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All the momentum with Donegal, a lot tougher games than the Dubs have had. It will be close and maybe Donegal will shade it.

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 01, 2016, 09:04:26 AM
All the momentum with Donegal, a lot tougher games than the Dubs have had. It will be close and maybe Donegal will shade it.

Donegal have the momentum of one win in a row!

Well at least you are a bit more humble than Charlie Redmond.

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 01, 2016, 09:08:26 AM

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 01, 2016, 09:04:26 AM
All the momentum with Donegal, a lot tougher games than the Dubs have had. It will be close and maybe Donegal will shade it.

Donegal have the momentum of one win in a row!

Well at least you are a bit more humble than Charlie Redmond.

Tougher games. 2 v Monaghan, Tyrone and Cork. Ulster final was tight up until the last couple of minutes. Dublin have played no one, possibility of playing without 3 all star defenders, just have my doubts about the Dubs this year.

Don't get the Redmond thing, never seen him post here.

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 01, 2016, 09:13:25 AM

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 01, 2016, 09:08:26 AM

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 01, 2016, 09:04:26 AM
All the momentum with Donegal, a lot tougher games than the Dubs have had. It will be close and maybe Donegal will shade it.

Donegal have the momentum of one win in a row!

Well at least you are a bit more humble than Charlie Redmond.

Tougher games. 2 v Monaghan, Tyrone and Cork. Ulster final was tight up until the last couple of minutes. Dublin have played no one, possibility of playing with 3 all star defenders, just have my doubts about the Dubs this year.

Don't get the Redmond thing, never seen him post here.

Small mercies!

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 01, 2016, 09:04:26 AM
All the momentum with Donegal, a lot tougher games than the Dubs have had. It will be close and maybe Donegal will shade it.

Uh-huh. ;D

You'd have to fancy Dublin. Undefeated this year and playing at home!

On a separate note, What will the capacity of Casement Park be when built? 40K?

This would be an ideal venue for Donegal v Dublin on a clustered weekend like the one this weekend?

Have a game in a real neutral venue.

McBrearty's performance v Cork will help him and maybe Donegal will actually kick him earlier ball. It's just a pity Murphy isn't playing better as having both of them staying in there would really test this Dublin defence to see are the replacements up to the job.
I would fear Gallagher is too chicken to come up with something different like McGuinness would and they will play the Dubs like the Ulster final. It will be ugly but Dublin have the players to kick points from 40 yards all day.
Dublin's only weakness is in their defence so if you're gonna challenge them then be brave and go for that weakness.
Giving them easy restarts is a bad idea as they use the ball so well. Rock is their top scorer so not giving away cheap frees is also crucial but hard to do.

I'd love to see Donegal at least going for it a lot more than they have done so far this year.

Would be surprised to see anything but another easy win for the Dubs. The Dubs owe Donegal for 2014 and but for that smash and grab victory the chances are they would be hunting down their 4th title in a row this year. This game will spell the end of an era for many of this Donegal side.

Quote from: Fuzzman on August 01, 2016, 05:48:50 PM
McBrearty's performance v Cork will help him and maybe Donegal will actually kick him earlier ball. It's just a pity Murphy isn't playing better as having both of them staying in there would really test this Dublin defence to see are the replacements up to the job.
I would fear Gallagher is too chicken to come up with something different like McGuinness would and they will play the Dubs like the Ulster final. It will be ugly but Dublin have the players to kick points from 40 yards all day.
Dublin's only weakness is in their defence so if you're gonna challenge them then be brave and go for that weakness.
Giving them easy restarts is a bad idea as they use the ball so well. Rock is their top scorer so not giving away cheap frees is also crucial but hard to do.

I'd love to see Donegal at least going for it a lot more than they have done so far this year.

He doesn't really have time though, even if he could come up with a half-decent plan. The thing about McGuinness was that he saw and ruthlessly exploited a weakness in the Dublin game plan with three weeks of preparation. Does such a weakness now exist? Yourself and one or two others are pointing at the Dublin full back line and suggesting sticking Murphy in there with McBrearty, but the problem is that that makes us even weaker in the middle of the field, which could leave him stranded away from the one-way traffic down the field. Add in the fact that Murphy is ironically probably the player best equipped to play in the kick passes that himself and McBrearty can exploit. Unfortunately, when it comes to Murphy, we're always robbing Peter to pay Paul.

The other option is to try a 2011 job on it, but Dublin now know how to punch the holes with the runners and men not carrying the ball into contact, and, as you say, have enough players who can hit the long range points that it would take to accumulate 12 or 13 points to win such a game. And if we stick to trying to walk it across the 45 like we did against Tyrone, I doubt if we would break the 10 point mark ourselves.

On kickouts, if we push up, then we're going to get hammered in the middle of the field. And Cluxton only needs to player to momentarily get a couple of yards space to hit him with the kickout. Whereas with us, its short to Paddy McGrath or Anthony Thompson, or else 50-50 down the middle.

Another thing, we are going to need goals. And we are not exactly scoring lots of them this year. Oran MacNiallais has three. And I think that's it. None in our last three games. Didn't create a single goal chance against Tyrone. Had a McElhinney half-chance against Cork. One or two half-chances in the replay against Monaghan, but went for points instead given the circumstances.

We limped out against Mayo at this stage last year. I think we're better now, but the Dubs unfortunately have too many options whereas we don't (we bring Anthony Thompson and Martin McElhinney back on after being substituted; the Dubs have forwards who would walk onto many other teams who can't even get a game).

Unfortunately for Donegal I think Dublin will win this rather easily after a possibly cagey first half. Donegal still have plenty of talent in their squad, but tactically it's all over the place. McGuinness pulled off a masterstroke in 2014 and outwitted Gavin on the sideline. I don't think Rory Gallagher is wiley or brave enough to pull off a McGuinness-like ambush.

Yes the biggest issue with Donegal will be management as Gallagher is no McGuinness. Dublin won the league semi final by 10 points in April I don't expect under Gallagher to have improved their system or learnt much from that defeat so expect another comfortable Dublin win.

What we need is a swirling gale force wind and driving rain. Drag them down to our level! See if they can handle Ballyshannon in February type elements! :P :)

I think a lot of 2014 was down to Gavin and Dublin's arrogance though (well, if not arrogance, then naiveté). McGuinness correctly predicted that they wouldn't change their gameplan and prepared accordingly, but their gameplan was perfectly suited for Donegal to exploit given our style of defend in numbers and sweep forward en masse after the turnover. Maybe we charged forward a bit more than usual, especially in the second half, but there wasn't a whole lot of difference between that and, say, the early stages of the 2012 AI Final or the 2012 semi-final against Cork or any number of other games. Eamon Fitzmaurice, on the other hand, decided to fight fire with fire in the final and turned it into a defensive slugfest, ultimately decided by one vital break that went Kerry's way. Now maybe Fitzmaurice learned from Gavin's mistake and might have similarly been caught had they met Donegal in the semi instead, but who knows? (at least until the books appear!  :P). However, Kerry HAD come up against that style in 2012. Dublin hadn't (2011 version doesn't count!).

