Ulster’s on fire as change is in the air
ALONG with Mayo-galway, Tyrone-monaghan was one of the standout fixtures when the Championship draw was made.
But I expect this game will be far better and more engaging than the one in Connacht.
Don’t hold your breath waiting for an outbreak of fancy football but I’ve noticed a mindset change in Ulster with regard to how they play the game of late.
There seems to be an awareness that people were falling out of love with the style of football and if Donegal-cavan is anything to go by, it’s changing.
In the latter stages of the League, Tyrone tried to play more progressive football and Malachy O’rourke is developing Monaghan’s style too; they’re not as reliant on Conor Mcmanus as they once were.
It’s a colossal game. I feel that Monaghan would struggle to navigate the qualifiers were they to lose and their year might peter out if that happens.
Tyrone scored 5-43 in their last three League games and Stephen O’neill’s impact is starting to be felt.
Whether they sustain that or revert to their old tactics, we’ll have to wait and see.
But if they stay positive I expect them to progress to the Ulster semi-final.
Brewster Park won’t be a place for the faint hearted this evening, with Fermanagh taking on Armagh.
I expect it to be ferocious and very tight, with Armagh to sneak through.