverage show any incidents involving McKeever and Clarke, I've it Sky+ed but haven't faced up to watching it yet? I'm assuming comments like these, from those not in attendance on Saturday night, are inspired by video evidence rather than some of the hysterical hearsay by overprotective partisan supporters here and elsewhere.
I think hysterical hearsay is the stock-in-trade of most of the posters on this thread. Caught the highlights last night and the only bit of violent behaviour shown was an attempted elbow by a Down man.
thats ok, if a down man swung an elbow thats unacceptable and cannot be condoned. that sort of thing happens regularly in games (mckeever swinging his boot wrecklessly in the first half would also fall into that bracket). although unacceptable we cannot say that such instances are uncommon.
what is uncommon is for a player to stand over an opponent and watch him receive treatment for an obviously painful injury and then hit him as soon as he gets to his feet. that is what the uproar is about and in my view is justified.
such behaviour is unacceptable anywhere.
attempts by armagh supporters to somehow excuse his behaviour by stating that it is hysterical hearsay is pathetic.
the sad thing is very few armagh supporters have come out and said that their captain was well out of order, in fact some of the rubbish posted here by some of the armagh posters would make you wonder if they were at the same game.
Completely unprovoked of course. Stephen Kearney just thought he would swing the arm a few times just for the sake of it, no other reason. Moriarity was wrongly sent off of course.
Bullshit. When Mc Keever was being substituted, the Armagh fans in the main stand (including myself) rose in unison, and he simply acknowledged the applause with a wave, whats wrong with that? I saw Pat Jennings do it at Anfield once in front of the old kop. Sports star receives and acknowledges applause, big deal. Now if he'd been blowing kisses to the crowd etc light some other well known GAA egotists, of the not too distant past, then you could criticise him.
At least Clarke lasted longer against the Cullyhanna Pirannah, than Peter Canavan did back in 2005. Remember he was gone in 60 seconds! :D
I try not to deal in hysterical hearsay as some of my posts on other sites such as Armaghgaa forum or the former Orchard county can testify. gar is my username on those sites.I watched the match twice on Sky plus(yes I know glutton for punishment) but once you watch it again the following summary came to mind. Apart from the last 15 minutes armagh were definetly in the game. It was here that Armagh became visiibly tired . The extra man for Down was well deployed and was starting to count. One thing that no Armagh supporter picked up on but i spotted a few times at the match and it was more clear on the T V was how well wee james counteracted K toner after the initial ten minutes. Ambrose Rodgers on more than a few occasions spoiled K toner in the act of jumping Quite legally I may add. He climbed all over him and left the other guy King to field the ball. Twice he blocked his run . .
Down won it simply because they were able to crowd the defence . They got a lot more men behind the ball and when they broke they broke at speed. They moved the ball much quicker than we did . When we were awarded frees we held the ball pondered on decisions and by that time Down had all our tracks covered. On the other hand Down moved it at speed and had their men running all the time.
It's not rocket science it's good work on the training ground. Down havent suddenly arrived with a whole new team of great players from last year. They have admittedly Martin Clarke who may or may not prove to be the vital cog but it's their style of play that has changed.
i see paddy tally and McIvosr stamp all over that team . Their style should see them progress quite well this year. How far I don't know
Will Down keep it at that level or Tempo for the rest of the season . I am sure the mourne faithful on here hope so. For me I genuinely think that this is Downs top level . Armagh cant get much worse in some areas.
Down for me might not play much better all season.(and I am sure you would settle for that level every time ) Armagh can and most definetly will have to if we are to make any impact at all
In short we are missing three forwards and a midfielder thats the bottom line ..
yes tony your right Mc Keever is exempt from criticism. If only he had blown kisses to the crowd then and only then we could justify the abuse.
Explain to me what exactly he got the ovation for?
By the way he was waving to the crowd in response to the jeering and booing he got, was nothing to do with rmagh fans cheering him off and giving a standing ovation.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:22:12 PM
Bullshit. When Mc Keever was being substituted, the Armagh fans in the main stand (including myself) rose in unison, and he simply acknowledged the applause with a wave, whats wrong with that? I saw Pat Jennings do it at Anfield once in front of the old kop. Sports star receives and acknowledges applause, big deal. Now if he'd been blowing kisses to the crowd etc light some other well known GAA egotists, of the not too distant past, then you could criticise him.
At least Clarke lasted longer against the Cullyhanna Pirannah, than Peter Canavan did back in 2005. Remember he was gone in 60 seconds! :D
And remind me Tony-What medal did McKeever end up with that year? McKeever, a one trick pony for all the world to see and completely outdated when compared to the great half backs of the last decade.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:22:12 PM
Bullshit. When Mc Keever was being substituted, the Armagh fans in the main stand (including myself) rose in unison, and he simply acknowledged the applause with a wave, whats wrong with that? I saw Pat Jennings do it at Anfield once in front of the old kop. Sports star receives and acknowledges applause, big deal. Now if he'd been blowing kisses to the crowd etc light some other well known GAA egotists, of the not too distant past, then you could criticise him.
At least Clarke lasted longer against the Cullyhanna Pirannah, than Peter Canavan did back in 2005. Remember he was gone in 60 seconds! :D
you sir are an embarrassment to your county.
Rionach, id like to think that Down can perform a lot better than on saturday night. Considering the amount of wides we had it could have been a proper hiding. Down definitely didnt play at their optimum, then again they didnt have to in order to beat this Armagh side.
Quote from: rionach 4 on March 22, 2010, 12:25:36 PM
I try not to deal in hysterical hearsay as some of my posts on other sites such as Armaghgaa forum or the former Orchard county can testify. gar is my username on those sites.I watched the match twice on Sky plus(yes I know glutton for punishment) but once you watch it again the following summary came to mind. Apart from the last 15 minutes armagh were definetly in the game. It was here that Armagh became visiibly tired . The extra man for Down was well deployed and was starting to count. One thing that no Armagh supporter picked up on but i spotted a few times at the match and it was more clear on the T V was how well wee james counteracted K toner after the initial ten minutes. Ambrose Rodgers on more than a few occasions spoiled K toner in the act of jumping Quite legally I may add. He climbed all over him and left the other guy King to field the ball. Twice he blocked his run . .
Down won it simply because they were able to crowd the defence . They got a lot more men behind the ball and when they broke they broke at speed. They moved the ball much quicker than we did . When we were awarded frees we held the ball pondered on decisions and by that time Down had all our tracks covered. On the other hand Down moved it at speed and had their men running all the time.
It's not rocket science it's good work on the training ground. Down havent suddenly arrived with a whole new team of great players from last year. They have admittedly Martin Clarke who may or may not prove to be the vital cog but it's their style of play that has changed.
i see paddy tally and McIvosr stamp all over that team . Their style should see them progress quite well this year. How far I don't know
Will Down keep it at that level or Tempo for the rest of the season . I am sure the mourne faithful on here hope so. For me I genuinely think that this is Downs top level . Armagh cant get much worse in some areas.
Down for me might not play much better all season.(and I am sure you would settle for that level every time ) Armagh can and most definetly will have to if we are to make any impact at all
In short we are missing three forwards and a midfielder thats the bottom line ..
Good post. definitely thought james did well to counteract big Toner as you stated.
Would also agree with you that armagh won't be as bad as that again all season. Would also agree that that is the best we have seen down play for quite a while, however i would hope that this isnt their peak. hopefully they will be able to push on. i also think that had armagh came out and tried to attack in the second half down would have won by more, it appeared to be a damage limitation exercise for the final 20 minutes.
Mc Keever, as captain, lifted the AI U21 Championship trophy (you know the one Down tried hard to lift but failed throughout the noughties), also he has pocketed 3 Ulster SFC medals, thats 3 more than the combined total found in the current Down squad! :D
He is already half way to becoming a legend ;)
Tony, answer me this if you will. What did Mc Keever do in Saturday night's match to deserve a standing ovation.
This should be interesting.
Your take on what makes a legend is amusing to say the least.
He did what he always does, showed 100% commitment and fight (qualities missing in many of his colleagues on Saturday night), that's why he is so admired and appreciated, and he wouldn't have been subbed but for the risk of that tool Sludden sending him off.
Thats what motivated me to applaud, not for any particular incident he was involved in on Saturday night. Its the first time he has been taken off also, during a game, as far as I can recall.
He can be as big a cult hero as Francie, imho
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:44:26 PM
He did what he always does, showed 100% commitment and fight (qualities missing in many of his colleagues on Saturday night), that's why he is so admired and appreciated, and he wouldn't have been subbed but for the risk of that tool Sludden sending him off.
Thats what motivated me to applaud, not for any particular incident he was involved in on Saturday night. Its the first time he has been taken off also, during a game, as far as I can recall.
He can be as big a cult hero as Francie, imho
He was taken off because he's injured his hamstring.
He was applauded because people were sick of listening to the constant foul-mouthed abuse meted out to him by Down fans from before the first whistle.
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 22, 2010, 12:49:17 PM
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:44:26 PM
He did what he always does, showed 100% commitment and fight (qualities missing in many of his colleagues on Saturday night), that's why he is so admired and appreciated, and he wouldn't have been subbed but for the risk of that tool Sludden sending him off.
Thats what motivated me to applaud, not for any particular incident he was involved in on Saturday night. Its the first time he has been taken off also, during a game, as far as I can recall.
He can be as big a cult hero as Francie, imho
He was taken off because he's injured his hamstring.
He was applauded because people were sick of listening to the constant foul-mouthed abuse meted out to him by Down fans from before the first whistle.
and going on the evidence before us on saturday night entirely justified.
