The best day in the Calendar. The third Sunday of September, All-Ireland final Day. Thirty-three teams started out at the start of they year in the hope of reaching the final at Croke Park. Despite a spirited effort, Donegal just fell short. But there is always next year, as any liverpool fan will tell you.
However, the show must go on, and Kerry and Dublin will play out one of the most eagerly awaited finals in recent memory. After 16 long years, the Dubs are finally back on the third Sunday, and I have to say, I'd be delighted to see Brian Cullen hold the Cup at the end of the seventy minutes.
Cullen, Stephen Cluxton, and Alan Brogan in particular, have been great servants to Dublin and the GAA, and they deserve their day in the sun.Pat Gilroy has superbly managed his team this year. He has killed the hype and managed to keep his players grounded. He even took the unprecedented step of hosting their press day two weeks before the final. They are focused and are well prepared for the Kingdom, showing their brilliance against Tyrone, and also the abilty to grind out a result against Donegal.
Kerry, on the other hand, have had a reasonably easy passage through to the final. They dealt with Tipperary and Limerick (Twice) without much fuss, and got over a stubborn Mayo side in the semi without ever looking like being defeated. However, they did struggle against Cork for 30 minutes of the Munster final, as the Rebels showed up Kerry's defensive frailties.
In my opinion, the game will be decided by the full back lines. Kerry's has looked dodgy all year, and they will be severly tested by Bernard and Alan Brogan, along with Diarmuid Connolly. In contrast, the Dubs have received plaudits all season, for their mean defence. But they have not encountered anything like the ability of Colm Cooper, Kieran Donaghy, Darran or Declan O'Sullivan, thus far.
The big talking point is the omission of Paul Galvin from the Kerry starting line up. He is far too important to the team, to be sitting on the bench. And while I understand what an impact he would give to the team if he arrived in the second half, you simply don't confine one of your best players to the role of 'super sub'. Tipperary learnt that the hard way two weeks ago, when they didn't start Brendan Maher. I don't expect the Kerry management to make the same mistake.
Kerry have been accused of having to much milage on the legs, but this also means a lot of experimence. They have a lot of big game temperment, and they come alive in Croke Park. They are a team of winners, and I can't see them doing anything else but win on Sunday. The kingdom by two.
Thursday, 15 September 2011
Friday, 26 August 2011
David versus Goliath
After four long, restless weeks, D-day is finally upon us. Thousands of culchies will invade our nation's capital, for Donegal's biggest sporting occasion since the All-Ireland final of 1992.
Ironically, the Dubs were the opposition that day too, and we all know what a historical day that was. Dublin were massive favourites, but were defeated by a far hungrier Donegal side.
Similarly, Donegal aren't given much of a chance this time either. The bookies and pundits are united in their prediction, believing that we will put it up to them, but inevitably, we will lack the firepower to make the final. Little Donegal will be caught out against the big boys.
Their opinions are primarily based on Dublin's emphatic victory over Tyrone in the quarter final. And to be fair, their performance was awesome. Their score-taking, movement, defending, almost ever aspect of their game was top-notch.
But it was only one performance. Apart from that, they have been quite ordinary in their other games. Against Wexford, they were poor, they were lucky against Kildare, they beat Laois without ever getting out of second gear.
If Dublin were playing Kildare this weekend, I have no doubt that some of the pundits would have backed Kildare to win. Yet, kildare weren't good enough to beat Donegal, so maybe we will get closer than most pundits are predicting.
Of course, it has been said all year that Dublin's aim is to peak for the big games, but the question still remains can they put two excellent performances back to back?
My bet is that they can't. Diarmuid Connolly was fantastic against Tyrone. But he blows hot and cold. For every brilliant performance scoring seven points, there is another dismal performance waiting around the corner, when he's likely to be taking off before half-time. I'd love to see Eamon McGee brought in to the side to mark him, and really test Connolly's questionable temperment.
Dublin looked very impressive against Tyrone, but any team can look good when they get off to a good start. Donegal have to start well. They need to frustrate the Dubs, get in their faces, slow the game down, do what ever they have to do, to kill Dublin's momentum. Then we will see, what Dublin are really made of.
Much of the pre-match excitement has been over the key battles between the Brogans, and Neil McGee and Karl Lacey. However, I'm not convinced that Lacey will mark Alan Brogan. He has been so effective at centre half back, sweeping up in front of the full forward line and driving Donegal out of defence. I think Frank McGlynn will pick up Brogan, and Lacey will stay at no.6.
If Donegal are to win, it is going to take big performances from our key players, especially Michael Murphy. He should have recovered from the injury that stopped him from starting against Kildare, and we really need him to deliver. It was notable last week, that Kerry's captain, Colm Cooper, rose to the big game occasion and sent his team to the final. We need a similar performance from our captain.
Somebody said to me during the week, that they hoped Donegal would be pumped up for the match. If a player could walk out in front of a packed Croke Park, with 60,000 dubs trying their best to intimidate them, and he couldn't get pumped up for the game, then he shouldn't be playing. This is what Sport is all about. Big games, big crowds, big performances.
Shamrock Rovers showed us last night, that underdogs can win. It will take a huge performance from Donegal, but they can do it. After all, David did slay Goliath, and Donegal can slay Dublin.