Quote from: J70 on August 01, 2016, 09:26:55 PM
I think a lot of 2014 was down to Gavin and Dublin's arrogance though (well, if not arrogance, then naiveté). McGuinness correctly predicted that they wouldn't change their gameplan and prepared accordingly, but their gameplan was perfectly suited for Donegal to exploit given our style of defend in numbers and sweep forward en masse after the turnover. Maybe we charged forward a bit more than usual, especially in the second half, but there wasn't a whole lot of difference between that and, say, the early stages of the 2012 AI Final or the 2012 semi-final against Cork or any number of other games. Eamon Fitzmaurice, on the other hand, decided to fight fire with fire in the final and turned it into a defensive slugfest, ultimately decided by one vital break that went Kerry's way. Now maybe Fitzmaurice learned from Gavin's mistake and might have similarly been caught had they met Donegal in the semi instead, but who knows? (at least until the books appear!  :P). However, Kerry HAD come up against that style in 2012. Dublin hadn't (2011 version doesn't count!).

In 2014 Jim McGuiness was planning for Dublin from the start of the season as he expected to win an Ulster title. Rory Gallagher has one week.  After playing on Saturday they won't be doing any heavy training this week so he can't make any dramatic changes to the team tactics.

Also in 2014 dubs went into that game over confident and panicked in the 2nd half. Dubs won't have that over confidence this time & with Cian O'Sullivan in the sweeper role they won't be caught on the break in the same way again.

You'd swear the game in 2014 was a tactical masterclass akin to Muhammad Ali's 'rope a dope' strategy.
Donegal were a whisker away from getting the mother and father of all hidings.
Yes, Dublin did panic in the 2nd half but by rights the game should have been over by then.
If McGuinness had Dublin figured out, he did a good job of hiding it for the first 30 minutes of the game.
I remember watching it with a group at home and the consensus was that Donegal would do well to avoid complete humiliation, such was Dublin's dominance in the 1st half.
I'd readily admit that the game is 70+ minutes, and Donegal fully deserved the win in the end, I just wonder how much credit McGuinness should get for that.
Was Tom Cribbin hailed as a tactical genius when Westmeath overturned a massive deficit in the 2nd half to beat us last year?
Did he 'figure us out'?
Or did we simply lose a game we should have won comfortably.

Quote from: Jinxy on August 02, 2016, 10:53:09 AM
You'd swear the game in 2014 was a tactical masterclass akin to Muhammad Ali's 'rope a dope' strategy.
Donegal were a whisker away from getting the mother and father of all hidings.
Yes, Dublin did panic in the 2nd half but by rights the game should have been over by then.
If McGuinness had Dublin figured out, he did a good job of hiding it for the first 30 minutes of the game.
I remember watching it with a group at home and the consensus was that Donegal would do well to avoid complete humiliation, such was Dublin's dominance in the 1st half.
I'd readily admit that the game is 70+ minutes, and Donegal fully deserved the win in the end, I just wonder how much credit McGuinness should get for that.
Was Tom Cribbin hailed as a tactical genius when Westmeath overturned a massive deficit in the 2nd half to beat us last year?
Did he 'figure us out'?
Or did we simply lose a game we should have won comfortably.

Connolly missed two sitters in that game that would have put Dublin 7/8 points in front. Either of them goes in and Dubs win comfortably

Quote from: Jinxy on August 02, 2016, 10:53:09 AM
You'd swear the game in 2014 was a tactical masterclass akin to Muhammad Ali's 'rope a dope' strategy.
Donegal were a whisker away from getting the mother and father of all hidings.
Yes, Dublin did panic in the 2nd half but by rights the game should have been over by then.
If McGuinness had Dublin figured out, he did a good job of hiding it for the first 30 minutes of the game.
I remember watching it with a group at home and the consensus was that Donegal would do well to avoid complete humiliation, such was Dublin's dominance in the 1st half.
I'd readily admit that the game is 70+ minutes, and Donegal fully deserved the win in the end, I just wonder how much credit McGuinness should get for that.
Was Tom Cribbin hailed as a tactical genius when Westmeath overturned a massive deficit in the 2nd half to beat us last year?
Did he 'figure us out'?
Or did we simply lose a game we should have won comfortably.

Now you're going way too far the other way. McGuinness was happy to let Dublin shoot from out the field and had the team defending the so-called U. They hit a rake of wonder points early on, but NO team can keep that up all day. And McGuinness had the Donegal lads endlessly repeat a drill in training where they'd be running into space in the Dublin half once they got past Dublin's high press. Apparently he identified that most teams would panic and hit aimless early ball into their full forwards, whereas McGuinness made the team repeat carrying the ball into space until either a forward got free for the pass or they could take their score. He predicted that there would be goals in it for Donegal. As it turned out, Donegal repeatedly ran up the field in acres of space and, more often than not, took the right option and a score. According to Rory Kavanagh, McGuinness predicted and wrote on a board that Donegal would score 3-16 or 17 (they hit 3-14). Throw in the whole psychological/ confidence thing as well.
And on the Dublin dominance, they never got more than five points ahead, dominant as they were. The tide started to change after the 20th minute or so, especially after Christy Toye was sent on. Yes, they should have got a goal or two, but both attempts were under pressure, and McGee and Durkan made good saves.

My point is that a lot of this could have been rendered irrelevant, but Dublin were so cocksure that they didn't consider that they could be exposed. McGuinness correctly identified their weaknesses, but Dublin either didn't or didn't consider them a concern.

Quote from: dublin7 on August 02, 2016, 11:18:45 AM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 02, 2016, 10:53:09 AM
You'd swear the game in 2014 was a tactical masterclass akin to Muhammad Ali's 'rope a dope' strategy.
Donegal were a whisker away from getting the mother and father of all hidings.
Yes, Dublin did panic in the 2nd half but by rights the game should have been over by then.
If McGuinness had Dublin figured out, he did a good job of hiding it for the first 30 minutes of the game.
I remember watching it with a group at home and the consensus was that Donegal would do well to avoid complete humiliation, such was Dublin's dominance in the 1st half.
I'd readily admit that the game is 70+ minutes, and Donegal fully deserved the win in the end, I just wonder how much credit McGuinness should get for that.
Was Tom Cribbin hailed as a tactical genius when Westmeath overturned a massive deficit in the 2nd half to beat us last year?
Did he 'figure us out'?
Or did we simply lose a game we should have won comfortably.

