When Armagh were last on this stage in 2003, the game came to be remembered for ‘The Block’ as Conor Gormley denied Steven McDonnell what would have been a levelling goal as Tyrone won their first All-Ireland at their great rival’s expense.
This time, the boot was on the other foot as Joe McElroy threw himself at Paul Conroy in the final minute of the game as Galway chased the point that would have forced extra-time.
“I knew it was the last play or so. The ref was going to blow it, 76 minutes, I just had to get on his foot,” said McElroy.
After seeing so many championship contests slip away in the most cruel of manners, this time it was to be Armagh celebrating at the end of a game fine margins.
“We knew we had the players to come on and finish strong,” added McElroy.
“We went in at half-time level and we just knew we were always going to win that game.
“There was not a chance we were going to let that slip.
“The last four years, heartbreak, penalties, heartbreak and penalties. I don’t know how long it’s been since we were beaten in 70 minutes in championship football.
“Them boys never give up.”