Ya wanna hear some of ya talking here about cult hero's FFS, it is embarassing the way people looked on Francie Bellew and now Ciaran. Grown men (acting like 10 year olds) giving guys like that a standing ovation :-[. They're not even in the top 20 of all time great Armagh footballers (i'd rate them even below top 50) but it's fools like you Fearon worshiping Ciaran and giving him the big head he has FFS. Skill wise very limited but heart 100% but as for Legends...take a red neck saan
I was appalled by the general level of hatred towards Armagh on display last Saturday night, even before throw in. I thought that under the circumstances the Armagh team and supporters took their defeat with good grace and its a ribute that this was the case in the face of severe provocation and totally ineffective refereeing performance. Imagine the mayhem that would have ensued had a Down player been sent off for nothing, like Moriarity was.
Oh right so thats why he was applauded and got an ovation. I see now.
Youse boys have little to be standing up for.
He was taken off a few years ago in the same ground after the first 15mins, in which he again got roasted, this time by Coulter, conceded an early goal, responded again by dirty antics (broke coulters hand i think) and then walked to the line when replaced. Only difference was that day Armagh went on to win.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:56:35 PM
I was appalled by the general level of hatred towards Armagh on display last Saturday night, even before throw in. I thought that under the circumstances the Armagh team and supporters took their defeat with good grace and its a ribute that this was the case in the face of severe provocation and totally ineffective refereeing performance. Imagine the mayhem that would have ensued had a Down player been sent off for nothing, like Moriarity was.
What drivel.
Yes Tony, the referee beat Armagh on saturday night.
Quote from: behind the wire on March 22, 2010, 12:21:13 PM
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 22, 2010, 11:54:07 AM
Quote from: AFS on March 22, 2010, 11:43:10 AM
Did the TV coverage show any incidents involving McKeever and Clarke, I've it Sky+ed but haven't faced up to watching it yet? I'm assuming comments like these, from those not in attendance on Saturday night, are inspired by video evidence rather than some of the hysterical hearsay by overprotective partisan supporters here and elsewhere.
I think hysterical hearsay is the stock-in-trade of most of the posters on this thread. Caught the highlights last night and the only bit of violent behaviour shown was an attempted elbow by a Down man.
thats ok, if a down man swung an elbow thats unacceptable and cannot be condoned. that sort of thing happens regularly in games (mckeever swinging his boot wrecklessly in the first half would also fall into that bracket). although unacceptable we cannot say that such instances are uncommon.
what is uncommon is for a player to stand over an opponent and watch him receive treatment for an obviously painful injury and then hit him as soon as he gets to his feet. that is what the uproar is about and in my view is justified.
such behaviour is unacceptable anywhere.
attempts by armagh supporters to somehow excuse his behaviour by stating that it is hysterical hearsay is pathetic.
the sad thing is very few armagh supporters have come out and said that their captain was well out of order, in fact some of the rubbish posted here by some of the armagh posters would make you wonder if they were at the same game.
Hysterical surely. It started off on Saturday night with shite about broken ribs and assaults and lifetime bans. In the cold light of day it has since boiled down to McKeever giving Clarke a bit of a dig after he got treatment for an unrelated incident. If I'd imagine there were a couple of dozen harder slaps thrown around the country this weekend without a word said. But then again, it is Marty the Messiah and any sacrilegious attempts to divert him from the quest to lead the mighty Aristocrats back the promised land must be met with unholy scorn.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:34:55 PM
Mc Keever, as captain, lifted the AI U21 Championship trophy (you know the one Down tried hard to lift but failed throughout the noughties), also he has pocketed 3 Ulster SFC medals, thats 3 more than the combined total found in the current Down squad! :D
He is already half way to becoming a legend ;)
Those credentials stood him well on saturday night.
- First he let the atmosphere of Newry get to him.
- He then gets roasted by Clarke (who's contribution during limited game time resulted in setting the tone for Armaghs hammering)
- He acts the performing monkey to his 'fans' in front of the stand when Clarke gets some treatment
- He then gets another roasting by young Maginn
- His management take him off so save any more embarrassment.
- He waves to the crowd like Pat Jennings
-Some Armagh 'fans' stand and clap because there was nothing else for them to cheer all night.
- Legend!
Paddy O'Rourke: All Ireland senior(as captain),minor, under 21 and club champion. Now he is a legend.
AFS you were doing so well there for a minute with a sensible post until your hatred clouded your judgement and ye went off on one about Clarke.
How do you think Mc Keever played on saturday night, how do you think he performed his duties at No6 then. Reckon he was any good do ye?.
BTW your full back Donaghy is a fine footballer and man marker, quite impressed with him in parts.
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 11:03:07 AM
Quote from: Trevor Hill on March 22, 2010, 10:59:27 AM
Quote from: Final Whistle on March 22, 2010, 10:35:08 AM
Will the CCCC be looking into the antics of a South Armagh man on Saturday evening?
Would this be the UFO on the Warrenpoint Rd about 20.55 on Saturday? Police received reports that an Unidentified Fat Object was speeding in the Direction of Kilmorey Street some 15 minutes before the game ended. The Unidentified Fat Object was being trailed by a Swamp Donkey. The police helicopter lost sight of the culprits in the vicinity of Kentucky Fried Chicken on Bridge Street. Police are also trying to trace the owner of 2 Armagh season tickets found lying in a puddle of grease and chicken bones. No chips have been retrieved as yet.
lol-no, im talking about the antics mckeever was at. thuggish to say the least.
I doubt you seen the 'thuggish antics' Final Whistle. The ref dealt with the situation by handing McKeever the yellow card. CCCCCCC can continue to villify Tyrone (Wrongly of course! ;))
Quote from: Brick Tamlin on March 22, 2010, 01:23:59 PM
AFS you were doing so well there for a minute with a sensible post until your hatred clouded your judgement and ye went off on one about Clarke.
How do you think Mc Keever played on saturday night, how do you think he performed his duties at No6 then. Reckon he was any good do ye?.
BTW your full back Donaghy is a fine footballer and man marker, quite impressed with him in parts.
McKeever was shite on Saturday night.
McKeever did not commit any acts on Saturday night worthy of the scorn and abuse that has subsequently rained down upon him.
The over reaction to any incidents by Down supporters is, at least in part, due to their overprotective fondness for Martin Clarke, a player I have a lot of time for.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:44:26 PM
He can be as big a cult hero as Francie, imho
Wrong consonant in that word I think.
It was a great occassion on Saturday night but i felt the match ended as a contest when Mo was sent off!!! Armagh were back in the game at that stage and it would have been an interesting second half with the full compliment of players on both sides.. Downs defence coped well but Armagh changed their gameplan when Charlie Vernon came on. Kalum King was excellent and is a great foil for Ambrose.. We have a great half back line at the minute who are all strong, great readers and comfortable on the ball. Our forwards played well at times but our half forwards play too deep and there is a massive gap between our midfield and full forward line for large parts of the game. It was great to see Benny grabbing a goal, his confidence will be sky high again and we should expect a strong finish to the campaign from him. Aaron Kernan is better suited in the half back line were he can come onto the ball but the worrying thing for them is that they have no natural scoring threats apart from Stevie and Clarke. Brendan Donaghy is a developing into a great full back but McKeever made a D**K out of himself when being taken off. He is a good player but he seems to be a loose cannon and craves attention! When playing against Down in Clones two years ago he marked Benny brilliantly but when he behaves likes the other night he is only taking his mind off his game and is no asset to the Armagh team!!
Ach Tom, it was just an act of defiance, and gave us a chance to cheer something in the second half there. Mc Keever is a bit highly strung alright, I remember when he received the Ulster U21 Championship Trophy at Casement in 2004, he laced his speech with a few f's, in front of all the dignatories. Still if you curbed that passion and devilment you would detract from the playing abilities
Actually Mc Cartan is manager, and Rogers, Mc Kernan and M Clarke are all on my wife's (which is really mine) Gaelic Life Fantasy team so I wasn't as heartbroken leaving Newry on Saturday night as I might have been ;)
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 02:35:01 PM
Actually Mc Cartan is manager, and Rogers, Mc Kernan and M Clarke are all on my wife's (which is really mine) Gaelic Life Fantasy team so I wasn't as heartbroken leaving Newry on Saturday night as I might have been ;)
You lying hoor, even your missus knows more about sport than you do, the Gaelic Life League Table does not lie :P
My missus didn't even know she'd entered the competition, until she got the email :D
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 02:35:01 PM
Ach Tom, it was just an act of defiance, and gave us a chance to cheer something in the second half there. Mc Keever is a bit highly strung alright, I remember when he received the Ulster U21 Championship Trophy at Casement in 2004, he laced his speech with a few f's, in front of all the dignatories. Still if you curbed that passion and devilment you would detract from the playing abilities
Actually Mc Cartan is manager, and Rogers, Mc Kernan and M Clarke are all on my wife's (which is really mine) Gaelic Life Fantasy team so I wasn't as heartbroken leaving Newry on Saturday night as I might have been ;)
He played with passion in Clones but without the mouthing and acting the hardman!!! I feel he plays better when he concentrates on playing football!!! Bellew was a hard player who went over the edge at times but he never resorted to the goading of the crowd or in your face tactics that Mckeever sometimes uses!!
Great photo of him on the Belfast Telegraph site. He's almost french kissing a Fermanagh player :D
Stop comparing McKeever to Bellew. In all my years of watching Francie, I never once saw him strike a foul blow or a sneaky off the ball foul. He never gave lip to his opponent or official. He was a hard but fair footballer. If the ball was there, then god help you, because Francie took no prisoners but there was none of this shite that McKeever gets up to.
It's true that you only miss the great players when they are gone, but Armagh should look to the traditions set down by McGeeney, McGrane, Francie, McEntee etc. Strong, Hard football from real hard men. Not this crap that we have gotten ourselves involved with at present from McKeever and Martin O'Rourke.