Connolly missed two sitters in that game that would have put Dublin 7/8 points in front. Either of them goes in and Dubs win comfortably

And in 2011, if Colm McFadden's shot early in the second goes under the bar and not over and Donegal go 1-5 to 0-3 in front, it's game over and no All Ireland for Gilroy.

Every game has moments like that.

I don't think Gallager needs to be a genius to figure this out. Without O'Carroll, McCaffrey and McCarthy this is a markedly weaker defence. Rory has been the best fullback in the country since 2011. Murphy could cause havoc in there, and with regard to robbing Peter to pay Paul in terms of midfield parity, whilst Brian Fenton is in great form, neither Bastick or MDMA are pulling up trees. Factor in the loss of McCarthy (who is an absolutely class act) and his ability to hoover up loose ball and accelerate through the blanket on the right and the fact that McCaffrey did almost exactly the same, we are now wide open to the type of lateral passing and aimlessness that typify our worst displays.

It 's a pity O'Gara isn't there to offer the option of quicker ball. I'm not saying we're going to lose this, but if we have to defeat Donegal, Kerry and Tyrone on the way to this title, that is as hard a run in the All Ireland series as we've had this decade.

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 02, 2016, 12:42:41 PM
I don't think Gallager needs to be a genius to figure this out. Without O'Carroll, McCaffrey and McCarthy this is a markedly weaker defence. Rory has been the best fullback in the country since 2011. Murphy could cause havoc in there, and with regard to robbing Peter to pay Paul in terms of midfield parity, whilst Brian Fenton is in great form, neither Bastick or MDMA are pulling up trees. Factor in the loss of McCarthy (who is an absolutely class act) and his ability to hoover up loose ball and accelerate through the blanket on the right and the fact that McCaffrey did almost exactly the same, we are now wide open to the type of lateral passing and aimlessness that typify our worst displays.

It 's a pity O'Gara isn't there to offer the option of quicker ball. I'm not saying we're going to lose this, but if we have to defeat Donegal, Kerry and Tyrone on the way to this title, that is as hard a run in the All Ireland series as we've had this decade.

I agree with that, Donegal favourites in my eyes, big factor as well you will have three sets of supporters cheering on Donegal too so, it will be tough, if Dublin pull it off it will be a great achievement. 

Get up the yard.

2014 gone into sporting mythology as a "masterclass" of management.

Was at the game and beneath all the faff written and self written  about the game, imo the difference between two evenly matched teams was the fact Donegal took their goal chances and Dublin didn't. Oh did I mention that Donegal played brilliantly and had one of those days when everything they touched turned to gold.

Read somewhere that they actually put more points on the scoreboard than the amount of  actual chances they created.

Donegal's failure to follow up on the performance in the AIF cost them dearly.

Personallly glad it is Donegal in the quarters for us as there will be zero overconfidence I would think in the camp after that  2014 game.

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 02, 2016, 01:02:05 PM

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 02, 2016, 12:42:41 PM
I don't think Gallager needs to be a genius to figure this out. Without O'Carroll, McCaffrey and McCarthy this is a markedly weaker defence. Rory has been the best fullback in the country since 2011. Murphy could cause havoc in there, and with regard to robbing Peter to pay Paul in terms of midfield parity, whilst Brian Fenton is in great form, neither Bastick or MDMA are pulling up trees. Factor in the loss of McCarthy (who is an absolutely class act) and his ability to hoover up loose ball and accelerate through the blanket on the right and the fact that McCaffrey did almost exactly the same, we are now wide open to the type of lateral passing and aimlessness that typify our worst displays.

It 's a pity O'Gara isn't there to offer the option of quicker ball. I'm not saying we're going to lose this, but if we have to defeat Donegal, Kerry and Tyrone on the way to this title, that is as hard a run in the All Ireland series as we've had this decade.

I agree with that, Donegal favourites in my eyes, big factor as well you will have three sets of supporters cheering on Donegal too so, it will be tough, if Dublin pull it off it will be a great achievement.

Most supporters will be on their way home! Especially the losing fans! Just like most of the Dublin supporters will be in the pubs for the Mayo/Tyrone match! The Stadium will be half empty for the main part of both games.

No it won't. Croke Park will be at least 3/4 full for the full day. On the game itself, you'd have to fancy Dublin but the loss of the 3 defenders is a big blow as McCarthy and McCaffrey add the pace you need to breakdown Donegal's defensive system and O'Carroll provides a significant bulwark against the long ball. Without all 3 Dublin are bound to be weakened though I doubt it will be enough to lose this weekend. It's just too hard to see how Donegal can both keep the Dublin score down and get enough themselves to win.

Quote from: Zulu on August 02, 2016, 01:48:42 PM
No it won't. Croke Park will be at least 3/4 full for the full day. On the game itself, you'd have to fancy Dublin but the loss of the 3 defenders is a big blow as McCarthy and McCaffrey add the pace you need to breakdown Donegal's defensive system and O'Carroll provides a significant bulwark against the long ball. Without all 3 Dublin are bound to be weakened though I doubt it will be enough to lose this weekend. It's just too hard to see how Donegal can both keep the Dublin score down and get enough themselves to win.

Goals are what could do it.
Dubs have given up goals chances in every game.

Although Dubs likely to create goal chances too.

If Dublin were going into next Saturday's game with last year's team I'd be confident that they would beat Donegal. But with three All Stars off the team the advantage has definitely swung to Donegal. The big question is will Donegal be able to compete with Kerry in the semi-final?

"For all the talk of Donegal ageing, the team continues to get younger"


Jim McGuinness points out that Donegal are getting younger, not older.

Highlighting one of the great achievements of his successor at the Tir Chonail helm, McGuinness expresses his admiration for the subtle manner in which Rory Gallagher has replenished what many wrongly consider to be an ageing side:

"For all the talk of Donegal ageing, the team continues to get younger, which is interesting in itself," the 2012 All-Ireland winning manager writes in The Irish Times. "Since he has become manager, Gallagher has introduced new players who have subtly but significantly altered the profile of the team.

"Eoin McHugh and Marty O'Reilly can inject serious pace while Odhrán MacNiallais and Ryan McHugh have become very important players.

"So what he has managed to do is to quietly assemble a new team even while people are banging on about an old Donegal team."
http://hoganstand.com/ArticleForm.aspx?ID=259010

Read somewhere that Donegal's average age was younger than Tyrone's in the Ulster final.

