Bonner calls for backing ahead of Sligo visit

By Jonathan Hogan

WITH a place in the Tailteann Cup semi-finals on the line, Fermanagh manager Declan Bonner has called on supporters to become their side’s ‘16th man’ at Brewster Park on Saturday.

Fresh from last weekend’s victory over New York, Fermanagh face Sligo with the chance to make home advantage count.

“It’s a home match and we need to fill out Brewster. It’s a big quarter-final,” said the Fermanagh manager.

“We need to make sure we get the crowd out supporting us. That crowd can be the 16th man and that’s vital for us. Let’s use that to our advantage, it’s a massive game.”

Home advantage was secured after another convincing display from the Erne men, although Bonner admitted there is still plenty to work on as attention turns towards Saturday’s last-eight clash.

“I think we started the game really well, the attitude has been really good,” Bonner said.

“It’s step by step, we’re only at game three, we’re into game four and it’ll be a massive match back at Brewster.

“I felt we went away from what we’re about for about 15 minutes before half time [on Saturday], but we got them inside and I think the second half was much more like it. There’s still plenty of improvement, we know that.

“As I keep saying, it’s great to see the young crowd and fans here. We didn’t get too many chances in the National League campaign, but the guys are starting to move through the gears.”

Bonner also pointed to the growing edge within the panel, with competition for places increasing and several younger players continuing to impress.

“We had five training sessions since the Wexford game and that prep went well for us. There’s a real good edge about the guys at the minute and that’s exactly what you want.

“It was good to see Ultán [Kelm] starting his first game in maybe 18 months and that was massive, getting him back on the pitch.

“It’s been good all round, there’s some serious competition for places now and that’s exactly what you want.

“It’s great to see it and good to get Lughaidh Donnelly on the pitch too, another young guy out of the U20s. Those guys have shown a real serious attitude.

“They’re going to be very good players for Fermanagh down the line, no doubt about it.”

Declan Bonner is the guest the latest episode of Gaelic Lives, looking ahead to the weekend’s action. Check out YouTube or Spotify.