Donegal SFC – Bundoran hoping to get closer this year

SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP QUARTER-FINAL

BUNDORAN V GAOTH DOBHAIR

Sunday, O’Donnell Park, 4.30pm

THE Donegal Club championship is one of the most competitive in Ulster if not Ireland, and it is that way because of the attitude of men involved.

Bundoran manager Niall Dunne is one such man. Ahead of their clash with Donegal and Ulster champions Gaoth Dobhair, a team that gave Corofin a run for their money earlier this year, he was in a positive mood.

“The draw could have been kinder but if we have any aspirations of winning the championship, then teams like Gweedore are the ones we have to beat.

“It’s a repeat of last year’s quarter-final so lets hope it is a lot tighter affair this year.”

Dunne reported that Ciaran McCaughey is very close to returning to action.

Unfortunately Cian McEniff is doubtful to play. Beyond that pair, everyone else is ready go.

Last year, Gaoth Dobhair won 8-13 to 3-12 against Bundoran. The Gaoth Dobhair goals came from Daire Ó Baoill, Niall Friel, Kevin Cassidy, Naoise Ó Baoill, Eamon Collum, Cian Mulligan and James Carroll.

Gaoth Dobhair confirmed their quarter-final place last weekend with a 2-19 to 0-7 win against Aradara.

Mervyn O’Donnell told Gaelic Life earlier this year that their preparations this year have sought to mimic the conditioning that Corofin showed in the All-Ireland series.

They are bigger and stronger and fitter this year. They will make that count on Sunday.

VERDICT: GAOTH DOBHAIR