Armagh's depth key for chances of success, says Lauren McConville

Michael Bolton

After winning another Ulster title, Armagh Ladies' eyes are firmly set on the ultimate goal of the Brendan Martin Cup.

From tight margins in semi-finals to injuries to key players, luck has not been on Armagh's side in recent years.

Despite All-Ireland setbacks, they have been able to regroup and win Ulster and league titles, with McConville as captain key to their progress.

Victory over Tyrone was a sixth for Lauren McConville, who knows how hard it can be to win a provincial title.

"A lot of them would have six or seven on the team," says McConville.

"I am lucky I won my first in 2014, but it was 2021 that I got another.

"It is still special. I know we have won three in a row now, but you never know when the next one will be so you have to go after it."

Having seen the success of the men winning the All-Ireland in 2024 and ending their wait for an Ulster title, it is exciting times across the county.

Similar to Kieran McGeeney's men, small margins have cost the team in crucial moments.

Armagh's ladies reached the semi-finals in 2024, where they were defeated by eventual winners Kerry. Last season, a shock group stage exit ended their hopes.

A side full of talent and will be backed by many to be a contender in the summer. McConville says every squad member will be key for their challenge, especially with big names back from injury and Australia.

"The depth of our panel is really going to be the difference for us this year. We have got a few players coming from underage in the last couple of years.

"They are now turning into exceptional leaders in the team. We are also getting a massive impact from our bench.

"We were quite unfortunate with a number of injuries. Aimee (Mackin) had her ACL injury. Blaithin has been over and back to Australia. It is tough going over and back year in, year out.

"That bit of stability that we have - everyone available - will really stand to us."

A niece of Oisín McConville, and a cousin of Rian O'Neil, it is very much a family affair for Lauren, who has always had sport as a key part of her life.

The first test for Armagh will be Cork this weekend, followed by Waterford.

With the combination of the new rules and some key players leaving some of the main challengers, the Armagh defender is expecting an open championship.

"You have Division Two teams coming in there for the senior championship. Looking at the groups, we have Cork and Waterford, which is a really tough group.

"There is no easy draw in this championship. It is a testament to how far ladies' football has come that all these different teams perform at such a high level now.

"It is great for the sport, but it is difficult when you are coming up against these teams. It is going to be tough from here on."