Ironically, the Dubs were the opposition that day too, and we all know what a historical day that was. Dublin were massive favourites, but were defeated by a far hungrier Donegal side.
Similarly, Donegal aren't given much of a chance this time either. The bookies and pundits are united in their prediction, believing that we will put it up to them, but inevitably, we will lack the firepower to make the final. Little Donegal will be caught out against the big boys.
Their opinions are primarily based on Dublin's emphatic victory over Tyrone in the quarter final. And to be fair, their performance was awesome. Their score-taking, movement, defending, almost ever aspect of their game was top-notch.
But it was only one performance. Apart from that, they have been quite ordinary in their other games. Against Wexford, they were poor, they were lucky against Kildare, they beat Laois without ever getting out of second gear.
If Dublin were playing Kildare this weekend, I have no doubt that some of the pundits would have backed Kildare to win. Yet, kildare weren't good enough to beat Donegal, so maybe we will get closer than most pundits are predicting.
Of course, it has been said all year that Dublin's aim is to peak for the big games, but the question still remains can they put two excellent performances back to back?
My bet is that they can't. Diarmuid Connolly was fantastic against Tyrone. But he blows hot and cold. For every brilliant performance scoring seven points, there is another dismal performance waiting around the corner, when he's likely to be taking off before half-time. I'd love to see Eamon McGee brought in to the side to mark him, and really test Connolly's questionable temperment.
Dublin looked very impressive against Tyrone, but any team can look good when they get off to a good start. Donegal have to start well. They need to frustrate the Dubs, get in their faces, slow the game down, do what ever they have to do, to kill Dublin's momentum. Then we will see, what Dublin are really made of.
Much of the pre-match excitement has been over the key battles between the Brogans, and Neil McGee and Karl Lacey. However, I'm not convinced that Lacey will mark Alan Brogan. He has been so effective at centre half back, sweeping up in front of the full forward line and driving Donegal out of defence. I think Frank McGlynn will pick up Brogan, and Lacey will stay at no.6.
If Donegal are to win, it is going to take big performances from our key players, especially Michael Murphy. He should have recovered from the injury that stopped him from starting against Kildare, and we really need him to deliver. It was notable last week, that Kerry's captain, Colm Cooper, rose to the big game occasion and sent his team to the final. We need a similar performance from our captain.
Somebody said to me during the week, that they hoped Donegal would be pumped up for the match. If a player could walk out in front of a packed Croke Park, with 60,000 dubs trying their best to intimidate them, and he couldn't get pumped up for the game, then he shouldn't be playing. This is what Sport is all about. Big games, big crowds, big performances.
Shamrock Rovers showed us last night, that underdogs can win. It will take a huge performance from Donegal, but they can do it. After all, David did slay Goliath, and Donegal can slay Dublin.
Wednesday, 3 August 2011
Summers turning into Autumns
Tension, anxiety, excitement, fear, hope, the most incredible satisfaction, you name it, we felt it. July 30th, 2011, a day that will live long in the memory of every man, woman and child from Donegal.
It was like an action film, that Quentin Tarantino would have been proud to put his name to. Two teams throwing everything they had at each other, under the shining lights of Croker. No team deserved to lose, but someone, somewhere was smiling on the Green and Gold.
People will point to the square ball as the turning point. And it was, Donegal would not have come back from that setback. I have sympathy for kildare, and for the referee David Coldrick. They are hard decisions to call, split second decisions, and he doesn't get a second look at it. In the times that we are now living in, why we don't use technology, that would eliminate human error, is beyond me.
But Kildare were three points up, still in the driving seat, and they should not have let the game slip away. Ironically, in a team so disciplined and organised as kildare, their downfall was not following the simple basics. When a player is substituted, his marker should immediately pick up his replacement. For what ever reason, Hugh McGrillen (who it has to be said, had a great game), decided to give Christy Toye the freedom of Croke Park, and when his chance arrived he buried it to the back of the net.
Donegal defended brilliantly throughout, but they most certainly played their best football when they chased the game. Chances and scoring opportunities arose more frequently, as Donegal players pushed further up the field. This leaves McGuinnessn in a dificult position. Does he leave the effective defensive system the way it is, or does he tweak it slightly in the hope of scoring more?
In my opinion, the two most important scores in the game, bear an uncanny resemblence. Mark McHugh's point with the last kick of the first half, and Karl Lacey's point on the final whistle of the first period of extra time, were hugely significant scores for Donegal. Both kicks were taking from nearly the exact same position, both players showed great determination to score their points, and both men ensured that Donegal went in at those breaks with only a two point deficit. The difference between a two point lead and a three point is massive.
Once again, Lacey and McGee were phenomenal. No point in waiting, they may as well get the tuxedo ready for the All-Star Banquet. Frank McGlynn (after a poor start) and Ryan Bradley put in great shifts, while the leadership shown by Murphy and Cassidy was incredible. I'd imagine that Cassidy will never have to buy a pint in the county again, after his majestic kick.
Obviously, there is a lot of work to do. Croke Park is very unforgiving, and if you're not up to the job, you will soon be found out at Headquarters. McBrearty, McFadden, McGrath and Rafferty, in particular , will not be happy with their showings, and a big improvement is needed if Donegal will be attending on the third Sunday of September. The first half was truly dreadful to watch, and if Donegal play as bad as that again, they will lose.