I think McGuinness got lucky in 2014, at one stage a 15/16 point beating looked to be on the cards, the gulf in class was that big. However Dublin played pure football that year and naively pushed all their players up the field leaving massive gaps in behind that Donegal exploited ruthlessly in behind. Dublin haven't made the same mistake since with the stationing of O'Sullivan as sweeper and a more structured gameplan. I do believe that Dublin are vulnerable in defence again though, however I don't think Donegal have enough in them to beat Dublin. I'd expect the Dubs to win comfortably on Saturday, however they could be in for the mother of all battles against Kerry in the semi final.

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 02, 2016, 04:14:52 PM
"For all the talk of Donegal ageing, the team continues to get younger"


Jim McGuinness points out that Donegal are getting younger, not older.

Highlighting one of the great achievements of his successor at the Tir Chonail helm, McGuinness expresses his admiration for the subtle manner in which Rory Gallagher has replenished what many wrongly consider to be an ageing side:

"For all the talk of Donegal ageing, the team continues to get younger, which is interesting in itself," the 2012 All-Ireland winning manager writes in The Irish Times. "Since he has become manager, Gallagher has introduced new players who have subtly but significantly altered the profile of the team.

"Eoin McHugh and Marty O'Reilly can inject serious pace while Odhrán MacNiallais and Ryan McHugh have become very important players.

"So what he has managed to do is to quietly assemble a new team even while people are banging on about an old Donegal team."
http://hoganstand.com/ArticleForm.aspx?ID=259010

More mischief by McGuinness.

The bulk of that team and the players being utilised by Gallagher are four years older than when Donegal won the AI.

They were players who were in their peak years (25-28) at that time.

Basically, we're fairly old in defense and very youthful in attack!

Line-up from Cork game

1 Mark Anthony Mc Ginley
2 Paddy Mc Grath - 27
3 Neil McGee - 30
4 Eamon McGee - 32
5 Ryan Mc Hugh - 22
6 Karl Lacey -32
7 Frank Mc Glynn - 30
8 Rory Kavanagh - 34
9 Martin Mc Elhinney - 28
10 Anthony Thompson - 30
11 Odhrán Mac Niallais - 23
12 Eoin Mc Hugh - 21/22
13 Patrick Mc Brearty - 23
14 Michael Murphy - 26
15 Martin O' Reilly - 23

Christy Toye - 33
Leo McLoone - 27
Mark McHugh - 26
Ciaran Gillespie - 19/20

Not sure what age McGinley is. He played soccer for UCD for years, and played a bit with Harps too I think, so I'd imagine mid to late 20s.

Quote from: Canalman on August 02, 2016, 01:21:33 PM
2014 gone into sporting mythology as a "masterclass" of management.

Was at the game and beneath all the faff written and self written  about the game, imo the difference between two evenly matched teams was the fact Donegal took their goal chances and Dublin didn't. Oh did I mention that Donegal played brilliantly and had one of those days when everything they touched turned to gold.

Read somewhere that they actually put more points on the scoreboard than the amount of  actual chances they created.

Donegal's failure to follow up on the performance in the AIF cost them dearly.

Personallly glad it is Donegal in the quarters for us as there will be zero overconfidence I would think in the camp after that  2014 game.

They never got going in the final at all. What happened?

I see McGuinness agrees with me that Donegal have to leave two or three men up front and really go for it via the Dubs as they will not score enough otherwise.
http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/jim-mcguinness-dublin-v-donegal-and-mayo-v-tyrone-a-huge-day-for-football-1.2741881 (http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/jim-mcguinness-dublin-v-donegal-and-mayo-v-tyrone-a-huge-day-for-football-1.2741881)

Quote from: J70 on August 01, 2016, 09:18:04 PM
What we need is a swirling gale force wind and driving rain. Drag them down to our level! See if they can handle Ballyshannon in February type elements! :P :)

So, similar weather to the 2015 All Ireland Final then??

Quote from: J70 on August 02, 2016, 06:09:04 PM
Basically, we're fairly old in defense and very youthful in attack!

Line-up from Cork game

1 Mark Anthony Mc Ginley
2 Paddy Mc Grath - 27
3 Neil McGee - 30
4 Eamon McGee - 32
5 Ryan Mc Hugh - 22
6 Karl Lacey -32
7 Frank Mc Glynn - 30
8 Rory Kavanagh - 34
9 Martin Mc Elhinney - 28
10 Anthony Thompson - 30
11 Odhrán Mac Niallais - 23
12 Eoin Mc Hugh - 21/22
13 Patrick Mc Brearty - 23
14 Michael Murphy - 26
15 Martin O' Reilly - 23

Christy Toye - 33
Leo McLoone - 27
Mark McHugh - 26
Ciaran Gillespie - 19/20

Not sure what age McGinley is. He played soccer for UCD for years, and played a bit with Harps too I think, so I'd imagine mid to late 20s.

McGinley is 26

http://extratime.ie/player/1235152/mark_mcginley/

James McCarthy back for the Dubs. That puts us in with a chance.


http://www.dublingaa.ie/news/mccarthy-returns-for-quarter-final-against-donegal

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 05, 2016, 10:05:47 PM
James McCarthy back for the Dubs. That puts us in with a chance.


http://www.dublingaa.ie/news/mccarthy-returns-for-quarter-final-against-donegal

😂

Dublin to win pulling up..... 8+

No changes for Donegal

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CpKvs4iXEAA2BWh.jpg)

I saw the last attempt Donegal made at this back in April and even though it was relatively close at half time it was already well over with Dublin playing within themselves and their bench still to be emptied.

Winning this one would make 2014 look minor - Donegal are worse than they were two years ago and Dublin are better.

Diarmuid Connolly really has to rise above that sort of stuff.

Tr**p behaviour by Murphy.

Quote from: hardstation on August 06, 2016, 06:15:49 PM
Murphy lucky he didn't walk there

Absolutely. Fenton went low a bit, but closed fist. Jaysus his face looks like the Elephant Man after it.

Murphy's punch was similar to Donaghy's last week, but apparently many think such contact is not even worth a yellow card.

It's an almost legal method  to knock someone's block off, just pretend you're tackling and land the uppercut with venom.

Yeah it's a dirty action knew exactly what he's at.

Quote from: Main Street on August 06, 2016, 06:21:58 PM
Murphy's punch was similar to Donaghy's last week, but apparently many think such contact is not even worth a yellow card.

It's an almost legal method  to knock someone's block off, just pretend you're tackling and land the uppercut with venom.

if it was on the street it would be assault

Murphy lucky

Kevin McMenamin gets away with steps every time .

