Armagh look to stay on top

They will be taking on Mayo in the Morgan Athletic Grounds in Armagh on Saturday night.

The news that suspensions to Malachy Mackin and Finnian Moriarty have been rescinded will provide the county with new hope.

But the suspended Kieran McKeever will miss this weekend’s match against the Westerners.

Mackin in particular, who last Friday night picked up the County Player of the Year award for 2011, has been in great form this season and was instrumental in Armagh’s recent shock victory in Tralee over Kerry.

The highlight of the win in the Kingdom was the performance of the defence marshalled by the impressive Brendan Donaghy.

But with Kieran McKeever absent Paddy O’Rourke could recruit Maghery’s James Lavery to the midfield sector and possibly hand Charlie Vernon the number six jersey.

Up front Eugene McVery and Aidan Forker continue to impress.

Forker hit four points against Kerry in Tralee and he looks to have a bright future.

The news surrounding Ronan Clarke is more promising than in recent times.

The Pearse Ogs man is back in full training and he could be included in the squad at some stage during the summer.

However it hasn’t been confirmed yet whether or not Steven McDonnell has decided to rejoin the squad following a break from the game.

Armagh, who were favourites in some circles to be relegated this season, are currently on top of division one with a win and a draw to their credit.

But with tough games against Mayo on Saturday and against Dublin, Laois and Donegal still to come nothing can be taken for granted.

Whilst good performances were seen against Kerry and Cork the pressure will be on Paddy O’Rourke’s side to register a win at home on Saturday night.