Custodian or game-breaker: Armagh's keeper dilemma as Ethan Rafferty returns to fitness

Ethan Rafferty's return to fitness leaves Kieran McGeeney with a major selection dilemma and risk assessment ahead of Armagh's Ulster final against Donegal.

In the absence of McGeeney's first choice goalkeeper, Blaine Hughes has been in excellent form throughout the league and Ulster championship. But the decision to stick with Hughes or bring back Rafferty goes far deeper than just two goalkeepers fighting for the number one jersey.

The case for Rafferty is a remarkable 1-05 from play and 1-09 in total in less than two seasons, as opposed to three frees and nothing from play in nearly seven for Hughes. While the latter can point to the basics - a 91% kick-out retention in Armagh's two meetings so far against Donegal this year and eight clean sheets in 10 games in 2024.

Rafferty is a converted inter-county midfielder or half-forward whose inclusion exemplifies risk versus reward, while Hughes is a traditional goalkeeper with a quick kick-out and excellent shot-stopping qualities.

The tactical implications around this selection call will impact how both teams set up, and in the aftermath of this provincial decider it could prove to be the biggest decision McGeeney makes this week.

In last year's Ulster final, Rafferty came out the field for 45 in-play involvements (32 prior to extra-time) which included kicking two points, kicking two wides, assisting two scores and making six line breaks. Stats which most outfield players would be proud of - but Rafferty did play outfield for Armagh and when it comes to kicking and catching there are still few more talented options in the county than the big left footer.

In contrast Hughes has had 24 in-play involvements in the 2024 championship thus far, with no shots, assists, or line