Ulster SFC final: Will fourth time be the charm for Armagh in Ulster?

When Armagh ended a 17-year wait to return to the top in Ulster in 1999, it sparked emotions as Orchard moved into the All-Ireland series for the first time since 1982.

Of course, they are guaranteed to be in the running for Sam Maguire this year and already know they will host Derry in the opening round of the new-look competition at the end of May – the timing of the draw before the provincial final is a source of much controversy.

Knowing they have a meeting with the Oak Leafs to plan, will this shed light on this weekend’s provincial finals?

“An Ulster championship is still a huge prize,” Gilligan insisted.

“Everybody wanted it over the years, so I don’t think it’s diluted that much and deserves the award itself.

“When you’re not in a provincial final, the (preliminary All-Ireland) draw is brilliant for you because it gives you time to plan but if you’re in one, the draw being two weeks out is probably a barrier.”

Monaghan, in the same boat as this week’s finalists, are also aware they have an All-Ireland opener against Mayo to consider, but an Ulster title remains a big prize for both teams.

For Armagh’s All-Ireland medalists in 2024, adding an Ulster title would represent ticking off another major title, but Monaghan – despite being ruled out in some quarters before the championship due to poor league promotion – would represent a serious test.

“When you have players like (Rory) Beggan, (Zack) McCarron and Dessie Ward, you’re never out of a game because they have so many two-point specialists,” Gilligan said of their opponents.

“One thing Monaghan has is serious quality and their players really fit the new rules.”