By:
Conor Martin
Donegal’s second‑half surge against Derry has given them a timely boost ahead of Saturday’s Dr McKenna Cup final against Monaghan and the upcoming Allianz Football League.
A number of the starting XV from Wednesday carried a real threat and will be central to Donegal’s plans this weekend.
Daire Ó Baoill was the standout performer, driving the turnaround with a goal and key scores as Donegal flipped the game on its head after the interval. His confidence and scoring touch will be vital against a competitive Monaghan side.
Peadar Mogan also impressed with his work on the scoreboard, contributing consistently and giving Donegal rhythm and width in attack. His energy around the middle third helped force turnovers and transition into scoring chances.
In goal, Gavin Mulreany showed composure, not only with vital saves early on but also by slotting over points from play and frees — a rare and useful added dimension that keeps scoreboard pressure on the opposition.
Midfield duo helped Donegal get the job done in Dr McKenna Cup tie
Across midfield and out wide, players like Jason McGee and Ciaran Moore helped maintain momentum, working hard on both ends and supporting Donegal’s push in the third quarter that ultimately swung the game.
Defensively, veterans like Brendan McCole and Caolan McColgan helped absorb Derry’s early pressure and allowed Donegal to build a platform for that second‑half charge.
This crop of performers blending scoring output, defensive resilience and midfield energy underscores why Wednesday’s win means more than just reaching the final. Donegal looked like a unit developing cohesion under pressure, not just relying on one or two individuals.
Jim McGuinness’ men will now play Monaghan in Saturday’s decider, whose captain, Mícheál Bannigan, scored 1-6 as they overcame Tyrone on Wednesday. Regardless of the result this weekend, they’ll be hoping to use their pre-season momentum from their first league match
Donegal look to be building something special as the 2026 league season approaches
There will probably be tweaks made to the starting 15 that feature in their league campaign, but for now it seems last year’s beaten All-Ireland finalists are working away on something special.
That collective belief is great momentum to take into the Allianz Football League, where consistency every week becomes crucial.
Carrying this sense of purpose and confidence into league action will help Donegal handle intensity, manage games better and maintain belief even when scores don’t come easily.
If Saturday’s final sees another team effort, with the likes of Ó Baoill, Mogan, Mulreany and others stepping up again, Donegal could not only lift silverware and their first Dr McKenna Cup since 2018 but also set the tone for a strong league campaign and beyond.
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