Quote from: ashman on August 06, 2016, 06:26:19 PM
Murphy lucky

Kevin McMenamin gets away with steps every time .

Small steps 😃

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 06, 2016, 06:27:23 PM

Quote from: ashman on August 06, 2016, 06:26:19 PM
Murphy lucky

Kevin McMenamin gets away with steps every time .

Small steps 😃

Padraig Joyce steps

Have to say, its an intriguin..zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

This is utterly boring .  Dublin's near pro fitness levels are killing the sport .

Donegal v poor. So boring compared to the first game.
HQ will be happy though.

The sport is not a level playing field anymore back to the olympics .  The gap in power and pace is not consistent with amateur sport.

Quote from: manfromdelmonte on August 06, 2016, 06:30:12 PM

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 06, 2016, 06:27:23 PM

Quote from: ashman on August 06, 2016, 06:26:19 PM
Murphy lucky

Kevin McMenamin gets away with steps every time .

Small steps 😃

Padraig Joyce steps

Surely not smaller than Sean Cavanagh's mini tap dance on the spot?

That might make it more interesting.
Delighted to see the yays quietened

Where is Karl Lacey going with that hair

Game on now.

Dublins lack of discipline at times is their only real weakness!

At least the game has somewhat came to life with that Donegal goal and Connolly sending off.

modern day football is almost as boring as soccer at times not having a go at this game in particular but football in general all this going back & forward stuff

Quote from: thebar on August 06, 2016, 07:22:04 PM
modern day football is almost as boring as soccer at times not having a go at this game in particular but football in general all this going back & forward stuff

Agree the hand pass must be limited .  They rules need to be tweeked not the championship formula .

Kilkenney took.about 12 steps after he got that break ball..

Dublin were rattled lost all discipline. Hard luck Donegal good effort just came up short.

Can you drop kick a free kick?

Dublin very beatable looking at today's performance, looked ragged at times. Kerry v Dublin could go either way.

If Kerry start with Donaghy anywhere near midfield they will get hosed.

Quote from: yellowcard on August 06, 2016, 07:52:50 PM
Dublin very beatable looking at today's performance, looked ragged at times. Kerry v Dublin could go either way.

Hopefully both of them lose.  ;)

Quote from: muppet on August 06, 2016, 09:31:56 PM

Quote from: yellowcard on August 06, 2016, 07:52:50 PM
Dublin very beatable looking at today's performance, looked ragged at times. Kerry v Dublin could go either way.

Hopefully both of them lose.  ;)

It'd take something like that for a Mayo All-Ireland alright.

Quote from: Jinxy on August 06, 2016, 08:06:13 PM
If Kerry start with Donaghy anywhere near midfield they will get hosed.

They could send Donaghy to the Moon and they'll still be hosed.

Dublin end up with 2 on the line, didn't think much in the O`Gara one, but how Murphy was not sent off beggers believe, very poor tackle whether accidental or on purpose should seen the line. look at the incident then the O`Gara one, which was the more dangerous, Plus why a northern ref involved in the game when a northern team is playing, the ref used to be different provinces for these games

Thought we did better than I expected and certainly was expecting after five minutes of the second half. In the end though, Diarmuid Connolly's excellence was the key difference between the sides for me. His scores and few more from some of the other Dublin forwards were top class, while Donegal were awful in front of the posts, often from similar positions, and only really got success from running at the Dublin defence and winning frees. I suppose some will say Donegal should have pushed on earlier, but would they have still been in the match late on if they had? But then, even at only three points and a man extra we never really looked capable of reeling them in and conceded the inevitable late Dublin goal anyway. I would think Kerry will be feeling a bit better about themselves tonight though.

Murphy... we need to do something to help the lad from next year. The way we are playing just doesn't do him any favours. And you can't just throw him in there on a day like today and expect to win 30-70 balls against a team like Dublin.
And he needs to watch himself. He should have got the line today for sure. Even if he was trying to get the ball, he could have seriously hurt that lad, and judging by the welt on his jaw, was lucky he didn't.

I know we've been saying it every year, but there has to be changes next year in personnel. Ciaran Thompson FINALLY got a run today, and did very well in that one burst to almost get in for a goal chance before being fouled. Lacey just doesn't have the legs to influence the game like he used to, while Rory Kavanagh looked well off the pace too and I'd expect he'll pack it in again. I would guess Colm McFadden will retire after being rarely used. Can't imagine how we will replace Neil Gallagher, who was badly missed again today. Overall, we need some youth in there in that half-back line to help the McHughs on those breaks. Too often the Donegal ball carriers are running into blind alleys with no support.

That referee was a f**kin joke today.  Completely bottled sending off Michael Murphy for his assault on Brian Fenton at the the start of the game. If he does his job and not been the cowardly pr**k, Dubs would have strolled to victory. Eoghan O'Gara red card a joke.

Donegal were a disgrace today. I'm all for 100% commitment give everything but the amount off off the ball verbals, dives, late hits and cheap shots after the ball was gone from Donegal today was a farce. Justice done in the end.  Thank god no has to watch their anti football sh**te anymore this season

Maxi Curran must be in running for all star. Covered a lot of ground today . The fastest donegal players moved was running after referee

Quote from: dublin7 on August 07, 2016, 03:10:09 AM


Donegal were a disgrace today. I'm all for 100% commitment give everything but the amount off off the ball verbals, dives, late hits and cheap shots after the ball was gone from Donegal today was a farce. Justice done in the end.  Thank god no has to watch their anti football sh**te anymore this season

Watching the game as a neutral I would have to say Dublin were as bad cynical as Donegal .

From the moment O'Gara came on McGee had no interest in playing football. All he done was goad him. Shoulder him. At one stage he tripped up and O'Gara ended up on the ground. Now, O'Gara shouldn't have reacted as he did but the umpires should have put a stop to it before it got to that stage.

Dublin can't call any team cynical.  I was at the game yesterday, and Dublin players checked the supporting runs of Donegal players all day.  Kevin McMenamin was especially bad (or good depending on your view point) at this, but if the ref and linesmen don't stamp it out then teams will do whatever is necessary to win football matches.

I lost count of the number of times the McHughs got their togs / jersey pulled back as they were trying to support runners.

Quote from: dublin7 on August 07, 2016, 03:10:09 AM
That referee was a f**kin joke today.  Completely bottled sending off Michael Murphy for his assault on Brian Fenton at the the start of the game. If he does his job and not been the cowardly pr**k, Dubs would have strolled to victory. Eoghan O'Gara red card a joke.

