ALL-IRELAND champions Donegal will be looking to get back to winning ways in Ballybofey this evening as a rising Down team come to Ballybofey in the Allianz National League Division One clash.
After defeat to Kildare in an entertaining game at Croke Park last Sunday, Jim McGuinness will be hoping his side gets back to winning ways and avoids getting dragged into a relegation battle in the top tier.
In most other sports, it’s the league which counts – but in gaelic games it’s the Championship.
But to discount the league would be foolish, and Jim McGuinness isn’t foolish.
You can expect Donegal to come out fighting in front of the home crowd at MacCumhaill Park, with the home venue expected to attract a large attendance – it’s a far cry from the fog and ice in Enniskillen a few weeks ago in the Dr McKenna Cup.
League fixture detractors can at least count on a Down travelling support, with many booking in to local hotels for the weekend, so expect some Red and Black in the ground and the local bars afterwards.
Ardara’s Paddy McGrath missed the opener against Kildare but will be in the squad tonight, says McGuinness.
And Mark McHugh is in the frame to warm the bench at least. Expect him to make a show at some stage after recovering from surgery on several injuries after a three-month lay-off.
Colm McFadden and Frank McGlynn may have recovered from hamstring injuries in time to be included in the panel.
“Players are at a 70% fitness level at this time of the year so we will see what happens and we do want to build up that fitness,” said manager Jim.
“The League is about getting back up and at it and then trying to look at some new players.”
So expect Ross McWhirter to feature again after an impressive run. The St Eunan’s player certainly adds to the squad.
Michael Murphy is playing so naturally right now, he’s become the Stevie Gerard of Donegal gaelic games – always reliable and brilliant.
His display for DCU during the week was utterly superb; hitting nine points with ease, following his wonderful performance against Kildare.
“I thought he showed great leadership in the second half of that match,” said McGuinness.
What a leader.
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