Mc Keever is no worse or better in this respect than the likes of Mc Menamin, Paul Galvin etc. Trash talk, intimidating an opponents etc. All part of his repertoire, its a sad reflection of his opponent if this tactic actually works. I wouldn't advocate that he changes.
By the way, I would doubt if Mickey Linden would agree that Francie was hard but fair all the time. At least Mc Keever is in your face about the way he sets his stall out.
Quote from: Feckitt on March 22, 2010, 03:37:11 PM
Stop comparing McKeever to Bellew. In all my years of watching Francie, I never once saw him strike a foul blow or a sneaky off the ball foul. He never gave lip to his opponent or official. He was a hard but fair footballer. If the ball was there, then god help you, because Francie took no prisoners but there was none of this shite that McKeever gets up to.
It's true that you only miss the great players when they are gone, but Armagh should look to the traditions set down by McGeeney, McGrane, Francie, McEntee etc. Strong, Hard football from real hard men. Not this crap that we have gotten ourselves involved with at present from McKeever and Martin O'Rourke.
Agree totally. Mc Keever shouldnt be included in the same sentence as Bellew. As a Tyrone man i initially wasnt that fond of Bellew but respect grew over the years. How Bellew conducted himself was a credit and Mc keever unfortunatley is not in the same league
Quote from: Bensars on March 22, 2010, 04:02:08 PM
Quote from: Feckitt on March 22, 2010, 03:37:11 PM
Stop comparing McKeever to Bellew. In all my years of watching Francie, I never once saw him strike a foul blow or a sneaky off the ball foul. He never gave lip to his opponent or official. He was a hard but fair footballer. If the ball was there, then god help you, because Francie took no prisoners but there was none of this shite that McKeever gets up to.
It's true that you only miss the great players when they are gone, but Armagh should look to the traditions set down by McGeeney, McGrane, Francie, McEntee etc. Strong, Hard football from real hard men. Not this crap that we have gotten ourselves involved with at present from McKeever and Martin O'Rourke.
Agree totally. Mc Keever shouldnt be included in the same sentence as Bellew. As a Tyrone man i initially wasnt that fond of Bellew but respect grew over the years. How Bellew conducted himself was a credit and Mc keever unfortunatley is not in the same league
I agree with that, McKeever has played some mighty games for Armagh, he has also cost us dear at times with his thuggery and for all his attributes I sometimes wonder if he is worth it at the county level.
Tony, what Francie to Linden was the direct result of a so called hospital ball being played between the two, Linden came off second best and if memory serves Francie wasnt even booked, there was no malice in the way Bellew played, he was just a tough, uncompromising player who played as if his life depended on it, never did I see Francie act the maggot like I have McKeever.
I love Mc Keever's aggression and ability to wind up opponents. I'd say there's not too many fancy playing against him, and he is an asset as far as Armagh is concerned.He's been on the end of a few meaty challenges himself in his time.
PS I know for a fact that Mickey Linden doesn't view Francie's challenge that, or any other purely accidental way ;)
Correct and right, as I said earlier. If the ball was there to be played then Francie would go through a brick wall to clear his lines, but you would NEVER see him take a cheap shot. Armagh at their peak would give it and take it, and they didn't cry about it.
Mickey was a great player in his day, but when TG4 arrived to make a 30 minute programme to salute the deeds of a great footballer, and Mickey spent at least 5 minutes at the end of the programme crying about the Francie incident then he went down in my estimation.
Tony, I always wondered about this. How do you get the time for this constant blogging. I have read through this thread and you have been on all day?
Make time on special occasions! ;)
Quote from: Feckitt on March 22, 2010, 04:48:45 PM
Tony, I always wondered about this. How do you get the time for this constant blogging. I have read through this thread and you have been on all day?
Blagging you mean??
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 12:22:12 PM
Bullshit. When Mc Keever was being substituted, the Armagh fans in the main stand (including myself) rose in unison, and he simply acknowledged the applause with a wave, whats wrong with that? I saw Pat Jennings do it at Anfield once in front of the old kop. Sports star receives and acknowledges applause, big deal. Now if he'd been blowing kisses to the crowd etc light some other well known GAA egotists, of the not too distant past, then you could criticise him.
At least Clarke lasted longer against the Cullyhanna Pirannah, than Peter Canavan did back in 2005. Remember he was gone in 60 seconds! :D
Wonder were ye still laughing like we were a few weeks later when he took 60 seconds
to kick ye out of an AI semi final ;D
Gone in 60 seconds is right Tony! :D
Quote from: Feckitt on March 22, 2010, 03:37:11 PM
Stop comparing McKeever to Bellew. In all my years of watching Francie, I never once saw him strike a foul blow or a sneaky off the ball foul. He never gave lip to his opponent or official. He was a hard but fair footballer. If the ball was there, then god help you, because Francie took no prisoners but there was none of this shite that McKeever gets up to.
It's true that you only miss the great players when they are gone, but Armagh should look to the traditions set down by McGeeney, McGrane, Francie, McEntee etc. Strong, Hard football from real hard men. Not this crap that we have gotten ourselves involved with at present from McKeever and Martin O'Rourke.
absolutely spot on. An insult to Francie to be included in the same sentence as McKeever, there's simply no comparison.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 22, 2010, 04:35:24 PM
I love Mc Keever's aggression and ability to wind up opponents. I'd say there's not too many fancy playing against him, and he is an asset as far as Armagh is concerned.He's been on the end of a few meaty challenges himself in his time.
PS I know for a fact that Mickey Linden doesn't view Francie's challenge that, or any other purely accidental way ;)
I think Marty C fancys playing against him. Considering the roasting he gave him in 20 minutes.
Quote from: lemallon on March 22, 2010, 10:29:23 AM
Quote from: tevez on March 22, 2010, 10:18:42 AM
Listen boys Saturday nite was a very valuable lesson for the future of Armagh. We have learned for definite who can cut it and who cant. McEvoy is doggy, could someone not go to Mckinney and get him back. Full back line are lethal just need more protection. Finn Mo and Paul Kernan are very limited need wing half backs who are flyin and good on the ball. Need to get Dyas back and playing, will make massive difference in terms of attacking from half back line. Toner is fine Austin nowhere near it. Vernon wasn't fi. Lavery was miss too will have a big championhip for Armagh this year. Feeney tries hard but no scoring treat not good enough. Malachy Mackin not good enough. Arron Kernan needs more chances at chf. Need Clarke back, and need Jamie Clarke in squad. He knows were goal are and has speed. Swift limited so is Mickey McNamee. What's wrong with Brian Mallon? Management were terrible on line. Only left one scoring forward on field when we were behind. Brutal!
Good post. Only thing id disagree with is on Swift. While not a fan in the past i was very impressed sat night. It was only when the management made their crazy half time switches that he went out of the game. Would Tony Fearon please stop posting. He is embarrassing every genuine Armagh fan on this site.
I have said before he is an embarrassment to genuine supporters
Quote from: Feckitt on March 22, 2010, 04:40:46 PM
Correct and right, as I said earlier. If the ball was there to be played then Francie would go through a brick wall to clear his lines, but you would NEVER see him take a cheap shot. Armagh at their peak would give it and take it, and they didn't cry about it.
Mickey was a great player in his day, but when TG4 arrived to make a 30 minute programme to salute the deeds of a great footballer, and Mickey spent at least 5 minutes at the end of the programme crying about the Francie incident then he went down in my estimation.
Linden is a legend, he graced many's the park all over the country and was as good a player as you will ever see, that said I was disappointed to see that he went after Bellew the way he did, it's not as if he didnt know what sort of player Francie was. Bellew was never a dirty player, that incident was the result of a brutal pass that went between two players and one of them ended up badly hurt, it's unfortunate but it happens.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 21, 2010, 09:38:51 PM
As for young Clarke, well at least he has a full set of teeth to-day which is more than can be said of other so called Down legendary forwards after being marked by teak tough Armagh defenders.
Tony - Is that a source of pride for you?
Not cool camloughlad. I'd take that down.
Quote from: AFS on March 22, 2010, 07:11:30 PM
Not cool camloughlad. I'd take that down.
agree. Completely out of order and without factual basis. Legal issues here I reckon
Quote from: illdecide on March 22, 2010, 12:07:19 PM
Quote from: TacadoirArdMhacha on March 22, 2010, 11:54:07 AM
Quote from: AFS on March 22, 2010, 11:43:10 AM
Did the TV coverage show any incidents involving McKeever and Clarke, I've it Sky+ed but haven't faced up to watching it yet? I'm assuming comments like these, from those not in attendance on Saturday night, are inspired by video evidence rather than some of the hysterical hearsay by overprotective partisan supporters here and elsewhere.
I think hysterical hearsay is the stock-in-trade of most of the posters on this thread. Caught the highlights last night and the only bit of violent behaviour shown was an attempted elbow by a Down man.
I seen that myself Tac, the Down man clearly trying to take of Moriarty's head off with his elbow at least twice
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNIHsYpZjDA
If Kearney had connected with either of these attempt it would've done a good deal more damage than McKeever's alleged dig in the ribs :P
The last couple of Armagh posts ( Tony re Mickey and camloughlad) are pathetic.
Regarding the game, this was far from Down's best performance - this came in Newbridge on the opening day.It also showed me what the team can do when they apply themselves and gives justifiable reason for optimism.Armagh are in a period of transition- blending new players, playing people out of position and getting used to new management.Also, apart from Donaghy,Stevie Mc Donnell and Ronan Clarke, they have no real quality - I think Down have 7 or 8 players who could have made one of our AI winning teams.Up until 2 or 3 years ago, only Benny would have been considered.
For what it's worth, I think Mc Keever is a bit of an empty head but wish he was born in Clonduff rather than Cullyhanna.
Fearon, I won't be replying to any of your abusive PMs
You are an embarrassment to true Armagh supporters everywhere
Quote from: Dubh driocht on March 22, 2010, 07:24:39 PM
The last couple of Armagh posts ( Tony re Mickey and camloughlad) are pathetic.