Donegal were a disgrace today. I'm all for 100% commitment give everything but the amount off off the ball verbals, dives, late hits and cheap shots after the ball was gone from Donegal today was a farce. Justice done in the end.  Thank god no has to watch their anti football sh**te anymore this season

Plenty of cynicism on view from the dubs too. And McMahon got away with a strike as well. And there should have one or two more black cards. So spare us the fake outrage.

Quote from: Smokin Joe on August 07, 2016, 08:46:06 AM
Dublin can't call any team cynical.  I was at the game yesterday, and Dublin players checked the supporting runs of Donegal players all day.  Kevin McMenamin was especially bad (or good depending on your view point) at this, but if the ref and linesmen don't stamp it out then teams will do whatever is necessary to win football matches.

I lost count of the number of times the McHughs got their togs / jersey pulled back as they were trying to support runners.
[/quote
Cynicism is stamped out by the black card. Doesn't exist anymore. Joe brolly Tony scullion and someone else promised us the rules would eradicate it.

Quote from: kerryforsam16 on August 07, 2016, 07:54:46 AM
Maxi Curran must be in running for all star. Covered a lot of ground today . The fastest donegal players moved was running after referee

Must have been half a dozen players sprinted up to the ref demanding Connolly should be sent off after his foul in the 2nd half. (Was a 2nd yellow, no doubt) If they showed that much drive & commitment to get up the pitch they would have had a better chance of winning.

Dubs were cruising in the 2nd half, got lazy and gifted Donegal the goal and couple of minutes later had Connolly sent off.  Got ragged in injury time but at that stage they only had 13 men.  Brogan called ashore when Connolly got sent off and didn't weaken dubs forwards shows how many options Gavin has up front.

Donegal only score 2 points from play in the game, but if you don't leave anyone in the opposition half you won't win.

McCarthy took part in the warm up and hopefully he will be fit in 3 weeks time for  Kerry

Great display by Dublin yesterday. Donegal were chasing the game from the throw-in and they never looked like they would catch the Dubs. This Dublin team does not easily fold as they showed after they had gifted Donegal a goal and then had Diarmuid Connolly sent off - even then they didn't look like they'd be caught. Some great scores from Connolly - no wonder teams work so hard to have him sent off. IMO the score of the game was the Paddy Andrews speciality point from close to the end line under Hill16.

Well done Dublin.

Always nice to beat Donegal and the fake card wagging.

Thought Cooper did well overall and under the high ball.

Having McCarthy back for Kerry will be a boost.

Still think this is Mayo's year.

Dubs to appeal O'Gara red card



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The suits will make sure he is available for the Kerry game.

Quote from: dublin7 on August 07, 2016, 03:10:09 AM
That referee was a f**kin joke today.  Completely bottled sending off Michael Murphy for his assault on Brian Fenton at the the start of the game. If he does his job and not been the cowardly pr**k, Dubs would have strolled to victory. Eoghan O'Gara red card a joke.

Donegal were a disgrace today. I'm all for 100% commitment give everything but the amount off off the ball verbals, dives, late hits and cheap shots after the ball was gone from Donegal today was a farce. Justice done in the end.  Thank god no has to watch their anti football sh**te anymore this season

I'd say the old blue tinted glasses were firmly in place when you were typing that rubbish.

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 07, 2016, 05:33:45 PM
Dubs to appeal O'Gara red card



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The suits will make sure he is available for the Kerry game.

Even if he's not available for the Kerry game he should be OK for the Tipperary game.

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 07, 2016, 02:14:47 PM
Great display by Dublin yesterday.

Tongue firmly in cheek when you typed that.

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 07, 2016, 06:13:03 PM

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 07, 2016, 05:33:45 PM
Dubs to appeal O'Gara red card



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The suits will make sure he is available for the Kerry game.

Even if he's not available for the Kerry game he should be OK for the Tipperary game.

Why? Is he togging out for Kerry? :P

Quote from: BluestackBoy on August 07, 2016, 05:51:33 PM

Quote from: dublin7 on August 07, 2016, 03:10:09 AM
That referee was a f**kin joke today.  Completely bottled sending off Michael Murphy for his assault on Brian Fenton at the the start of the game. If he does his job and not been the cowardly pr**k, Dubs would have strolled to victory. Eoghan O'Gara red card a joke.

Donegal were a disgrace today. I'm all for 100% commitment give everything but the amount off off the ball verbals, dives, late hits and cheap shots after the ball was gone from Donegal today was a farce. Justice done in the end.  Thank god no has to watch their anti football sh**te anymore this season

I'd say the old blue tinted glasses were firmly in place when you were typing that rubbish.

Michael Murphy has turned into one of the dirtiest players in the game.

Rory Kavanagh on the first 45 ran straight into Cluxton and shouldered him into the net before the kick was ever taken.

Why does Donegal need to indulge in this? It didn't do them any good

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 07, 2016, 05:33:45 PM
Dubs to appeal O'Gara red card



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The suits will make sure he is available for the Kerry game.

Nah.
They'll make an example of him because he's only a peripheral player.
If it was Dermo or Philly, that would be a different kettle of fish.

Quote from: INDIANA on August 07, 2016, 07:38:40 PM

Quote from: BluestackBoy on August 07, 2016, 05:51:33 PM

Quote from: dublin7 on August 07, 2016, 03:10:09 AM
That referee was a f**kin joke today.  Completely bottled sending off Michael Murphy for his assault on Brian Fenton at the the start of the game. If he does his job and not been the cowardly pr**k, Dubs would have strolled to victory. Eoghan O'Gara red card a joke.

Donegal were a disgrace today. I'm all for 100% commitment give everything but the amount off off the ball verbals, dives, late hits and cheap shots after the ball was gone from Donegal today was a farce. Justice done in the end.  Thank god no has to watch their anti football sh**te anymore this season

I'd say the old blue tinted glasses were firmly in place when you were typing that rubbish.

Michael Murphy has turned into one of the dirtiest players in the game.

Rory Kavanagh on the first 45 ran straight into Cluxton and shouldered him into the net before the kick was ever taken.

Why does Donegal need to indulge in this? It didn't do them any good

Probably the Rory Gallagher influence. You never saw these antics under McGuinness. They were poorly disciplined against us in league. Never saw a Donegal team give away so many frees and we scored 8 placed balls that day. Gallagher and his assistant were ranting and raving on the sidleline all throughout game

How many red cards has Connolly got this year? 1 game suspension if you get a few or is that only for accumulation of black/yellow?

Mannion is some player.
Where's Costello gone?

Quote from: Jinxy on August 07, 2016, 08:24:41 PM

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 07, 2016, 05:33:45 PM
Dubs to appeal O'Gara red card



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The suits will make sure he is available for the Kerry game.