However, last Saturday night will stand to them. We are now sitting at the top table of Gaelic football, and are awaiting the winners of Dublin and Tyrone in an All-Ireland semi-final. Who would have predicted that at the start of the year?
Don't you just love it when Championship Summers turn into Championship Autumns?
It was like an action film, that Quentin Tarantino would have been proud to put his name to. Two teams throwing everything they had at each other, under the shining lights of Croker. No team deserved to lose, but someone, somewhere was smiling on the Green and Gold.
People will point to the square ball as the turning point. And it was, Donegal would not have come back from that setback. I have sympathy for kildare, and for the referee David Coldrick. They are hard decisions to call, split second decisions, and he doesn't get a second look at it. In the times that we are now living in, why we don't use technology, that would eliminate human error, is beyond me.
But Kildare were three points up, still in the driving seat, and they should not have let the game slip away. Ironically, in a team so disciplined and organised as kildare, their downfall was not following the simple basics. When a player is substituted, his marker should immediately pick up his replacement. For what ever reason, Hugh McGrillen (who it has to be said, had a great game), decided to give Christy Toye the freedom of Croke Park, and when his chance arrived he buried it to the back of the net.
Donegal defended brilliantly throughout, but they most certainly played their best football when they chased the game. Chances and scoring opportunities arose more frequently, as Donegal players pushed further up the field. This leaves McGuinnessn in a dificult position. Does he leave the effective defensive system the way it is, or does he tweak it slightly in the hope of scoring more?
In my opinion, the two most important scores in the game, bear an uncanny resemblence. Mark McHugh's point with the last kick of the first half, and Karl Lacey's point on the final whistle of the first period of extra time, were hugely significant scores for Donegal. Both kicks were taking from nearly the exact same position, both players showed great determination to score their points, and both men ensured that Donegal went in at those breaks with only a two point deficit. The difference between a two point lead and a three point is massive.
Once again, Lacey and McGee were phenomenal. No point in waiting, they may as well get the tuxedo ready for the All-Star Banquet. Frank McGlynn (after a poor start) and Ryan Bradley put in great shifts, while the leadership shown by Murphy and Cassidy was incredible. I'd imagine that Cassidy will never have to buy a pint in the county again, after his majestic kick.
Obviously, there is a lot of work to do. Croke Park is very unforgiving, and if you're not up to the job, you will soon be found out at Headquarters. McBrearty, McFadden, McGrath and Rafferty, in particular , will not be happy with their showings, and a big improvement is needed if Donegal will be attending on the third Sunday of September. The first half was truly dreadful to watch, and if Donegal play as bad as that again, they will lose.
However, last Saturday night will stand to them. We are now sitting at the top table of Gaelic football, and are awaiting the winners of Dublin and Tyrone in an All-Ireland semi-final. Who would have predicted that at the start of the year?
Don't you just love it when Championship Summers turn into Championship Autumns?
Friday, 29 July 2011
Donegal - Kildare preview
Two years ago, I faced into the August Bank Holiday weekend in a confident mood. Donegal had just beaten Derry and Galway in impressive fashion and the tae and hang sandwiches were packed and ready for an assault on Croker.
We played against Cork, who were Munster Champions. They were a strong physical side, who never seemed to win when it really mattered. They were fit, had a determined manager, were strong at midfield, yet lacked a real top class forward line. It was there poor forward line that I, as a young and naive man, believed would be there downfall and I predicted a victory for the green and gold. It wasn't. They won by 14 points, and they're average forward line raised the healthy sum of 1-27.
Kildare in many ways approach this years quarter final in a similar position to Cork two years ago. In Kieran McGeeney, they have a determined, hungry manager. They are excellent at midfield, they are very fit, however, doubts remain over whether their forward line is really top notch. So after the Cork fiasco, you'll forgive me, if I'm a little bit cautious.
Donegal are now Ulster Champions, their objective at the start of the year, and what ever happens from now until the end of the season will be a bonus. But the draw has been kind. Avoiding both Cork and Kerry until the All-Ireland final is a fantastic incentive. Dublin or Tyrone, ( Roscommon haven't a hope) are more than beatable at the semi-final stage, if of course, Donegal can beat the Lilywhites on Saturday.
John Doyle, their talismatic captain, is a superb player, and will take a lot of watching. However, I, like most Donegal supporters, will be delighted to see him playing around midfield, and not closer to the goalposts, where he could cause more damage. With Rory Kavanagh not expected to play, Matin McElhinney will really have to stand up and show if he is capable of playing at this level.
In Tomas O'Connor, Kildare have a traditional full forward. Strong and fast, he links up well with the other forwards. But he will get nothing easy on Saturday. Neil McGee loves a physical tussle with his opponent (I'm reffering to Gaelic football, obviously), and he is more than capable of keeping O'Connor quiet.
Kildare create lots of scoring opportunities, and have posted high tallies throughout the year. But they won't do that this week. Donegal's tackling is tenacious, and they will force Kildare in to positions that their not comfortable in. My main worry from Donegal's perspective, is Emmet Bolton. He will more than likely pick up Mark McHugh and as he drops back, Bolton will have lots of space to influence the game. He has been in excellent form this year, and is a regular scorer for Kildare. If he is allowed to roam the pitch freely on Saturday, Donegal will be in big bother.
