DECLAN Bonner believes Saturday’s Division 1 semi-final against Dublin is ‘idea’ preparation for their Ulster Championship quest.
Although Donegal are in a peculiar situation of knowing they cannot play a League final even if they win, a tilt at six-in-a-row All-Ireland champions Dublin will get them primed for their assault on the provincial championship.
“It’s a great match to get two weeks before the Championship, against the best team in the country over the last six or seven years,” Bonner told Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub.
“We’re still two weeks out from the Championship so it’s ideal.
“What better way to prepare for the Championship? We’ll definitely get a test. All of their big guns are still there and playing well.”
Donegal topped Division 1 North, but Bonner admits some defensive concerns after shipping big scores against Monaghan and Armagh.
Donegal came back from the brink to earn draws with both in their last two outings.
Bonner said: “They showed great character. We don’t want to do that too often. They showed real character to come back and dig out results. Making sure we stayed in Division 1 was our big priority. It’s a bonus now, this match against Dublin.”
In the absence of captain Michael Murphy, who had to withdrawn early from the Monaghan game, Bonner has been impressed by how others have stepped up.
He said: “The young lads have stood up and taken the games by the scruff of the neck. They’ve started to show real leadership qualities. It’s important that they show that leadership.”
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