Nah.
They'll make an example of him because he's only a peripheral player.
If it was Dermo or Philly, that would be a different kettle of fish.

having just seen it he has to get off. Joke of a decision. Don't blame the ref though - the umpire called it

Quote from: ballinaman on August 07, 2016, 10:18:58 PM
How many red cards has Connolly got this year? 1 game suspension if you get a few or is that only for accumulation of black/yellow?

That's the first red (double yellow in last 48 weeks)

Quote from: heffo on August 07, 2016, 10:36:57 PM

Quote from: ballinaman on August 07, 2016, 10:18:58 PM
How many red cards has Connolly got this year? 1 game suspension if you get a few or is that only for accumulation of black/yellow?

That's the first red (double yellow in last 48 weeks)

Grand! Swear he's been off a rake of times this year by way some are going on!

Quote from: hardstation on August 07, 2016, 10:54:55 PM

Quote from: straightred on August 07, 2016, 10:34:43 PM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 07, 2016, 08:24:41 PM

Quote from: From the Bunker on August 07, 2016, 05:33:45 PM
Dubs to appeal O'Gara red card



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The suits will make sure he is available for the Kerry game.

Nah.
They'll make an example of him because he's only a peripheral player.
If it was Dermo or Philly, that would be a different kettle of fish.

having just seen it he has to get off. Joke of a decision. Don't blame the ref though - the umpire called it

While I agree it's a harsh sending off, he was put off for a strike. He did strike.

there has to be natural justice. Ref indicated a punch put it wasn't a punch. Maybe that's the technicality that they need?

Or a few inches lower.

I was very nervy before this game, glad we got it over with. I really think all the chopping and changing in defence is effecting us right through out the team - we are not creating or converting goal chances at the same rate as previous years - though Connolly should have bagged a brace.

According to Al Brogan on twitter McCarthy is goosed for the year, no matter him taking part in warm ups. As for the controversies, Dermo didn't deserve his first yellow as yer man was at him from before the whistle. Doesn't excuse the stupidity for making the second challenge, knowing he was on a yellow, so he had to go.

O'Gara's sending off was a complete joke as Mcgee had nothing on his mind but annoyance as soon as he came on the pitch. Honestly, what is a player meant to do? Ten years ago against Laois, Darren Rooney was at the same craic against Alan Brogan - instead of striking, Brogan pointed at the score board - and thus the legend of the sledging Dubs was born. If O'Gara is going to be sent off for a tap, after basically being assaulted as soon as he got on the pitch, then the game is up for attackers.

For me, the dirtiest blow struck all day was Murphy's - not because I think he is a dirty player, but I think Donegal thought they needed to be revved up and extra physical to win. The carelessness of the challenge was incredible - he could have done awful damage. Fortunately for Murphy, the Dubs didn't react in the way the Donegal lads did after Connolly's challenge, otherwise it could have (should have) been straight red.

It was a pity to see Donegal like that - they are not a patch on the 2014 version, which gave the benchmark cerebral performance against us - there was real thought in that game, didn't seem to be much in this one. Talking to a few Donegal lads after and they reckon Murphy has been injured all year and given no real chance to recover. Interesting to compare how Rory O'Carroll can feel he can take a year off, whilst Murphy (same age) has to be retread constantly. Not fair on such a great player, but I suppose given Donegal's panel depth, that is the way it is going to be. If I was the Donegal management team I'd be saying to Murphy see you next May - don't bother about the league, just recharge over the winter.

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 09:36:17 AM
I was very nervy before this game, glad we got it over with. I really think all the chopping and changing in defence is effecting us right through out the team - we are not creating or converting goal chances at the same rate as previous years - though Connolly should have bagged a brace.

According to Al Brogan on twitter McCarthy is goosed for the year, no matter him taking part in warm ups. As for the controversies, Dermo didn't deserve his first yellow as yer man was at him from before the whistle. Doesn't excuse the stupidity for making the second challenge, knowing he was on a yellow, so he had to go.

O'Gara's sending off was a complete joke as Mcgee had nothing on his mind but annoyance as soon as he came on the pitch. Honestly, what is a player meant to do? Ten years ago against Laois, Darren Rooney was at the same craic against Alan Brogan - instead of striking, Brogan pointed at the score board - and thus the legend of the sledging Dubs was born. If O'Gara is going to be sent off for a tap, after basically being assaulted as soon as he got on the pitch, then the game is up for attackers.

For me, the dirtiest blow struck all day was Murphy's - not because I think he is a dirty player, but I think Donegal thought they needed to be revved up and extra physical to win. The carelessness of the challenge was incredible - he could have done awful damage. Fortunately for Murphy, the Dubs didn't react in the way the Donegal lads did after Connolly's challenge, otherwise it could have (should have) been straight red.

It was a pity to see Donegal like that - they are not a patch on the 2014 version, which gave the benchmark cerebral performance against us - there was real thought in that game, didn't seem to be much in this one. Talking to a few Donegal lads after and they reckon Murphy has been injured all year and given no real chance to recover. Interesting to compare how Rory O'Carroll can feel he can take a year off, whilst Murphy (same age) has to be retread constantly. Not fair on such a great player, but I suppose given Donegal's panel depth, that is the way it is going to be. If I was the Donegal management team I'd be saying to Murphy see you next May - don't bother about the league, just recharge over the winter.

ET,

Your well off the mark with that one. The number 15 was marking Connolly and giving him plenty of belts etc away from play but it was the number 5 McHugh who was booked at the same time as Connolly. I thought it was a case of mistaken identidy until seeing it again. McHugh went to run past Connolly to support the play and was pulled back and wrestled to the ground by Connolly, it could just as easily have been a black as a yellow. He did the same with Lacey a few minutes before hand. It was obviously something the Dublin forwards had been instructed to do as any time a deep lying Donegal player went to make a run out to support the play he was either blocked off or pulled back.

All the talk about Dublin's advantages etc but having watched them on Saturday they are an exceptionally well coached team.

Quote from: ballinaman on August 07, 2016, 10:52:08 PM

Quote from: heffo on August 07, 2016, 10:36:57 PM

Quote from: ballinaman on August 07, 2016, 10:18:58 PM
How many red cards has Connolly got this year? 1 game suspension if you get a few or is that only for accumulation of black/yellow?

That's the first red (double yellow in last 48 weeks)

Grand! Swear he's been off a rake of times this year by way some are going on!

Exactly, his discipline is excellent the last few years considering what he has to put up with on the field,  again its driven by the rhetoric from the media and country folk. The same happens to him in club football all the time in every single match he plays for Vinnie's. He is targeted by the media, fuelled by slow motion click bait sites like balls and joe, firing up the country rhetoric of people who need someone to hate on the Dublin team.

