Down hurling manager Ger Monan isn't taking Armagh for granted.

The Ulster neighbours clash in the second round of the Christy Ring Cup in Crossmaglen tomorrow and Monan insists that the Ardsmen can't be seen as overwhelming favourites just because they beat the Orchard by nine points in the league in March:

"Against Armagh, we won it fair enough but we got a lucky goal or two and they missed a couple of goal chances," the Down boss tells The Irish News.

"There wasn't much in it. We went down to 14 men in that match. I wouldn't say it was comfortable. It is winner-takes-all on Saturday - it is the real championship.

"There is no back door or side door after this. It is all or nothing, but that is what you play championship for.

"In fairness to Armagh, they have done a hell of a lot of work in underage and with their development squads.

"That's why Armagh beat us two years ago. On the day, they were better and they were a better-prepared team. We will take nothing lightly, especially in local derbies.

"They have taken the game to Crossmaglen, so it is going to be a real test for us down there." Tweet

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