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.