Regarding the game, this was far from Down's best performance - this came in Newbridge on the opening day.It also showed me what the team can do when they apply themselves and gives justifiable reason for optimism.Armagh are in a period of transition- blending new players, playing people out of position and getting used to new management.Also, apart from Donaghy,Stevie Mc Donnell and Ronan Clarke, they have no real quality - I think Down have 7 or 8 players who could have made one of our AI winning teams.Up until 2 or 3 years ago, only Benny would have been considered.
For what it's worth, I think Mc Keever is a bit of an empty head but wish he was born in Clonduff rather than Cullyhanna.
What are you basing this on? Saturday Night? Andy Mallon? Kieran Toner? Paul Duffy? C McKeever (his ability isn't questioned by many). As many Armagh posters have said our defence is good enough to take us further, we need a midfield partner for Toner (Vernon IMO) and another couple of scoring forwards.
It's a pity that this thread has turned into an argument over C McKeever..........there's more than that to worry Armagh posters after Saturday evening.
Quote from: Dubh driocht on March 22, 2010, 07:24:39 PM
The last couple of Armagh posts ( Tony re Mickey and camloughlad) are pathetic.
Regarding the game, this was far from Down's best performance - this came in Newbridge on the opening day.It also showed me what the team can do when they apply themselves and gives justifiable reason for optimism.Armagh are in a period of transition- blending new players, playing people out of position and getting used to new management.Also, apart from Donaghy,Stevie Mc Donnell and Ronan Clarke, they have no real quality - I think Down have 7 or 8 players who could have made one of our AI winning teams.Up until 2 or 3 years ago, only Benny would have been considered.
For what it's worth, I think Mc Keever is a bit of an empty head but wish he was born in Clonduff rather than Cullyhanna.
Andy Mallon, Aaron Kernan, Charlie Vernon, Kieran Toner, Kevin Dyas don't do it for you? Armagh had a very poor game, one I think they'll have a lot from and earlier league performances show to have been greatly against their run of form. Genuinely, M Clarke and Ambrose are the only two Down players I'd take for the Armagh squad. Down are a good team but I believe Armagh's exceptionally poor show has flattered Down somewhat.
Would relish the chance to meet again in the league to get a true reflection. If Down can produce that performance again then I'll believethere may be some substance to some of your claims.
There's nothing in particular for Armagh supporters to worry about. Missing many regulars, We lost a NFL Game after winning three in a row with a young and inexperienced side principally because of an incompetent referee who sent one of our players off for no apparent reason.
Armagh people change like the wind. Partner for Toner? Few weeks back it was get Toner into FB he's not a midfielder and Vernon was the undisputed N#1 choice, unbelieveable one game and it's all change. If it's not Toner and Vernon in MF come championship time I'll be truely amazed. They are already a formidable intercounty partnership (at 22 & 23 yrs of age) and can only get better.
The chat about McKeever is laughable. I wish he was a Harps man and I'm glad he's with us and not against us on the county scene.
Can anyone record the Down v Armagh game for me? I'll pay. PM me if you can help
Setanta Ireland are showing a recording on Wed March 24th at 3am
http://www.setanta.com/ien/TV-Listings/
Setanta Ireland
Wed, March 24 at 03:00
Down v Armagh
GAA National Football League coverage.
A few points from Saturdays game from an Armagh perspective:
The goalkeeper position is still up in the air as McAvoy has yet to convince that he is the long term solution. However I would stick with him for the remainder of the League since we already know what Hearty can do.
The defence is very solid, however Duffy may be better served at half back leaving a postion available at corner back (P Kernan, P McKeown)
Toner is developing into a very good midfielder and together with Vernon they can form the bedrock of future Armagh teams for years to come.
Aaron Kernan is not a half forward. He needs a lot of open space to operate in and is slightly ponderous in tight situations. I welcomed the idea of playing him in the half forwards but it clearly hasn't worked. Either play him wing half back or nowhere.
The lack of scoring threat from forwards outside of Clarke and McDonnell persists. However some of the management decisions in this regard were infuriating.
Swift had scored 2 points, was playing well and was strangely withdrawn.
Henderson was made a scapegoat just to get a clearly unfit Vernon on the pitch whilst Forker was withdrawn prematurely after a great performance against Kildare. Bringing off those players who at least carried a scoring threat, in preference to workhorses like M Mackin and T Kernan who have had umpteen chances to prove themselves were poor calls from the line.
As for the McKeever incident I think it was a storm in a tea-cup. Granted he should not have got involved with the crowd but the abuse he took from the Down crowd was disgraceful.
Down look to be well drilled outfit with some good forwards but I would see more potential for a sustained championship riun from this Armagh side.
Am I the only one sick of Tony & Trevor?
Please Please Please, stop responding to their comments which are not worthy of true gaels.
Tony's manic rants and irrational posts are clearly part his the coping strategy for dealing with dissapointment and rejection (It was only a NL Div 2 game. Your shrink would not approve such a regressional approach).
He even rounds on fellow Armagh fans, clear evidence of a rat in a corner. Trevor Hill isn't much better but I note he has stepped back from posting in reaction to Tony. Congrats Trevor on claiming the higher ground, albeit it only slightly above worm level but please keep it up.
Legends: Francie v McKeever - no contest.
Francie dispodging teeth from a real legend - don't think Francie will claim that as one of his greatest moments.
Please return to comments about the game itself and please keep it real.
Quote from: bennydorano on March 22, 2010, 08:02:18 PM
Armagh people change like the wind. Partner for Toner? Few weeks back it was get Toner into FB he's not a midfielder and Vernon was the undisputed N#1 choice, unbelieveable one game and it's all change. If it's not Toner and Vernon in MF come championship time I'll be truely amazed. They are already a formidable intercounty partnership (at 22 & 23 yrs of age) and can only get better.
The chat about McKeever is laughable. I wish he was a Harps man and I'm glad he's with us and not against us on the county scene.
Benny if that's aimed at me I did say in my post that Charlie was the partner IMO.
This was always going to be a hard game for Armagh to win. An easy one for Down to be up for. For Armagh there were few positives but no need to hit the panic button after one defeat. I'd like to have seen the management stick with Forker and Henderson longer -after they went off any scoring threat wasn't there. Daft decisions like playing Vernon in full forward don't inspire confidence - let's hope there's not too many more like that to come.
Down look to have improved a lot this year, but the jury's out till the championship.
does anyone think paddy o rourke will take any blame for the many boobs that took place?? he was pathetic a couple more games like that and he'll lose the confidence of players and supporters alike. maybe he should come clean. has anyone heard any post match stuff. as for vernon he cant shoot hes no sean cavanagh when he wins the ball he should lay it off... arron kernan is out of time, like i said before hes a defender who doesnt want to tackle and a forward who doesnt want to be tackled- a wee spell in the dugout is a must. brian mallon IS a half forward and hes on the bench. maybe he should change his name to kernan, yip! brian kernan number 10 i can see that on a timesheet
Quote from: In the Onion Bag on March 22, 2010, 08:54:41 PM
Am I the only one sick of Tony & Trevor?
Please Please Please, stop responding to their comments which are not worthy of true gaels.
Tony's manic rants and irrational posts are clearly part his the coping strategy for dealing with dissapointment and rejection (It was only a NL Div 2 game. Your shrink would not approve such a regressional approach).
He even rounds on fellow Armagh fans, clear evidence of a rat in a corner. Trevor Hill isn't much better but I note he has stepped back from posting in reaction to Tony. Congrats Trevor on claiming the higher ground, albeit it only slightly above worm level but please keep it up.
Legends: Francie v McKeever - no contest.
Francie dispodging teeth from a real legend - don't think Francie will claim that as one of his greatest moments.
Please return to comments about the game itself and please keep it real.
I don't think any man who uses the murder of a child as ammunition in his campaign against a county really takes the "higher ground" in any way, shape or form.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jVOtyoKaDQ
He knew before taking the job, Armagh had a lack of scoring forwards but gets rid of Kevin Orourke, who was miles ahead of Henderson and Forker last season in my book, and also Steven Kernan who would also be capable of a score or two? This is simply laughable.
Quote from: lawnseed on March 22, 2010, 10:27:08 PM
does anyone think paddy o rourke will take any blame for the many boobs that took place?? he was pathetic a couple more games like that and he'll lose the confidence of players and supporters alike. maybe he should come clean. has anyone heard any post match stuff. as for vernon he cant shoot hes no sean cavanagh when he wins the ball he should lay it off... arron kernan is out of time, like i said before hes a defender who doesnt want to tackle and a forward who doesnt want to be tackled- a wee spell in the dugout is a must. brian mallon IS a half forward and hes on the bench. maybe he should change his name to kernan, yip! brian kernan number 10 i can see that on a timesheet
A wee spell on the bench would do you no harm either, lol. Give O'Rourke two years before ye start judging.
orior you know as i do paddy was poor his player selection made no sense and the changes made less sense as 08 says getting rid of young o Rourke and tryn Arne kernan at HF are boobs. the theory the AK is a HF is an urban myth perpotrated by people who wanted to make excuses for and draw attention away from the fact that he wasn't a very good defender, i wish i had a pound for every time I've heard it since he got onto the county squad. "oh well hes really a half-forward you know," hes more attack minded", well plainly hes not
Quote from: lawnseed on March 22, 2010, 11:03:01 PM
orior you know as i do paddy was poor his player selection made no sense and the changes made less sense as 08 says getting rid of young o Rourke and tryn Arne kernan at HF are boobs. the theory the AK is a HF is an urban myth perpotrated by people who wanted to make excuses for and draw attention away from the fact that he wasn't a very good defender, i wish i had a pound for every time I've heard it since he got onto the county squad. "oh well hes really a half-forward you know," hes more attack minded", well plainly hes not
So at least he gave AK a lash at half forward. Its not PoR's fault that it hasnt worked out after 4 games.
do you think for one second that if his da who reared and coached him thought he was a half-forward that he wouldnt have been up there?? its too close to derry for this b.sh1t
Paddy O'Rourke is on a hiding to nothing by taking the Armagh job.