Eammon Callaghan is in Ft's opinion the most underrated player in the country. He has pace, skill and always scores a couple of points. He should have to much craft and guile for Anthony Thompson and I believe Donegal should put McGrath on Callaghan to try and curb his influence.
At the other end of the pitch, Michael Murphy and Colm McFadden should have too much ability for their markers. But, Geezer was probably the most effective player in the last twenty years at sweeping in front of danger forwards, and no doubt he'll have some plan to counteract Donegal's dangerous duo.
The game will be tight and tough, and I expect it to be it low scoring. There definately won't be 14 points in it, like the last time Donegal played in a quarter final against Cork. The big question is will Donegal's defensive system work at Croke Park? I think it will, and I for one cannot wait to seen McGeeney's smug face and ridiculous hairstyle knocked well and truly out of the Championship.
We played against Cork, who were Munster Champions. They were a strong physical side, who never seemed to win when it really mattered. They were fit, had a determined manager, were strong at midfield, yet lacked a real top class forward line. It was there poor forward line that I, as a young and naive man, believed would be there downfall and I predicted a victory for the green and gold. It wasn't. They won by 14 points, and they're average forward line raised the healthy sum of 1-27.
Kildare in many ways approach this years quarter final in a similar position to Cork two years ago. In Kieran McGeeney, they have a determined, hungry manager. They are excellent at midfield, they are very fit, however, doubts remain over whether their forward line is really top notch. So after the Cork fiasco, you'll forgive me, if I'm a little bit cautious.
Donegal are now Ulster Champions, their objective at the start of the year, and what ever happens from now until the end of the season will be a bonus. But the draw has been kind. Avoiding both Cork and Kerry until the All-Ireland final is a fantastic incentive. Dublin or Tyrone, ( Roscommon haven't a hope) are more than beatable at the semi-final stage, if of course, Donegal can beat the Lilywhites on Saturday.
John Doyle, their talismatic captain, is a superb player, and will take a lot of watching. However, I, like most Donegal supporters, will be delighted to see him playing around midfield, and not closer to the goalposts, where he could cause more damage. With Rory Kavanagh not expected to play, Matin McElhinney will really have to stand up and show if he is capable of playing at this level.
In Tomas O'Connor, Kildare have a traditional full forward. Strong and fast, he links up well with the other forwards. But he will get nothing easy on Saturday. Neil McGee loves a physical tussle with his opponent (I'm reffering to Gaelic football, obviously), and he is more than capable of keeping O'Connor quiet.
Kildare create lots of scoring opportunities, and have posted high tallies throughout the year. But they won't do that this week. Donegal's tackling is tenacious, and they will force Kildare in to positions that their not comfortable in. My main worry from Donegal's perspective, is Emmet Bolton. He will more than likely pick up Mark McHugh and as he drops back, Bolton will have lots of space to influence the game. He has been in excellent form this year, and is a regular scorer for Kildare. If he is allowed to roam the pitch freely on Saturday, Donegal will be in big bother.
Eammon Callaghan is in Ft's opinion the most underrated player in the country. He has pace, skill and always scores a couple of points. He should have to much craft and guile for Anthony Thompson and I believe Donegal should put McGrath on Callaghan to try and curb his influence.
At the other end of the pitch, Michael Murphy and Colm McFadden should have too much ability for their markers. But, Geezer was probably the most effective player in the last twenty years at sweeping in front of danger forwards, and no doubt he'll have some plan to counteract Donegal's dangerous duo.
The game will be tight and tough, and I expect it to be it low scoring. There definately won't be 14 points in it, like the last time Donegal played in a quarter final against Cork. The big question is will Donegal's defensive system work at Croke Park? I think it will, and I for one cannot wait to seen McGeeney's smug face and ridiculous hairstyle knocked well and truly out of the Championship.
Wednesday, 20 July 2011
All changed, changed utterly
After nineteen long years, the Anglo Celt cup is back within the boundaries of Donegal. It was a magnificent performance from Donegal as they put years of defeat, disappointment and indiscipline behind them, to capture the Ulster title they craved so much.
It comes just over a year from their exit from the 2010 Championship to Armagh. That day Donegal were lethargic, disinterested and passionless. The image of Colm McFadden and co laughing on the bench as their team was getting hammered, left a bitter taste and signalled the end of John Joe donerty's disastrous tenure as bainisteoir. Who could have possibly forseen, as we left deflated from Crossmaglen, that just 12 months later Michael Murphy would be lifting the Anglo Celt?
One man could, Jim McGuinness.
But things would have to change. The team would have to get fitter, stronger and faster. Jim knew he had talented players, but talent alone was not enough. The best teams had game plans, and McGuinness strategically came up with a game plan to make Donegal difficult to beat. However, more than anything, they needed a change of attitude. They had to get rid of their inferiority complex, give more commitment and start behaving like champions. In just over a year, everything changed. To quote W. B yeats, it has "all changed, changed utterly".
