Ten years on, Canavan makes his point count

Armagh 1-12 Tyrone 1-13

Joe Kernan's team suffered the sucker-punch of a controversial free expertly converted by Peter Canavan in the 72nd minute, shattering their dreams of a place in the All-Ireland football final with Kerry. For Tyrone hero Canavan, there was the delicious irony of the free being awarded by Tipperary referee Paddy Russell, who ten years ago in the final against Dublin disallowed the injury-time 'point' created by Canavan which denied Tyrone a draw.

Arguably the most intriguing semi-final of recent years, it was played at punishing pace all through, was every bit as close as predicted and, happily, was free of rancour. With the outcome as uncertain nearing the finish as it had been all week, it took a bit of Canavan magic to decide it with a superb kick from about 40 yards out on the left flank. Considering his unsatisfactory season so far and his 1995 history with Russell, it was the ultimate redemption for him and his manager.