This afternoon's qualifier between Armagh and Donegal was billed as a massive game, a clash of two teams that should have genuine ambitions of going into the latter stages of the championship.
While we may have expected a close contest in Clones, the reality turned out to be far different.
Donegal were no match for their Ulster rivals, with Armagh running out as comfortable ten-point winners on a scoreline of 3-17 to 0-16. It was a margin of victory that in no way flattered Kieran McGeeney's side, who played all of the football over the course of the 70 minutes.
Some of their scores were breathtaking, including this stunner right from the throw-in.
Now that's what you call a fast start to a big championship game 👀pic.twitter.com/FT4UCGs0lu
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) June 12, 2022
The game was over as a contest midway through the second half, with Donegal putting in yet another disappointing performance on the big stage. However, this was certainly Armagh's day.
Sean Cavanagh impressed with Armagh
Speaking on The Sunday Game, Sean Cavanagh said that this performance from Armagh was further proof that they were the 'real deal' and could threaten any team in the country as we enter the All-Ireland series.
"They're here to stay"
Sean Cavanagh believes Armagh are the "real deal" and pose a threat to every team in the quarter-final draw after they saw off Donegal #rtegaa pic.twitter.com/DaqtbrtVQw— The Sunday Game (@TheSundayGame) June 12, 2022
Armagh are the real deal, it's as simple as that. They're here to stay.
They showed in the early stages of the league what they're capable of. They kind of went into hibernation since then, but in the last few weeks we've them come out of their shell. We've seen the potential that we know is there, we've seen the attacking intent that they have.
They have great variety, they're in unbelievable condition, they're tough at the back, making hard runs all over the pitch, in sync with their management.
There will be nobody that wants to see this Armagh team in tomorrow morning's draw...
I think this Armagh team is well set for Croke Park. They plan an expansive game and have lots of players, particularly at the top end of the pitch, that can win their contests. Their kicking game is evolving really well.
I think they're the one name, and obviously Mayo being Mayo, that none of the provincial winners will want to see coming.
Tomorrow's draw will certainly be an interesting one. Dublin and Kerry will be on one side of the draw, with Armagh likely hoping to come out on the opposite side of the bracket in the hopes being handed a slightly easier route to an All-Ireland decider.
Regardless of who the Ulster county draw, they will fancy their chances of recording a victory considering their recent form.
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