Last Sunday, Donegal were fantastic. Their tackling was tenacious, their workrate ferocious, and their scoretaking was wonderful. Huge credit must go to Michael Hegarty. To say the kilcar man would not have been Ft's most favourite player over the last decade or so, would be a bit of an understatement, yet on Sunday, he really came of age. To play Donegal's system, a link man is crucial. Someone is needed to connect the defence with attack, and Hegarty was superb in this role. His distribution was impeccable, his tackling was good, and he always seemed to be in around the braking ball. He would have been my man of the match.
To traditionalists, Donegal's system may not be pretty, but nobody can deny its effectiveness. It protects the full back line, cuts out the opposition inside forwards, and forces players, uncomfortable in possesion, to shoot under pressure. It also importantly, reduces the oppositions chances sigificantly of scoring goals. The old GAA proverb says that 'Goals win matches', Donegal have conceded one and scored six in four matches. With such a mean defence, it's no surprise Donegal are Ulster champions.
Neil McGee was steady at full back, while Anthony Thompson had a great 70 minutes. Paddy McGrath and Frank McGlynn have really lifted their performaces this year. They get stronger and stronger with each game, and their improvement has allowed Karl Lacey to push out the field. For too long, he has been confined to the corner, Lacey has far too much ability to be played there. He is excellent at tackling, good at carrying the ball and superb at reading the game. And at 40/1 with PP to win footballer of the year, he could be a very worthwhile investment.
Neil Gallagher had a fine game in the middle, while McFadden has come a long way from his laughter in Crossmaglen.Michael Murphy rediscovered his form and showed why McGuinness entrusted him with the captaincy. He showed real leadership, as he won the ball after ball and contributed two points to the tally. He also had the liathroidí to stick away the penalty when it came.
John Brennan and Dery were unhappy, but i believe the decision to award a penalty was the correct one. Murphy won the ball, and Devlin's mommentum brought Murphy down. If it happened in any other position in the field, a free kick would be given. Derry were very unlucky not to be given a penalty of their own, yet I still think Donegal would have held on for victory. It meant too much to let it slip.
Donegal now move forward into the All-Ireland Championship, and they don't fear anyone. And why should they? They have earned the right to be there, and it is going to take a very good side to defeat them. Crossmaglen is now a distant memory, Donegal are Ulster Champions. They are all changed, changed utterly.
It comes just over a year from their exit from the 2010 Championship to Armagh. That day Donegal were lethargic, disinterested and passionless. The image of Colm McFadden and co laughing on the bench as their team was getting hammered, left a bitter taste and signalled the end of John Joe donerty's disastrous tenure as bainisteoir. Who could have possibly forseen, as we left deflated from Crossmaglen, that just 12 months later Michael Murphy would be lifting the Anglo Celt?
One man could, Jim McGuinness.
But things would have to change. The team would have to get fitter, stronger and faster. Jim knew he had talented players, but talent alone was not enough. The best teams had game plans, and McGuinness strategically came up with a game plan to make Donegal difficult to beat. However, more than anything, they needed a change of attitude. They had to get rid of their inferiority complex, give more commitment and start behaving like champions. In just over a year, everything changed. To quote W. B yeats, it has "all changed, changed utterly".
Last Sunday, Donegal were fantastic. Their tackling was tenacious, their workrate ferocious, and their scoretaking was wonderful. Huge credit must go to Michael Hegarty. To say the kilcar man would not have been Ft's most favourite player over the last decade or so, would be a bit of an understatement, yet on Sunday, he really came of age. To play Donegal's system, a link man is crucial. Someone is needed to connect the defence with attack, and Hegarty was superb in this role. His distribution was impeccable, his tackling was good, and he always seemed to be in around the braking ball. He would have been my man of the match.
To traditionalists, Donegal's system may not be pretty, but nobody can deny its effectiveness. It protects the full back line, cuts out the opposition inside forwards, and forces players, uncomfortable in possesion, to shoot under pressure. It also importantly, reduces the oppositions chances sigificantly of scoring goals. The old GAA proverb says that 'Goals win matches', Donegal have conceded one and scored six in four matches. With such a mean defence, it's no surprise Donegal are Ulster champions.
Neil McGee was steady at full back, while Anthony Thompson had a great 70 minutes. Paddy McGrath and Frank McGlynn have really lifted their performaces this year. They get stronger and stronger with each game, and their improvement has allowed Karl Lacey to push out the field. For too long, he has been confined to the corner, Lacey has far too much ability to be played there. He is excellent at tackling, good at carrying the ball and superb at reading the game. And at 40/1 with PP to win footballer of the year, he could be a very worthwhile investment.
Neil Gallagher had a fine game in the middle, while McFadden has come a long way from his laughter in Crossmaglen.Michael Murphy rediscovered his form and showed why McGuinness entrusted him with the captaincy. He showed real leadership, as he won the ball after ball and contributed two points to the tally. He also had the liathroidí to stick away the penalty when it came.
John Brennan and Dery were unhappy, but i believe the decision to award a penalty was the correct one. Murphy won the ball, and Devlin's mommentum brought Murphy down. If it happened in any other position in the field, a free kick would be given. Derry were very unlucky not to be given a penalty of their own, yet I still think Donegal would have held on for victory. It meant too much to let it slip.
