Gavin McParland sensational for Armagh in Dr McKenna Cup win

Armagh 2-11 St Mary’s 0-14: A stunning 2-4 contribution from livewire corner-forward Gavin McParland underpinned this hard-earned Bank of Ireland Dr McKenna Cup win for Armagh at the saturated Athletic Grounds last night.

St Mary’s looked lively in the first quarter and led 0-4 to 0-1 with Ryan Johnston (2), Jack Grugan and Thomas Canavan on target. But Armagh found their feet and enjoyed parity when McParland complemented his four points up until then with a penalty.

St Mary’s, though, led still led 0-11 to 1-5 at the break but Armagh’s power and physique surfaced in the second-half and McParland’s second goal cemented their dominance.