'We weren't great, but dug deep'

April 13, 2026

Armagh manager Kieran McGeeney ©INPHO/Tom O'Hanlon

Kieran McGeeney was experiencing mixed emotions after Armagh edged out neighbours Tyrone after extra-time in their Ulster SFC preliminary round clash at the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds.

Conor Turbitt’s late point handed the Orchard County a 1-17 to 1-16 win over their old rivals after Darragh McMullen was sent off on a second yellow card in the closing stages of normal time.

"We weren't great, to be honest I thought it was probably our worst performance of the year," the Armagh manager told RTÉ.

"In saying that, it would have been easier to put the heads down. We were down to 14 men for a big part of the game in extra-time.

"The most important part is the fellas dug really deep and you have to be proud of them in that regard. They're not playing well and being able to work out a game, especially against Tyrone.

"It wasn't our best performance, but definitely showed a lot of character."

Tyrone failed to fire in their Allianz League Division 2 campaign, but McGeeney wasn’t surprised to see them push his team all the way.

"I've never played against Tyrone where it hasn't gone down to the wire. I was telling everybody this week it'll be down to a one-point game, a two-point game.

"I suppose all the experts know better but we're delighted to come out of it; showed real composure,” he added.


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