Armagh streak ahead in first half

Half time: Armagh 2-08 Monaghan 0-02

Both Ronan Clarke and Steven McDonnell have chipped in with 1-2 as 2002 All-Ireland champions Armagh lead Monaghan 2-8 to 0-2 at half time in Clones.

Paul Finlay and Dick Clerkin, shifted from half back to full forward, have claimed Monaghan's only points as the Orchard's tactic of playing in long high balls is paying off.

Skipper Kieran McGeeney failed to start, with Ciaran Hughes taking his place in the number six jersey.