McConville's musings

By Denise Watson
BBC Sport

Oisin McConville has been a tremendous servant for Armagh

Fans eagerly await the Ulster Championship tie on 27 May - Donegal v Armagh at Ballybofey which is a repeat of last year's provincial final.

Armagh came out on top on that occasion but this time many are tipping Donegal to dethrone the champions.

They've the National League title already stashed away and you get the feeling that Brian McIver's men are hungry for more.

But all the limelight on Donegal will surely delight Armagh as they quietly focus on their strategy for the clash.

Knowing Armagh's pedigree, there is little danger of Joe Kernan's side lying down in awe of any opposition.

Underestimate them at your peril.

I decided to chase down the man who last year became the leading scorer in Ulster Championship history - Oisin McConville but I had my work cut out getting hold of the elusive 31-year-old.

The Armagh squad are just back from warm weather training in La Manga - five days of punishing tasks designed to boost their fitness levels.

Of course the recent criticism about Armagh and our chances does annoy me Oisin McConville

And it was also a chance for the experienced men to bond with the numerous new faces who've moved into the panel in recent times.

With the All-Ireland Club final going to a replay between Dr Crokes and Crossmaglen Rangers, Oisin has had little "me time" outside of his sport - although he did manage to go to New York following that memorable fourth record title win for Rangers.

So is he ready for 27 May?

"Donegal are the in-form team, there's no doubt about that. They're very tight in defence and very physically strong," says McConville.

"Of course the recent criticism about Armagh and our chances does annoy me but I try to be positive. You know, sometimes it's the supporters' comments which can be more harsh," he says.

And what are his thoughts on missing a close friend and legendary Aramgh player Francie Bellew for the campaign?

"Oh it's a huge loss for us. Francie's a cult figure - the fans and players love him. He's quiet but very tough and brings out the best in players.

"He gives us security at full-back and he's devastated to be missing the campaign. He has to do rehab to get back but that might be hard as he's 31 now, " he says.

Oisin believes Ciaran Toner (right) will start against Donegal

The same age as Oisin, I point out. Any plans for McConville to retire in the near future then?

"I haven't decided if it's my last year at county level.

"It's hard to train in the cold winter months like January and February. I've devoted 14 years to it and sometimes I think - yeah - it's time for a break but it'll be hard to leave it behind.

"But, you know, I don't want to cling on forever."

Armagh will look to youth to bring glory and there are some talented players emerging and starting to make their name on the senior panel.

"Ciaran Toner will play in the midfield against Donegal. He's a special talent - Dedicated with a good attitude.

"He's big and strong and has good feet and hands. And Maghery player James Lavery is on the verge of breaking through. He's a good midfielder too.

My only regret is that my Dad had died in 1999 and never saw my greatest triumph Oisin McConville

"And current under 21 forward Stefan Forker - who's also from Maghery - is an emerging star."

It's hard to believe that it's five years since Armagh lifted Sam and Oisin's goal in that 2002 final is a memory he'll cherish forever.

"My Mum Margaret and family were there to celebrate with me. My only regret is that my Dad had died in 1999 and never saw my greatest triumph."

A year later is was a memory of a different kind though as they watched Tyrone snatch the All-Ireland crown from their grasp.

"Oh the worst, worst! We had nothing to show that year as we'd been beaten by Monaghan in the first round as well. My reaction? Gutted! So gutted! It was galling to watch Tyrone of all sides be victorious!"

The stats mark out Oisin as the most prolific player in Ulster Championship history but he modestly plays down that plaudit.

"I don't know about that. I've had a decent career. But Peter Canavan's pretty good!"

An Armagh man praising a Tyrone man and shows true the recognition of class will always over-ride even the most serious of intercounty rivalries.