"If Tyrone shut him down, I think they have more firepower and more know-how"

June 03, 2023

Tyrone's Mattie Donnelly with Jason Duffy and Jarly Og Burns of Armagh. ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo.

Former Donegal star Brendan Devenney feels Tyrone’s desperation for a win could see them getting over the line in this evening’s crunch All-Ireland round 2 clash in Omagh (7pm).

After their defeat to Galway two weeks ago, the Red Hands are in sore need of points this weekend and welcome an Armagh side that put in a below par display before edging the win against Westmeath last time out.

Speaking to the Game On programme on RTE 2FM, Devenny reckons that Tyrone possesses “more firepower and more know-how” if they can keep the shackles on their neighbours - ace attacker Rian O'Neill in particular - at the other end of the field.

"The fact that Armagh have two points, maybe the pressure of a victory isn't as great as on Tyrone,” he said.

"Don't forget, Tyrone have lost their last four championship games. That seems remarkable for a team that we're saying could have a tilt at the All-Ireland.

"Where are Tyrone at in terms of championship? That remains to be seen.

"There's huge pressure on them. I know the last day (against Galway), they weren't happy with (referee David) Gough. They had the sending off of Burns and the Morgan black card, and they said that maybe restricted them.

"I think Armagh don't particularly want to play Tyrone now. I think Tyrone are really smarting and are desperate for the victory.

"If Armagh hang too much of their influence on Rian O'Neill, Tyrone will look forward to that. Hampsey, McNamee and - if he goes out the pitch - Meyler will enjoy having a cut at him.

"If Tyrone shut him down, I think they have more firepower and more know-how. This is a massive game to see where Tyrone are at this season."


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