Both teams had already earned promotion to Division One before a tight all-Ulster showdown in Dublin was won by a Donegal side rejuvenated under manager Jim McGuinness.

“That was main challenge of the year – to get out of Division Two, to get promoted and we’ve achieved that,” Thompson told TG4.

“Anytime you get to play at Croke Park for a national title it’s always nice to win so it’s another tick in the book.

“The whole set-up with Jim and the backroom staff has been really top class. I think everyone has bought in, it’s just so positive to work under him and work under the coaches.”

Colm McFadden is one of those coaches and he looked ahead to an Ulster SFC opener against holders Derry, who won the Division One title on Sunday.

“We knew Armagh were always going to be a tough test – they always come back and showed that in the second half,” he said.

“To come through the game without any injuries and with every player still fit is important for us.

“It’s nice to win and to get some silverware. I hope it sets us up for the championship – it’s three weeks to the Derry game and that’s our focus now.”