Donegal now move forward into the All-Ireland Championship, and they don't fear anyone. And why should they? They have earned the right to be there, and it is going to take a very good side to defeat them. Crossmaglen is now a distant memory, Donegal are Ulster Champions. They are all changed, changed utterly.
Friday, 15 July 2011
5 crucial areas where the Ulster Final will be won and lost
The performance of Michael Murphy.
Murphy has been quiet by his high standards in the Ulster campaign so far, and his role on Sunday will be crucial in determining who takes home the Anglo Celt Cup. Entrusted with the captaincy at the start of the year, Murphy impressed during the league, but has found the going tough during the Championship. However, the former young player of the year’s confidence will be high after playing a pivitol role in helping Glenswilly defeat Naomh Conaill in the Donegal Senior Championship two weeks ago. The Derry Defence will worry about Murphy, after he scored 0-5 in their Championship encounter in 2009, while he caused havoc scoring 1-5 against them in the league earlier this term. Donegal will need another big performance from their captain if they are to be victorious on Sunday.
Midfield battle
The most important position on the field and a sector where Derry are strong. Traditionally, Derry have always produced excellent midfielders. Brian McGilligan and Anthony Tohill were two of the finest midfielders of their generation, while more recently Fergal Doherty was unlucky not to collect an All-Star. Their current partnership of Joe Diver and Michael Friel dismantled Armagh’s midfield in the semi-final, and with the evergreen Enda Muldoon helping out in this area too, the Derry midfield is a formidable opponent. The Donegal midfield of Rory Kavanagh and Kevin Rafferty struggled against Tyrone in the semi-final, and with both men carrying injuries into the game, it may prove a difficult task to break Derry’s stranglehold in the middle of the park.
Neil McGee v Caolan O’Boyle
With Eoin Bradley ruled out of the game through injury, much of the attention will be on who fills the number 14 jersey. Mark Lynch could occupy the position, but it is seems unlikely that Derry boss John Brennan would remove him from the half-forward line after his performance against Armagh. Bradley’s likely replacement therefore, is Caolan O’Boyle. O’Boyle, who stands at 6 ft 4”, is relatively untested at this level, but did impress against Donegal in the league when he scored 2-1. Derry used the tactic of kicking in high ball, and this caused the Donegal defence lots of problems. Neil McGee has been in excellent form this year, and he will be determined to ensure Donegal go through their Ulster Campaign without conceding a goal. He coped sufficiently with Cavan’s aerial bombardment in the quarter final, when David Givney was moved to full forward, and he will have to be equally as vigilant to keep out the oak leaf men.
The Substitutes bench
Donegal have put a lot of emphasis on substitutes this year, and their bench looks very strong. With experienced players like Neil Gallagher, Eamon McGee and Christy Toye all available, Donegal have a lot of big match experience in reserve. Marty Boyle showed that he was more than capable of playing inter-county football against Cavan. While Dermot Molloy and Michael Hegarty have both made big impacts when introduced. Derry’s bench appears less strong, with a lot of inexperienced players being called upon so far this year. Emmet McGuckin and Colm McGoldrick are the likely replacements for forwards, while Ciaran Mullan, Kevin McCloy and the returning Gerard O’Kane will provide defensive cover. With the pace of the game expected to be fast and the intensity high, a big onus will be on substitutes to provide the fresh legs to secure victory for their respective teams. Which side’s bench has the biggest effect when introduced, may be a deciding factor.
Derry’s ability to take long-range points.
Donegal’s defensive system has proven to be very successful so far, but perhaps faces it’s most difficult opposition so far this year, in the Ulster Final. With Donegal players flooding back into their own half, and blocking off passes to the Derry inside forwards, Derry will have to look elsewhere for scores. This means that their half forwards, midfielders and half-backs have an added responsibility to provide points. Tyrone struggled against Donegal, as they were forced into kicking wides from difficult angles. However, Donegal’s system will suit Derry, as their half back line of Charlie Kielt, Barry and Sean Leo McGoldrick are all comfortable on the ball and renowned point scorers. Add this to the scoring prowess of Mark lynch, Enda Muldoon and James Kielt, and Derry are more than capable of upsetting Donegal’s defensive system. Donegal will have to prevent them from scoring long range points if they are going to be Ulster Champions.
Verdict: Donegal to win by two points in a tight, tough game. Don't expect a classic.
Friday, 17 June 2011
McGuinness leads the Way
You'd be forgiven for thinking Jim Mc Guinness was a negative person. His approach on the football field bears more than a passing resemblence to the 'puke football' of the early noughties, while on The Sunday Game last week, he came across as a frustrated man making the most of his two minutes, to bite back at his critics.
His outburst seemed out of context, for there was nothing to be negative about. Donegal improved drastically on their previous outing, scoring an impressive tally of 2-14.When their captain and star player was wrongly dismissed, senior players, such as Kavanagh and Lacey, and at long last, Colm McFadden showed leadership to see them through. While, 17 year old Paddy Mc Brearty had a fantastic game and showed he's ready to play at senior level.
So what had McGuinness to moan about it? And the answer is not a great deal. But it's McGuiness' interest in the little details that sets him apart. He leaves no stone unturned in his quest for perfection. His defence of Ryan Bradley appeared unnecessary, but it wasn't. It complemented his team's performance and emphasises Donegal's shift in attitude. No longer are they going to be bullied, or pushed around. They are strong, united and have the stomach for the battle.