Peter McDonnell has shown that the team is one in transition & is finding the same problems that hampered McDonnells tenure.
Armagh have struggled in bleeding in the new generation of players like Vernon, Donaghy, Forker & Henderson
The removing of the older players has seen a mixed bag in terms of results & Joe Kernan seen this coming & got out at the right time!
No matter who replaced him was on a dodgy path because all they would hear is "Under Joe we wouldn't have lost that game" or "Joe wouldn't do that"
O'Rourke being a Down man will be given even less time than Peter McDonnell. He has some very talented footballers coming through but needs the time to develop them into a team that is capable of competing with the best teams in Ireland again.
Every defeat is going to be his fault & few will look at his players as was the case on Saturday night.
Too many were more interested in beating Down players in the "I'm harder than you contest" than on the scoreboard.
McKeever let the occasion get to him & was joined in his very public display of his hatred of Down players by some of his team mates. That isn't P O'R fault & it was this that lead to Armagh going to 14 men & the fightback effectively ending.
Yes the decision by the Ref may have been debateable but it was evident that an Armagh player was gonna walk sooner or later with their petulant acts of bravado all of which resulted in nothing but Down scores!
O'Rourke will become the scapegoat but in my opinion on Saturday evening it was the players who didn't show up & lead to their own downfall not the manager.
Armagh's lack of scoring forwards is their big problem, I'd like to see Swift at centre half forward with Brian Mallon on one wing and Aaron Kernan on the other, full forward line of Stevie, Ronan and Forker.
As for McKeever.....he would be the first name on my team sheet.
It's also good to see Down back with the makings of a good team....keep the Ulster pot boiling.
Well whatever about his errors and tactical flaws I certaily wasn't happy about O'Rourke experiencing "mixed strange emotions" (apparently he felt strange not being over the moon after a Down victory??) after the game and announcing that he was "pleased for James and for Down" ??? ???
FFS He should be absolutely hurting like hell after that shambles and feeling totally ashamed, and should not be feeling happy for anyone >:(.
The Game was over over at that stage.
its called sportsmanship. What did you want him to say , "that shower that just beat us are a shower of good for nothin cnuts"?
Its got to a new level when you're upset about the emotions of the Armagh manager
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 09:07:22 AM
Well whatever about his errors and tactical flaws I certaily wasn't happy about O'Rourke experiencing "mixed strange emotions" (apparently he felt strange not being over the moon after a Down victory??) after the game and announcing that he was "pleased for James and for Down" ??? ???
FFS He should be absolutely hurting like hell after that shambles and feeling totally ashamed, and should not be feeling happy for anyone >:(.
Do you happen to be related to Alan Green or Stephen Nolan at all. You just come across as pleasant and endearing
Whatever about his roots and past allegiances he is Armagh manager now and has no room for sentiment, and should not be feeling "pleased" in any way shape or form after a largely shambolic display which was a big let down for the huge Armagh support.
I thought the post-match remarks by POR were aimed at trying to pacify the Down supporters after his defection to Armagh. He would have been better off saying nothing since he is now employed by Armagh county board. Instead he gave a glimpse of his deep-rooted feelings.
It would also call into question his 100% desire to win this game. At least Geezer had the good sense to refrain from making media comments in the build up to and the aftermath of the Armagh v Kildare game.
Quote from: yellowcard on March 23, 2010, 09:55:05 AM
I thought the post-match remarks by POR were aimed at trying to pacify the Down supporters after his defection to Armagh. He would have been better off saying nothing since he is now employed by Armagh county board. Instead he gave a glimpse of his deep-rooted feelings.
It would also call into question his 100% desire to win this game. At least Geezer had the good sense to refrain from making media comments in the build up to and the aftermath of the Armagh v Kildare game.
Based on what?
Quote from: Bensars on March 23, 2010, 09:57:48 AM
Quote from: yellowcard on March 23, 2010, 09:55:05 AM
I thought the post-match remarks by POR were aimed at trying to pacify the Down supporters after his defection to Armagh. He would have been better off saying nothing since he is now employed by Armagh county board. Instead he gave a glimpse of his deep-rooted feelings.
It would also call into question his 100% desire to win this game. At least Geezer had the good sense to refrain from making media comments in the build up to and the aftermath of the Armagh v Kildare game.
Based on what?
Based on a natural affinity towards the county that you served as player and manager for so long. Could you honestly say that you would derive any satisfaction from beating the club or county team that you are attached to. This was always going to be a difficult game for POR in that sense and is the reason why I believe that ALL counties should be prevented from appointing outside men.
O'Rourke didn't "defect" to Armagh. He was sacked by Down, defection suggests that he left the post in his native county to take up a similar post in another county.
What he said would be akin to Mark Hughes, when he was manager of Man City, saying he was "pleased for Man Utd and his old boss Fergie", after a Manchester derby defeat.
As a previous poster said he wouldhave been better off saying nothing at all, just like Ronan Keating advocates
Quote from: Bensars on March 23, 2010, 09:37:03 AM
What did you want him to say , "that shower that just beat us are a shower of good for nothin cnuts"?
Its got to a new level when you're upset about the emotions of the Armagh manager
Would Paddy O'Rourke not have said that when he was playing for or managing Down when Armagh beat them?
;D ;D ;D
As part of Armagh GAA's expanded Video coverage on our website, we had a camera at both our Senior games this weekend. Click on the link belows to see the videos from what were contrasting fortunes for the Footballers and Hurlers
NFL DIVISION II - ARMAGH 1-6 DOWN 1-13
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-1-6-Down-1-13.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Paddy-O-Rourke-is-hugely-disappointed-by-de.aspx
NHL DIVISION IIIA - ARMAGH 3-11 DERRY 1-12
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-3-12-Derry-1-11.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Armagh-captain-Cahal-Carvill-is-delighted-t.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Michael-Johnston-is-buoyed-by-Derry-victory.aspx
Quote from: orange2009 on March 23, 2010, 10:15:09 AM
As part of Armagh GAA's expanded Video coverage on our website, we had a camera at both our Senior games this weekend. Click on the link belows to see the videos from what were contrasting fortunes for the Footballers and Hurlers
NFL DIVISION II - ARMAGH 1-6 DOWN 1-13
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-1-6-Down-1-13.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Paddy-O-Rourke-is-hugely-disappointed-by-de.aspx
NHL DIVISION IIIA - ARMAGH 3-11 DERRY 1-12
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-3-12-Derry-1-11.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Armagh-captain-Cahal-Carvill-is-delighted-t.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Michael-Johnston-is-buoyed-by-Derry-victory.aspx
Whoever commentated on that game sounded like he was reading a fairytale story!! :o
Thats paranoia talking.
Firstly you have no idea as to the level his desire. You may have a percieved idea at what you think his mindset may have been, however as far as we have been lead to believe you have not won any physic competitions lately.
In regards to Managers being selected from within a particular county, it is a different arguement altogher. Thankfully your more successful neighbours in Down and Tyrone dont have that problem and there would be quite a list of willing partipants if a the oppurtunity arose. However i can understand when Counties go outside of their own boundries to attract a higher calibre individual to bring a better skillset to the position.
Was O'Rourke also pleased for Mc Ivor (Derry) and Tally (Tyrone) the real tacticians behind the current Down team?
Quote from: omagh_gael on March 23, 2010, 10:21:25 AM
Quote from: orange2009 on March 23, 2010, 10:15:09 AM
As part of Armagh GAA's expanded Video coverage on our website, we had a camera at both our Senior games this weekend. Click on the link belows to see the videos from what were contrasting fortunes for the Footballers and Hurlers
NFL DIVISION II - ARMAGH 1-6 DOWN 1-13
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-1-6-Down-1-13.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Paddy-O-Rourke-is-hugely-disappointed-by-de.aspx
NHL DIVISION IIIA - ARMAGH 3-11 DERRY 1-12
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-3-12-Derry-1-11.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Armagh-captain-Cahal-Carvill-is-delighted-t.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Michael-Johnston-is-buoyed-by-Derry-victory.aspx
Whoever commentated on that game sounded like he was reading a fairytale story!! :o
Well at least we're making an effort to give Armagh GAA supporters videos from matches
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 10:53:38 AM
Was O'Rourke also pleased for Mc Ivor (Derry) and Tally (Tyrone) the real tacticians behind the current Down team?
Whatever about McIvor, Tally is a lot of things but he ain't no tactician.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 10:53:38 AM
Was O'Rourke also pleased for Mc Ivor (Derry) and Tally (Tyrone) the real tacticians behind the current Down team?
No idea. You seem to be the resident mind reader. Also, since when have you had access to the Down management team meetings ?
Quote from: orange2009 on March 23, 2010, 10:55:09 AM
Quote from: omagh_gael on March 23, 2010, 10:21:25 AM
Quote from: orange2009 on March 23, 2010, 10:15:09 AM
As part of Armagh GAA's expanded Video coverage on our website, we had a camera at both our Senior games this weekend. Click on the link belows to see the videos from what were contrasting fortunes for the Footballers and Hurlers
NFL DIVISION II - ARMAGH 1-6 DOWN 1-13
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-1-6-Down-1-13.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Paddy-O-Rourke-is-hugely-disappointed-by-de.aspx
NHL DIVISION IIIA - ARMAGH 3-11 DERRY 1-12
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-3-12-Derry-1-11.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Armagh-captain-Cahal-Carvill-is-delighted-t.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Michael-Johnston-is-buoyed-by-Derry-victory.aspx
Whoever commentated on that game sounded like he was reading a fairytale story!! :o
Well at least we're making an effort to give Armagh GAA supporters videos from matches
I'm only messing! Fair play to you!
