Gall’s playing down favourites tag

BOB DYLAN may have recorded the album The Times They Are a Changin’ in 1963 and released the title single the following year, but the sentiment continues to be appropriate, even in the world of Ulster football.

It’s only three years ago that Crossmaglen beat St Gall’s in the provincial decider by three points, and while the Antrim men considered it a lost opportunity, most observers viewed their performance as a surprisingly competitive one against the might of the All-Ireland champions.

Tomorrow, the roles have been reversed quite spectacularly. Gall’s are the premier club team in Ireland while Crossmaglen are deemed to be on the wane, a shadow of their former selves despite annexing their 14th county title in 15 years by beating Dromintee by three points.

This time, it is the Milltown men that bear the burden of favouritism, whether they like it or not. Team manager, Lenny Harbinson isn’t buying into the notion that the Rangers are a spent force however.

After all, he witnessed at first hand the significant contributions made by the likes of Oisín McConville and Francie Bellew in that success, and with a nice blend in youth coming through as well, knows his crew are in for a titanic tussle.

“Crossmaglen are a very well organised team and are good in the tackle,” said Harbinson. “They still have a lot of experience in their team and I don’t buy into the idea that Cross are a new team.

“They’re also playing at home which is an advantage to them. They’re on the pitch every week and they know the lay of the land and which way the wind blows and it will certainly help them.”

Gall’s have their own quality though in the likes of the McGourty brothers, CJ and Kevin, Aodhan Gallagher, Kevin Niblock, Ronan Gallagher and Andy McClean.

They are on the crest of a wave that has seen them annex the Kilmacud Crokes All-Ireland sevens title as well this year, just a week before strolling to another county championship with nine points to spare over Cargin.

They have looked extremely comfortable with the favourites’ tag and it is evident that finally being successful at Croke Park on St Patrick’s Day after a couple of close calls has lifted a giant burden from their shoulders.

Harbinson doesn’t necessarily think that is the case however. As far as he is concerned, what happened in March is of no relevance now. Nor is the fact that Cross dented the Saints’ ambitions in 2007.

Not having played since the end of September is a concern though, especially as Cross had that very tough encounter with Dromintee just two weeks ago. “It is to a certain degree because five weeks is a long time, but having said that we’ve played a number of friendly games. It’s not the same as a real competitive championship game but we’re happy as we can be with our preparation.”