McGuinness' gripe was not with the criticism to him or his team's tactics, but the 'lack of respect' shown to Ryan Bradley after he was awarded man of the match against Antrim. The so-called analysts begrudginly gave the award to Bradley, but added that there shouldn't be a man of the match in a game so poor.
This is a huge insult to Bradley and his family. The Sunday Game is an institution within Ireland, and to be awarded a man of the match is a magnificent honour. Sure, to Colm Cooper or Sean Cavanagh who collect a couple every year, they're no great achievement, but to mere mortals like myself and Ryan Bradley, the award carries a lot of prestige.
It also signalled Bradley's coming of age as a Donegal footballer. An underage talent, it appeared that his undoubted talent would never be fulfilled, and he would never surpass the periphery of the starting 15. However, the Buncrana man knuckled down and is now reaping the benefits under McGuinness' regime. Did the Sunday Game analysts comment on his sudden improvement? No, that would involve doing some proper analysing.
The best managers in the world are famous for defending their players. Sir Alex Ferguson defended Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney after the were caught with their trousers down. Mickey Harte always supported Owen Mulligan and Ryan McMenamin when it would have been easier to cast off the troublemakers, while Jose Mourinho always puts his player's welfare first.
Players need a strong manager. They need someone who will have them in an excellent position physically, but also someone who helps them to deal with the psychologoical aspect of the game. McGuinness does this. He brings strength and solidarity to Donegal, and it is rubbing off on his players. It is this strength and solidarity that could lead to a prolonged summer for the Green and Gold.
His outburst seemed out of context, for there was nothing to be negative about. Donegal improved drastically on their previous outing, scoring an impressive tally of 2-14.When their captain and star player was wrongly dismissed, senior players, such as Kavanagh and Lacey, and at long last, Colm McFadden showed leadership to see them through. While, 17 year old Paddy Mc Brearty had a fantastic game and showed he's ready to play at senior level.
So what had McGuinness to moan about it? And the answer is not a great deal. But it's McGuiness' interest in the little details that sets him apart. He leaves no stone unturned in his quest for perfection. His defence of Ryan Bradley appeared unnecessary, but it wasn't. It complemented his team's performance and emphasises Donegal's shift in attitude. No longer are they going to be bullied, or pushed around. They are strong, united and have the stomach for the battle.
McGuinness' gripe was not with the criticism to him or his team's tactics, but the 'lack of respect' shown to Ryan Bradley after he was awarded man of the match against Antrim. The so-called analysts begrudginly gave the award to Bradley, but added that there shouldn't be a man of the match in a game so poor.
This is a huge insult to Bradley and his family. The Sunday Game is an institution within Ireland, and to be awarded a man of the match is a magnificent honour. Sure, to Colm Cooper or Sean Cavanagh who collect a couple every year, they're no great achievement, but to mere mortals like myself and Ryan Bradley, the award carries a lot of prestige.
It also signalled Bradley's coming of age as a Donegal footballer. An underage talent, it appeared that his undoubted talent would never be fulfilled, and he would never surpass the periphery of the starting 15. However, the Buncrana man knuckled down and is now reaping the benefits under McGuinness' regime. Did the Sunday Game analysts comment on his sudden improvement? No, that would involve doing some proper analysing.
The best managers in the world are famous for defending their players. Sir Alex Ferguson defended Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney after the were caught with their trousers down. Mickey Harte always supported Owen Mulligan and Ryan McMenamin when it would have been easier to cast off the troublemakers, while Jose Mourinho always puts his player's welfare first.
Players need a strong manager. They need someone who will have them in an excellent position physically, but also someone who helps them to deal with the psychologoical aspect of the game. McGuinness does this. He brings strength and solidarity to Donegal, and it is rubbing off on his players. It is this strength and solidarity that could lead to a prolonged summer for the Green and Gold.
Sunday, 29 May 2011
Less is best
It was Mark Twain who famously said, "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog". Unfortunately in recent times, this quote has been made redundant in sporting terms, as the importance of skill and technique has been replaced by strength and power. It appears if you're not able to run all day or don't have a big build, then you will be relegated to the bench or the stands.
Scouts are sent out to find the athletes of the future, not the footballers of the future. The club can teach them how to become footballers. However, not every club has this outlook. And it's a good thing they don't, as if they did, the world would have been cruelly denied of one the most naturally talented footballers the world has ever seen.
The magnificient Lionel Messi was born with a growth hormone deficiency, and would almost certainly be placed in the football wilderness today. Yet, Newell's Old Boys recognized his talent, and Barcelona subsequently were willing to gamble on the little Argentinan's brillance.
.
And how this gamble has paid dividends for the Catalans. Once again he was superb in the Champions League final. Balance, first touch, distribution, dribbling, finishing- he has all the attributes needed. And of course, he has a wonderful link-up play with Xavi and Iniesta.
Ironically, they are of a similar build to Messi. They are small and light, yet possess great awareness. They should be too small to compete in the midfield sector, but they succeed every time, because they are fast and intellegient.They don't allow their size to prevent them from dominating.