Some things never change, the Chubby Chaser is still full of sh*t and Saturdays result is still Down 1-13 1-06 Armagh. :D
Quote from: omagh_gael on March 23, 2010, 11:54:32 AM
Quote from: orange2009 on March 23, 2010, 10:55:09 AM
Quote from: omagh_gael on March 23, 2010, 10:21:25 AM
Quote from: orange2009 on March 23, 2010, 10:15:09 AM
As part of Armagh GAA's expanded Video coverage on our website, we had a camera at both our Senior games this weekend. Click on the link belows to see the videos from what were contrasting fortunes for the Footballers and Hurlers
NFL DIVISION II - ARMAGH 1-6 DOWN 1-13
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-1-6-Down-1-13.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Paddy-O-Rourke-is-hugely-disappointed-by-de.aspx
NHL DIVISION IIIA - ARMAGH 3-11 DERRY 1-12
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Match-Report---Armagh-3-12-Derry-1-11.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Armagh-captain-Cahal-Carvill-is-delighted-t.aspx
http://armagh-gaa.com/Armagh-TV/News/VIDEO--Michael-Johnston-is-buoyed-by-Derry-victory.aspx
Whoever commentated on that game sounded like he was reading a fairytale story!! :o
Well at least we're making an effort to give Armagh GAA supporters videos from matches
I'm only messing! Fair play to you!
No bother ;D
Back page if Irish News today answers all those mourne folk who obviously got their facts wrong about M Clarke injury. Both Marty and James have said injury was not caused by McKeever. Wonder will there be any apologies forthcoming?
I won't defend some of Ciaran's activities on Sat night when if he had played football he would have served Armagh's cause better. However some of the abuse from some people here has been totally over the top!
Quote from: Stevie Nicks on March 23, 2010, 03:05:14 PM
Back page if Irish News today answers all those mourne folk who obviously got their facts wrong about M Clarke injury. Both Marty and James have said injury was not caused by McKeever. Wonder will there be any apologies forthcoming?
I won't defend some of Ciaran's activities on Sat night when if he had played football he would have served Armagh's cause better. However some of the abuse from some people here has been totally over the top!
Aye right....do you really think James and Marty are going to come out in the national press and say...."Yep....it was McKeever's fault"
Quote from: 5 Sams on March 23, 2010, 03:50:04 PM
Quote from: Stevie Nicks on March 23, 2010, 03:05:14 PM
Back page if Irish News today answers all those mourne folk who obviously got their facts wrong about M Clarke injury. Both Marty and James have said injury was not caused by McKeever. Wonder will there be any apologies forthcoming?
I won't defend some of Ciaran's activities on Sat night when if he had played football he would have served Armagh's cause better. However some of the abuse from some people here has been totally over the top!
Aye right....do you really think James and Marty are going to come out in the national press and say...."Yep....it was McKeever's fault"
No I don't expect them to come out in press with that comment as there is absolutely no evidence that he did cause it. My point is that too many posters on this forum added 2 and 2 together and got 5! There was people claiming serious injury was caused by C McKeever however it has since transpired that the 'injury' was so bad that Marty is fit to travel to Mullingar!!
What was Mc Cartan talking about in the Irsih News pre warning Marty that "he would come in for special attention" and to keep calm ???
FFS This lad has a long way to go before he's anything special. I mean last Wednesday in Croke Park I watched Joe Canning (at 21 he's about the same age as Clarke roughly) score 12 points and play Ballyhale practically on his own. All I saw from Clarke on Saturday night was a point from distance on the right. This lad is a long long road from superstardom, and must be the most over hyped young player in the Country, just as for years Benny Coulter was over hyped.
i agree if mckeever had of hit someone else there wouldnt be as much fus over it,but because it was "marty clark" god forgive anyone who touches marty clark
Quote from: camloughlad on March 23, 2010, 04:34:55 PM
i agree if mckeever had of hit someone else there wouldnt be as much fus over it,but because it was "marty clark" god forgive anyone who touches marty clark
Has Fearon spawned some offspring here?
It would appear so norabeag!
Granted there have been some people who have wrongly blamed mckeever for injuring marty clarke when in fact no one knows who caused the injury.
but the cause of the uproar is that mckeever stood over clarke as he was receiving treatment and hit him as soon as the doctor helped him to his feet.
and to be honest im not sure the reaction of the crowd would have been any different if it was any other player.
Mr Fearon what a sad little individual you are!!
Get over it your team were comprehensively played off the park on Saturday evening & it wasnt the managers, refs, uninflated footballs or any other bullsh*t excuse you can think of!
The majority of decent Armagh folk on this have held their hands up & admitted Down out fought, out thought & out played Armagh.
Martin Clarke is a tremendous prospect & my betting is nearly every other County in the Country would love him to be turning out in their colours but by no means are we saying he is the finished article. He is still finding his feet at Senior level but thus far he has been a breath of fresh air to our County team.
Yes he is going to be targeted for "special attention" by players like McKeever but I would put that down to their own lack of belief that if they try to take him on in a purely legitimate manner on the field that they will come out on top.
McKeever was shown up for what he is on Saturday night, a bully boy who's tactics back fired big time & was made to look like one very naive fella as he left the field.
As already stated true Armagh legends like the McEntees, McGrane, McGeeney & Co were as hard as youd come across but they conducted themselves in a manner & class were opponents & their supporters respected their talents.
Finally Benny Coulter has nothing to prove to an idiot like you. Ask any of your full back line if he is over rated & I can bet youd get a very different answer!!!
Quote from: behind the wire on March 23, 2010, 05:00:47 PM
It would appear so norabeag!
Granted there have been some people who have wrongly blamed mckeever for injuring marty clarke when in fact no one knows who caused the injury.
but the cause of the uproar is that mckeever stood over clarke as he was receiving treatment and hit him as soon as the doctor helped him to his feet.
and to be honest im not sure the reaction of the crowd would have been any different if it was any other player.
Not only blamed Ciaran McKeever in the wrong but also got quite personal about Ciaran which has no place on any forum!! I again will back up my opinion that I wish Ciaran would concentrate on his football and develop himself into one of the best CHB in the country because the potential is there and not give some posters any more ammunition.
I'm enjoying watching Tony go into meltdown on this thread. :D
ziggy I am 14 years and 361 days of Armagh not defeating Down away from meltdown. I was 10 times more annoyed two years ago when Westmeath gave our proper team a right going over in Mullingar, than I was leaving Newry last Saturday ;)
Are Westmeath Armaghs rivals now? Nothing like beating the oul neighbours, but its not much to brag about thesse days. ;D
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 04:21:47 PM
What was Mc Cartan talking about in the Irsih News pre warning Marty that "he would come in for special attention" and to keep calm ???
FFS This lad has a long way to go before he's anything special. I mean last Wednesday in Croke Park I watched Joe Canning (at 21 he's about the same age as Clarke roughly) score 12 points and play Ballyhale practically on his own. All I saw from Clarke on Saturday night was a point from distance on the right. This lad is a long long road from superstardom, and must be the most over hyped young player in the Country, just as for years Benny Coulter was over hyped.
tony, tony what are you like? having watched tadhg kennelly get better by the day last year i've no doubt marty clarke will do the same, hes a class act. benny coulter is another one. i think down could go along way this year with tyrone fading (yet again) and armagh even further behind...
Quote from: ziggysego on March 23, 2010, 07:42:11 PM
I'm enjoying watching Tony go into meltdown on this thread. :D
It is quite funny!
Down went far last year...al the way to Wicklow and look what happened ;D
I doubt if Sam will be visiting either Down or Armagh this year but I'd be quietly optimistic about Armagh having a longer summer than Down
Quote from: magickingdom on March 23, 2010, 09:09:07 PM
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 04:21:47 PM
What was Mc Cartan talking about in the Irsih News pre warning Marty that "he would come in for special attention" and to keep calm ???
FFS This lad has a long way to go before he's anything special. I mean last Wednesday in Croke Park I watched Joe Canning (at 21 he's about the same age as Clarke roughly) score 12 points and play Ballyhale practically on his own. All I saw from Clarke on Saturday night was a point from distance on the right. This lad is a long long road from superstardom, and must be the most over hyped young player in the Country, just as for years Benny Coulter was over hyped.
uote]
tony, tony what are you like? having watched tadhg kennelly get better by the day last year i've no doubt marty clarke will do the same, hes a class act. benny coulter is another one. i think down could go along way this year with tyrone fading (yet again) and armagh even further behind...
FFS lads, it is the national league we are talking about here, the teams are not trying to peak now, they are trying to peak during the Championship season and given the heavy conditioning some teams are doing right now it is no wonder we are seeing sub par performances from teams and that there is a lot of inconsistency out there.
Take Tyrone for example, they are not exactly setting the world alight, Kerry rarely do at this time of the year but but both teams will be there or there abouts at the arse end of the season.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 10:00:52 PM
Down went far last year...al the way to Wicklow and look what happened ;D
I doubt if Sam will be visiting either Down or Armagh this year but I'd be quietly optimistic about Armagh having a longer summer than Down
Where are they going on their hols?
I am so sick of this retarded childish back+forward between fk wits on here
Plz change the record lads - you're going on like kids now.
Know how you feel. But we are constantly tying to put manners on Trevor Hill, 5Sams and An Dubh Droicht. It is a long arduous and largely thankless task, with no guarantee of a successful outcome
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 04:21:47 PM
What was Mc Cartan talking about in the Irsih News pre warning Marty that "he would come in for special attention" and to keep calm ???
