As the Ulster Senior Football Championship kicks off this Sunday, all eyes are on the Athletic Grounds for a tantalizing preliminary round clash between Armagh and Tyrone. While the Orchard men enter as firm favorites, selector Conleith Gilligan is adamant his squad is far too savvy to buy into that narrative.

"Our players are cute enough not to underestimate Tyrone," Gilligan stated, emphasizing the deep respect within the camp. He pointed to the intense local rivalry and Tyrone's pedigree at underage levels as reasons for caution, ensuring no Armagh player is under any illusion about the quality they will face.

Despite Armagh securing their Division One status and Tyrone remaining in Division Two, Gilligan sees parallels in their league campaigns. Both sides felt they left potential wins on the table, and with the league now in the rearview, every team is searching for that one statement victory to ignite their summer. For Tyrone, what bigger spark than an upset win in Armagh?

"Every team's looking for that one big win to ignite their summer. From a Tyrone perspective, going to Armagh to do that would be high on their list of priorities," Gilligan noted, highlighting the high-stakes nature of this provincial derby.

Armagh's recent history also serves as a warning. Gilligan referenced last year's surprise defeat to Kerry as a "prime example" of what can happen when expectations are not managed. With key players like Joe McElroy, Andrew Murnin, and Barry McCambridge nearing fitness but facing late decisions, the condensed season adds another layer of complexity, forcing teams to balance risk and reward with the championship on the line.

This matchup promises more than just a place in the quarter-finals against Fermanagh; it's a classic Ulster battle where form guides are often torn up. Armagh may be favored, but as Gilligan knows, in championship football, readiness and mentality are just as crucial as talent.