And it's not just in soccer, where the little men excels. Colm 'Gooch' Cooper, Gaelic Football's star player, is not a big man. However, his size is not as issue. He can compete against any player of any size. It will be the Gooch who will be remembered in the generations that follow, when the big hefty full forward is long forgotten.
BBC commentator, Mark Sidebottom claims that Jamie Clarke of Armagh dosen't go to the gym, because he dosen't want to lose the ability to fit into skinny jeans. I'd imagine this decision is not favourable with the Armagh management, but if he continues to perform like he did on Saturday night, they'll forgive him. He was phenomenal, jinking in and out, and destroying the Down defence.
So perhaps, managers in both codes will begin to acknowledge that the best way to succeed is to find the most naturally gifted players, regardless of size or physique.
Scouts are sent out to find the athletes of the future, not the footballers of the future. The club can teach them how to become footballers. However, not every club has this outlook. And it's a good thing they don't, as if they did, the world would have been cruelly denied of one the most naturally talented footballers the world has ever seen.
The magnificient Lionel Messi was born with a growth hormone deficiency, and would almost certainly be placed in the football wilderness today. Yet, Newell's Old Boys recognized his talent, and Barcelona subsequently were willing to gamble on the little Argentinan's brillance.
.
And how this gamble has paid dividends for the Catalans. Once again he was superb in the Champions League final. Balance, first touch, distribution, dribbling, finishing- he has all the attributes needed. And of course, he has a wonderful link-up play with Xavi and Iniesta.
Ironically, they are of a similar build to Messi. They are small and light, yet possess great awareness. They should be too small to compete in the midfield sector, but they succeed every time, because they are fast and intellegient.They don't allow their size to prevent them from dominating.
And it's not just in soccer, where the little men excels. Colm 'Gooch' Cooper, Gaelic Football's star player, is not a big man. However, his size is not as issue. He can compete against any player of any size. It will be the Gooch who will be remembered in the generations that follow, when the big hefty full forward is long forgotten.
BBC commentator, Mark Sidebottom claims that Jamie Clarke of Armagh dosen't go to the gym, because he dosen't want to lose the ability to fit into skinny jeans. I'd imagine this decision is not favourable with the Armagh management, but if he continues to perform like he did on Saturday night, they'll forgive him. He was phenomenal, jinking in and out, and destroying the Down defence.
So perhaps, managers in both codes will begin to acknowledge that the best way to succeed is to find the most naturally gifted players, regardless of size or physique.
Thursday, 19 May 2011
Mission accomplished for Donegal
It was with great excitement and enthusiasm that the All Ireland Championship kicked off in earnest last Sunday, and I think it's fair to say that it failed to capture the public's imagination. Within an hour and a half, the joy of hearing the Sunday Game theme tune once again, had long given way to disappointment, anger, and cynicism.
The old man brigade on the Sunday Game weren't happy, the message boards were over run with complaints, and even the Antrim manager Liam Bradley criticised his own team, in between digs at Jim McGuinness. And to be perfectly honest, I disagree. Donegal had one agenda on Sunday, to win the game, mission accomplished.
Don't get me wrong, it was terrible fare. The standard of football was atrocious, basic skills of the game were lacking, and the negative tactics left many with no alternative but switching to the Eastenders omnibus. But somewhere, in between all the cynical remarks and negative analysis, were some extremely positive signs for the Donegal faithful.
The defence was superb. Neil McGee was outstanding as per usual, Frank McGlynn has really lifted his game, Paddy Mc Grath has rehabilitated himself after last years nightmare against Armagh. Ryan Bradley is finally fulfilling his undoubted talent, and we are beginning to establish a forward line who can win their own ball, and score themselves. However, much more importantly, we now go out on to the pitch with a game plan.
It's negative, it's boring, but it's effective. Praise the lord that John Joe Doherty's tenure is at an end. The days of getting hammered by Cork, Tyrone and Armagh appear to be at an end. Our players are fitter than ever, tactically aware and much more disciplined.
We must all remember that the objective of this Donegal team is too win Championship matches, not friends.
The old man brigade on the Sunday Game weren't happy, the message boards were over run with complaints, and even the Antrim manager Liam Bradley criticised his own team, in between digs at Jim McGuinness. And to be perfectly honest, I disagree. Donegal had one agenda on Sunday, to win the game, mission accomplished.
Don't get me wrong, it was terrible fare. The standard of football was atrocious, basic skills of the game were lacking, and the negative tactics left many with no alternative but switching to the Eastenders omnibus. But somewhere, in between all the cynical remarks and negative analysis, were some extremely positive signs for the Donegal faithful.
The defence was superb. Neil McGee was outstanding as per usual, Frank McGlynn has really lifted his game, Paddy Mc Grath has rehabilitated himself after last years nightmare against Armagh. Ryan Bradley is finally fulfilling his undoubted talent, and we are beginning to establish a forward line who can win their own ball, and score themselves. However, much more importantly, we now go out on to the pitch with a game plan.
It's negative, it's boring, but it's effective. Praise the lord that John Joe Doherty's tenure is at an end. The days of getting hammered by Cork, Tyrone and Armagh appear to be at an end. Our players are fitter than ever, tactically aware and much more disciplined.
We must all remember that the objective of this Donegal team is too win Championship matches, not friends.
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