Armagh are back in the Ulster Senior Football Championship final this Sunday, and they're hoping the fourth time really is the charm. After three consecutive years of heartbreak in the decider, Kieran McGeeney's men face Monaghan in Clones, desperate to end an 18-year wait for provincial silverware.

It's been a rollercoaster ride for the Orchard County. Since Paul McGrane lifted the Anglo-Celt Cup in 2008, Armagh fans have known more pain than glory on Ulster final day. The recent trilogy of defeats has been particularly cruel—not just the losses, but the way they've happened.

In 2023, Armagh went toe-to-toe with defending champions Derry in a pulsating final that went all the way to penalties. Oak Leaf goalkeeper Odhran Lynch emerged as the hero, denying Armagh at the death. Twelve months later, it was a different opponent but the same script. Donegal, managed by Jim McGuinness, edged another shootout, leaving Armagh crestfallen for the second year running.

Then came 2025, and perhaps the most gut-wrenching of all. No penalties this time, but Niall O'Donnell broke Armagh hearts with an extra-time winner in a final that seemed destined for another dramatic finish. Three finals, three different ways to lose.

But here's the thing about champions—they keep coming back. And Armagh know a thing or two about ultimate glory, having claimed the county's second-ever All-Ireland title in 2024. That Sam Maguire triumph proved this group has the quality and character to go all the way. Now, they want to add the provincial crown to their collection.

"The supporters maybe feel it a wee bit more passionately, and like the players, they've been there on days where they've suffered bad defeats," said team coach Conleith Gilligan. "They've come very close, undone on penalties, extra-time and all the rest, but ultimately we didn't win those games. You want to put yourself in a position where you don't feel that disappointment again."

Standing in their way is a Monaghan side that will be eager to spoil the party. The Farney County have their own ambitions and won't be fazed by Armagh's pedigree or recent All-Ireland success.

Will lady luck finally shine on Armagh this Sunday? Maybe. But as Gilligan hinted, it's going to take more than fortune to break this 18-year drought. It'll take performance, composure, and the ability to finish the job when it matters most.

For Armagh's players and their loyal fans, Sunday represents another shot at redemption. After three years of near-misses, they'll be hoping the fourth time really is the charm.