FFS This lad has a long way to go before he's anything special. I mean last Wednesday in Croke Park I watched Joe Canning (at 21 he's about the same age as Clarke roughly) score 12 points and play Ballyhale practically on his own. All I saw from Clarke on Saturday night was a point from distance on the right. This lad is a long long road from superstardom, and must be the most over hyped young player in the Country, just as for years Benny Coulter was over hyped.
I would actually agree with TF's post. For all the talk and hype around Clarke, a few points from play in 5 or 6 games isn't exactly setting the world alight.
Quote from: nrico2006 on March 24, 2010, 09:42:57 AM
Quote from: T Fearon on March 23, 2010, 04:21:47 PM
What was Mc Cartan talking about in the Irsih News pre warning Marty that "he would come in for special attention" and to keep calm ???
FFS This lad has a long way to go before he's anything special. I mean last Wednesday in Croke Park I watched Joe Canning (at 21 he's about the same age as Clarke roughly) score 12 points and play Ballyhale practically on his own. All I saw from Clarke on Saturday night was a point from distance on the right. This lad is a long long road from superstardom, and must be the most over hyped young player in the Country, just as for years Benny Coulter was over hyped.
I would actually agree with TF's post. For all the talk and hype around Clarke, a few points from play in 5 or 6 games isn't exactly setting the world alight.
9 points from 5 games, with big wins over Kildare, Meath and Armagh not much more Down or Marty Clarke can do at this stage. It's better that the scores are coming from a range of players 2 Clarkes, Benny, Hughes, Rodgers, Laverty etc. Otherwise the opposition can just concentrate there efforts on stopping 1 or 2 players getting the ball, like Down tried to do putting an extra man in front of Stevie.
In fairness our management team didn't help that matter by taking Forker and Henderson off.
Martin has scored 14 points in Downs opening 5 games, 7 from play. Not a bad tally for a playmaker. John has scored 12 points, all but one from play. It is no coincidence that John is playing his best football now that he has such a good supply of ball. Martin does all the simple things well without being too flash or showy. A bit like Greg Blaney. Only Paul McComiskey has scored more than Martin 1-12, though 9 of those points have been frees, Paul has played one game less. The big difference this year is that every one of the forwards are chipping in with scores.
So far...
So far... So Good.
Yip...
So what exactly happened Marty Clarke? Was it just bruised ribs??
Quote from: downgirl on March 24, 2010, 03:25:28 PM
So what exactly happened Marty Clarke? Was it just bruised ribs??
Na, they were just resting him for the Westmeath game. By the time he went off he had done enough damage - Armagh were well and trully beaten!
Quote from: Joe Umbrella (hey) on March 24, 2010, 03:57:09 PM
Quote from: downgirl on March 24, 2010, 03:25:28 PM
So what exactly happened Marty Clarke? Was it just bruised ribs??
Na, they were just resting him for the Westmeath game. By the time he went off he had done enough damage - Armagh were well and trully beaten!
Overrated to say the least, It's like the Liverpool fans thinking Lucas is good.
For Jaysus' sake. I'm after wasting about 45 minutes of my life wading through some of the most juvenile bullcrap it has been my misfortune to read.
Couple of points.
1) We are not on here 24/7, so there is some responsibility on all posters to adhere to basic levels of behaviour and conduct. If you cannot conduct yourself online like an adult, do not expect to be treated as one. I am fine and willing to clarify aspects of decisions here if you contact me via PM, as long as you act with a bit of decency.
2) We do not, and cannot, (as far as I know) view PMs. If anyone is receiving PMs they feel are abusive or out of order, then by all means send me on a copy of the PM and I'll deal with it. Don't rely on my ESP powers, as they've been battered by guinness and life.
3) This thread has seen a couple of new lows in my opinion. I know that some short bans were handed out earlier in the thread, but some of the stuff posted here, even since then, could well merit longer bans. Bringing people's personal life, or family, into a childish slagging match is bad enough, but some of the insults about someone who is, after all, an innocent party in this is absolutely out of order. If that happens again, it is permanent ban time.
4) Some of the invective spewed about a particular Armagh player is completely out of order. Why not try this rule of thumb. If you wouldn't say it to his face, don't say it here behind a mask of anonymity. It's cowardly. Criticism is fine, that's all debate, but some of you reached the depths there without any proof to back it up.
5) I've said it on another thread already, before I read this one. This rubbish between Trevor Hill and T. Fearon has to stop right here. GAABoard is not your private conker fighting playground. Take it somewhere else if you want to insult the bejaysus out of each other, but it will not be tolerated here. There are mechanisms for reporting issues, and if they are not addressed to your satisfaction, you can ask for clarification.
But let this be clarification enough for both of ye. I don't care what has happened up to now, but if this continues between ye, ye will both be banned permanently. End of story.
I'm sorry for other people reading this if this comes across as trying to be a hard man, it's not intended that way, but this stuff would just wear you down.
OK? Thanks, back to your regularly scheduled programming.
Fair play Mod3
Not hard at all Mod. Very fair.
delighted to see this abuse to an armagh player stopped
To get back on the actual topic ;D
See in todays Irish News Benny Tierney agrees that Armagh came into the game with "too much of a local derby mindset & were more concerned at times at applying the big hits than the more important task of winning the ball"
On the evidence of Saturday evening Id definitely agree with this.
Armagh arent a poor side. In fact I think they have some great young footballers in that panel who on their day couldve caused Down serious damage. But I think a lot of them foolishly seemed to be more concerned with busting a fella in a tackle or getting involved in niggling & this actually had a detrimental effect on Armagh's overall performance.
I apologise to everyone on this thread for my imtemperate language and indeed I was man enough to apolgise by PM to Trevor Hill this morning (no reciprocal apology received to date) and to the mod, prior to he or she posting this clarifiication/warning.
However I think many others contributing to this thread need to look at themselves as well.
I understand the mod's concerns and will heed this warning. However I just hope that all posters who abuse others, very often simply because they disagree with a point of view, are also subjected to disciplinary measures. Just because some behave badly less frequently than others is no excuse or defence, and I hope everyone is treated equally from now on
Quote from: T Fearon on March 24, 2010, 07:06:39 PM
However I think many others contributing to this thread need to look at themselves as well.
AN ATTEMPT TO PASS THE PARCEL METHINKS! ALMOST A RED CARD OFFENCE?
I RETRACT THAT MODS.
SURE THE BOARD WOULD BE ALL BE THE POORER WITHOUT OUR TONY FOR A BIT OF CRAIC. BUT TONY, TRY TO KEEP IT REAL PLEASE.
Quote from: T Fearon on March 24, 2010, 07:06:39 PM
I apologise to everyone on this thread for my imtemperate language and indeed I was man enough to apolgise by PM to Trevor Hill this morning (no reciprocal apology received to date) and to the mod, prior to he or she posting this clarifiication/warning.
However I think many others contributing to this thread need to look at themselves as well.
I understand the mod's concerns and will heed this warning. However I just hope that all posters who abuse others, very often simply because they disagree with a point of view, are also subjected to disciplinary measures. Just because some behave badly less frequently than others is no excuse or defence, and I hope everyone is treated equally from now on
the mods may watch out or tf will have them up for unfair dismissal!
haha this is like bein back at school...hardman TFearon apologises because of a tellin off from his teacher!!! hilarious....
on the note of a certain Armagh player gettin abuse - its deserved! not saying we should call him the names of the day, but he's a terrible role model! his antics on the pitch are bad enough, but my problem is his lack of sportsmanship! whatever happens on the pitch happens, but before and after a match you should atleast shake a man's hand! this will be mimicked by underaged players that look up to their county players!
I know fearon...get off you're knee's FFS...lol
I have confessed to the Almighty Moderator and begged his forgiveness. I will endeavour to sin no more, but trust in the everlasting mercy of the Moderator for those who truly repent ad turn away from evil ;D
Are all those Down Fans outraged at Ciaran McKeevers activities similarly outraged at the assault by Down's number 12 on Finnian Moriarty clearly shown on Setanta and commented on by the summariser? Which the linesman got seriously wrong. This actually was the turning point of the game as Armagh failed to cope against 15 men, and the management team made serious errors with their substitutions, whilst McCartan used his spare man very effectively.
As for Paddy O'Rourke as an Armagh man I've no difficulty with his graciousness in defeat, what else could he have said? Reality check required here, nothing is won in March, both these teams are in transition and neither set of supporters should get carried away either with unrealistic expectations or unnecessary gloom.
Quote from: Applesisapples on March 25, 2010, 01:43:42 PM
Are all those Down Fans outraged at Ciaran McKeevers activities similarly outraged at the assault by Down's number 12 on Finnian Moriarty clearly shown on Setanta and commented on by the summariser? Which the linesman got seriously wrong. This actually was the turning point of the game as Armagh failed to cope against 15 men, and the management team made serious errors with their substitutions, whilst McCartan used his spare man very effectively.
As for Paddy O'Rourke as an Armagh man I've no difficulty with his graciousness in defeat, what else could he have said? Reality check required here, nothing is won in March, both these teams are in transition and neither set of supporters should get carried away either with unrealistic expectations or unnecessary gloom.
In answer to your question, No, Stephen Kearney didn't stand over his injured opponent while he lay on the ground getting treatment & then when the said opponent got to his feet, hit him with a cheap shot.
(btw I think this was discussed about 4 days ago on this very thread, but like the Armagh team on Saturday night you aren't that quick of the mark)
Again after the actions of Ward and McCartan in previous years are anything to go by Down are in no position to criticise Armagh about violent conduct or discipline.
As well as the Down players elbow on Saturday past, you could mention Martin Cole's horrendous forearm smash on Davy Harte in 2008.
Or perhaps you could also mention Luke Howards late, deliberate body check on Stephen Kernan in 2008 as well.
Or what about Benny Coulter getting sent off for violent conduct v St Galls in 2005.
Judging by this thread you would think Down are a shower of Angels. Maybe Down fans should look closer to home before they go on about McKeever. On another note about time Down beat a 14 man Armagh team as they could not manage it in 08. :D
God man Pearse Og! Do you want to try & go back even further in time? Pherhaps the 80's? 70's?
The matter at hand here is that on Saturday evening Ciaran McKeever not only let himself down but also his County.
Of all them examples you have so brilliantly listed could you honestly say any of them have a reputation as dirty players who use under hand tactics when the going gets tough?
Ciaran McKeever has the reputation because he has stooped to these levels in the past & no doubt he will do the same in the future when he is getting the run around. ::)
Simple facts are he couldnt handle Marty Clarke & had to try every dirty tactic he could to bring Clarke down to his level.
If he thought he could have handled him on a footballing basis he wouldve down that & shown everyone what a terrific & undoubtedly talented defender he is. But he chose to go down the route he did simply because Marty was getting the better of him
For God sake even your ex players are coming out & saying your players seemed more intent in the physical side than the winning!!
Quote from: Applesisapples on March 25, 2010, 01:43:42 PM
Are all those Down Fans outraged at Ciaran McKeevers activities similarly outraged at the assault by Down's number 12 on Finnian Moriarty clearly shown on Setanta and commented on by the summariser? Which the linesman got seriously wrong. This actually was the turning point of the game as Armagh failed to cope against 15 men, and the management team made serious errors with their substitutions, whilst McCartan used his spare man very effectively.
As for Paddy O'Rourke as an Armagh man I've no difficulty with his graciousness in defeat, what else could he have said? Reality check required here, nothing is won in March, both these teams are in transition and neither set of supporters should get carried away either with unrealistic expectations or unnecessary gloom.
Quote from: Pearse og on March 25, 2010, 06:16:37 PM
Again after the actions of Ward and McCartan in previous years are anything to go by Down are in no position to criticise Armagh about violent conduct or discipline.
As well as the Down players elbow on Saturday past, you could mention Martin Cole's horrendous forearm smash on Davy Harte in 2008.
Or perhaps you could also mention Luke Howards late, deliberate body check on Stephen Kernan in 2008 as well.
Or what about Benny Coulter getting sent off for violent conduct v St Galls in 2005.
Judging by this thread you would think Down are a shower of Angels. Maybe Down fans should look closer to home before they go on about McKeever. On another note about time Down beat a 14 man Armagh team as they could not manage it in 08. :D
I see the Hoganstand website is down again :-\
Quote from: guevara on March 25, 2010, 06:43:36 PM
God man Pearse Og! Do you want to try & go back even further in time? Pherhaps the 80's? 70's?
The matter at hand here is that on Saturday evening Ciaran McKeever not only let himself down but also his County.
Of all them examples you have so brilliantly listed could you honestly say any of them have a reputation as dirty players who use under hand tactics when the going gets tough?
Ciaran McKeever has the reputation because he has stooped to these levels in the past & no doubt he will do the same in the future when he is getting the run around. ::)
McKeever, a decent footballer but on the slide, better watch out and hope PoR retires him before Marty grows up and reeks some revenge on that auld lad.
Simple facts are he couldnt handle Marty Clarke & had to try every dirty tactic he could to bring Clarke down to his level.
If he thought he could have handled him on a footballing basis he wouldve down that & shown everyone what a terrific & undoubtedly talented defender he is. But he chose to go down the route he did simply because Marty was getting the better of him
For God sake even your ex players are coming out & saying your players seemed more intent in the physical side than the winning!!
Quote from: guevara on March 25, 2010, 06:43:36 PM
Of all them examples you have so brilliantly listed could you honestly say any of them have a reputation as dirty players who use under hand tactics when the going gets tough?
James McCartan admitted to deliberately assaulting the Westmeath player, and looking at any of those incidents that I listed it is hard to say that none of them were deliberate. And as a matter of fact in each of the incidents that I listed, with the exception of the Westmeath game, Down or Mayobridge were losing, so the going was tough.
::) ::)
I wish the Down supporters would put the Ciaran Mc Keever scenario to bed
as it's getting beyond the point of ridiculous now, bordering on slander with
some of the posts that are on this thread.
The Down supporters need to realise that this was only a 2nd division league game, (U's have'n won anything yet)
and stop getting carried away with their first win over Armagh since 1995 (in the last century :D)
Anyone would think they won the All Ireland...... :o
Good Luck to Down in the rest of their League Campaign
;D ;D
Hope it's a Down Armagh Div 2 final and we can put this nonsense to rest
QuoteHope it's a Down Armagh Div 2 final and we can put this nonsense to rest
Be careful what you wish for.
Quote from: dodgy umpire on March 25, 2010, 11:41:38 PM
Hope it's a Down Armagh Div 2 final and we can put this nonsense to rest
That would be great. I think you are right, that
is what is needed. But do you think Armagh are capable of getting 4 points from Tipperary and Donegal, to make it to the final?
Quote from: western exile on March 26, 2010, 08:22:27 AM
Quote from: dodgy umpire on March 25, 2010, 11:41:38 PM
Hope it's a Down Armagh Div 2 final and we can put this nonsense to rest
That would be great. I think you are right, that is what is needed. But do you think Armagh are capable of getting 4 points from Tipperary and Donegal, to make it to the final?
They are capable but i am not sure that they will. Tipperary should put up a strong challenge and i'd expect armagh to win by a narrow margin, but for me the Donegal game is a toss up.
Quote from: armaghniac on March 25, 2010, 11:58:58 PM
QuoteHope it's a Down Armagh Div 2 final and we can put this nonsense to rest
Be careful what you wish for.
There is no doubt in my mind that Down are the better team and would beat Armagh should they meet in the final. While it could be argued that Armagh would be better prepared to deal with Down should they meet, I believe that Down would go into the game confident and with the knowlege that they can beat Armagh (and by a big margin too), a feeling that none of these players will have had before. Were the game to be tight say in the 60th minute, this new belief would allow them to push on and secure victory. Then again, we may have finished the game off after 8 minutes anyway ;)
Seriously can't believe you lot are still rambling on about McKeever...WTF. Look i wasn't impressed with the waving to the crowd but hey it's done and dusted...get over it. As for the tackles and hitting, it's mans game FFS. You give it out and you take it back and get on with the game. Both McCartan and Clarke admitted that McKeever did not cause the injury so drop it, he may well have tested the old injury to see how it was healing but hey I'd do the same myself.
Armagh were well beat by Down and no-one could say any different but to think that Down are now so much better than Armagh now means you guys are away with the Fairy's. I can guarantee you Armagh will be a different team the next time they meet and i hope it's real soon as the match i seen last week showed Armagh coming back into the game until they got a man sent off (this can work in you're favour or go against you big time and Down used their extra man to perfection). With 15 men on the field and a better performance from the line (Paddy) i reckon there is nothing between the two sides and it will certainly not be a stroll in the park for Down like it was last Sat night.
Quote from: mournerambler on March 25, 2010, 05:49:25 PM
Quote from: Applesisapples on March 25, 2010, 01:43:42 PM
Are all those Down Fans outraged at Ciaran McKeevers activities similarly outraged at the assault by Down's number 12 on Finnian Moriarty clearly shown on Setanta and commented on by the summariser? Which the linesman got seriously wrong. This actually was the turning point of the game as Armagh failed to cope against 15 men, and the management team made serious errors with their substitutions, whilst McCartan used his spare man very effectively.
As for Paddy O'Rourke as an Armagh man I've no difficulty with his graciousness in defeat, what else could he have said? Reality check required here, nothing is won in March, both these teams are in transition and neither set of supporters should get carried away either with unrealistic expectations or unnecessary gloom.
In answer to your question, No, Stephen Kearney didn't stand over his injured opponent while he lay on the ground getting treatment & then when the said opponent got to his feet, hit him with a cheap shot.
(btw I think this was discussed about 4 days ago on this very thread, but like the Armagh team on Saturday night you aren't that quick of the mark)
May have been discussed before, but you guys couldn't let it go now could you? I was just pointing out that old parable about the logs in your own eye!!! :D
Quote from: guevara on March 25, 2010, 06:43:36 PM
God man Pearse Og! Do you want to try & go back even further in time? Pherhaps the 80's? 70's?
The matter at hand here is that on Saturday evening Ciaran McKeever not only let himself down but also his County.
Of all them examples you have so brilliantly listed could you honestly say any of them have a reputation as dirty players who use under hand tactics when the going gets tough?
Ciaran McKeever has the reputation because he has stooped to these levels in the past & no doubt he will do the same in the future when he is getting the run around. ::)
Simple facts are he couldnt handle Marty Clarke & had to try every dirty tactic he could to bring Clarke down to his level.
If he thought he could have handled him on a footballing basis he wouldve down that & shown everyone what a terrific & undoubtedly talented defender he is. But he chose to go down the route he did simply because Marty was getting the better of him
For God sake even your ex players are coming out & saying your players seemed more intent in the physical side than the winning!!
This line has been used a few times, did I miss something....did he score 1-5 off him or something?? Yes, he hit a few good passes but he didn't run rings round him or anything, my gripe would be that McKeever would do a better job if he concentrated on his footballing job. Down posters should know that Ciaran didn't do what he did because he was afraid of Clarke, after all he has showed his man marking capabilities umpteen times up to this point.
I'd love another crack at Down, illdecide is right in what he has posted. Ye got a great start and played some super football (remembering that the goal was gifted to you). We had an equally dominant period outscoring ye 1.4 to 0.1 and then Sludden robbed us of the opportunity of an excellent tussle with the sending off. Our management compounded matters by taking off two scoring forwards and leaving the Down defence the easy job of double teaming Stevie. If Down posters want to believe the 6/7 point winning margin reflects the difference between the teams, work away and we'll (hopefully) see ye later in the year.