There are far dirtier players out there and in years gone by.

He needs to be cuter though. He is obviously someone who can be got at, and unfortunately lads are working this angle. No matter how good he is, he's no good on the line. And Jim Gavin saying things like he encourages this players to stand up for themselves is stupid. I'm sure he's saying something else in the dressing room, about keeping your head and answering them on the scoreboard.

And Aristo.. if he's also getting it up in Dublin club matches, I presume it's only from the blow in Culchies, not from the pure Dub volk? :)

Quote from: oakleafgael on August 08, 2016, 09:45:00 AM

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 09:36:17 AM
I was very nervy before this game, glad we got it over with. I really think all the chopping and changing in defence is effecting us right through out the team - we are not creating or converting goal chances at the same rate as previous years - though Connolly should have bagged a brace.

According to Al Brogan on twitter McCarthy is goosed for the year, no matter him taking part in warm ups. As for the controversies, Dermo didn't deserve his first yellow as yer man was at him from before the whistle. Doesn't excuse the stupidity for making the second challenge, knowing he was on a yellow, so he had to go.

O'Gara's sending off was a complete joke as Mcgee had nothing on his mind but annoyance as soon as he came on the pitch. Honestly, what is a player meant to do? Ten years ago against Laois, Darren Rooney was at the same craic against Alan Brogan - instead of striking, Brogan pointed at the score board - and thus the legend of the sledging Dubs was born. If O'Gara is going to be sent off for a tap, after basically being assaulted as soon as he got on the pitch, then the game is up for attackers.

For me, the dirtiest blow struck all day was Murphy's - not because I think he is a dirty player, but I think Donegal thought they needed to be revved up and extra physical to win. The carelessness of the challenge was incredible - he could have done awful damage. Fortunately for Murphy, the Dubs didn't react in the way the Donegal lads did after Connolly's challenge, otherwise it could have (should have) been straight red.

It was a pity to see Donegal like that - they are not a patch on the 2014 version, which gave the benchmark cerebral performance against us - there was real thought in that game, didn't seem to be much in this one. Talking to a few Donegal lads after and they reckon Murphy has been injured all year and given no real chance to recover. Interesting to compare how Rory O'Carroll can feel he can take a year off, whilst Murphy (same age) has to be retread constantly. Not fair on such a great player, but I suppose given Donegal's panel depth, that is the way it is going to be. If I was the Donegal management team I'd be saying to Murphy see you next May - don't bother about the league, just recharge over the winter.

ET,

Your well off the mark with that one. The number 15 was marking Connolly and giving him plenty of belts etc away from play but it was the number 5 McHugh who was booked at the same time as Connolly. I thought it was a case of mistaken identidy until seeing it again. McHugh went to run past Connolly to support the play and was pulled back and wrestled to the ground by Connolly, it could just as easily have been a black as a yellow. He did the same with Lacey a few minutes before hand. It was obviously something the Dublin forwards had been instructed to do as any time a deep lying Donegal player went to make a run out to support the play he was either blocked off or pulled back.

All the talk about Dublin's advantages etc but having watched them on Saturday they are an exceptionally well coached team.

Fair dues Oakleaf, I'll take your word for it. I'd say no matter what happened on Saturday, the Dubs were told not to let Donegal run from deep at you - the one time they did (albeit after us giving it away) you could see how deadly they can be - it was a terrific goal and a real example on how to punish a mistake. Just a real pity that they couldn't work those same opportunities off their own possession, though to be fair, I though either Philly or Jonny Cooper could have been MOTM - great work inside on Murphy and McBrearty.

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 08, 2016, 10:01:01 AM
He needs to be cuter though. He is obviously someone who can be got at, and unfortunately lads are working this angle. No matter how good he is, he's no good on the line. And Jim Gavin saying things like he encourages this players to stand up for themselves is stupid. I'm sure he's saying something else in the dressing room, about keeping your head and answering them on the scoreboard.

And Aristo.. if he's also getting it up in Dublin club matches, I presume it's only from the blow in Culchies, not from the pure Dub volk? :)

It must be :) but Vincent's have had a lot runs through Leinster and all Ireland club in recent years and I have see it up close and personal at all levels.

Did anyone else think that Kilkenny could have been blown for over-carrying a number of times and for illegal handpasses?

Quote from: The Trap on August 08, 2016, 10:19:22 AM
Did anyone else think that Kilkenny could have been blown for over-carrying a number of times and for illegal handpasses?

No

Quote from: The Trap on August 08, 2016, 10:19:22 AM
Did anyone else think that Kilkenny could have been blown for over-carrying a number of times and for illegal handpasses?

Yes, 1 stage in the 2nd half he took about 10 steps with ball in hand - no-one was near him so think that's why he got away with it but I was astounded. He also has this almost rugby-like throw that he does, borderline legal

Quote from: The Trap on Today at 10:19:22 AM

Did anyone else think that Kilkenny could have been blown for over-carrying a number of times and for illegal handpasses?




No

You obviously don't know the rules Heffo!

Quote from: The Trap on August 08, 2016, 10:19:22 AM
Did anyone else think that Kilkenny could have been blown for over-carrying a number of times and for illegal handpasses?

yes, and not just Kilkenny.  A lot of players now seem to take about 10 steps whilst holding the ball, palm up, and by the time they get it adjusted to bounce it, they have taken twice the amount of allowed steps

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 10:11:38 AM

Quote from: oakleafgael on August 08, 2016, 09:45:00 AM

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 09:36:17 AM
I was very nervy before this game, glad we got it over with. I really think all the chopping and changing in defence is effecting us right through out the team - we are not creating or converting goal chances at the same rate as previous years - though Connolly should have bagged a brace.

According to Al Brogan on twitter McCarthy is goosed for the year, no matter him taking part in warm ups. As for the controversies, Dermo didn't deserve his first yellow as yer man was at him from before the whistle. Doesn't excuse the stupidity for making the second challenge, knowing he was on a yellow, so he had to go.

O'Gara's sending off was a complete joke as Mcgee had nothing on his mind but annoyance as soon as he came on the pitch. Honestly, what is a player meant to do? Ten years ago against Laois, Darren Rooney was at the same craic against Alan Brogan - instead of striking, Brogan pointed at the score board - and thus the legend of the sledging Dubs was born. If O'Gara is going to be sent off for a tap, after basically being assaulted as soon as he got on the pitch, then the game is up for attackers.

For me, the dirtiest blow struck all day was Murphy's - not because I think he is a dirty player, but I think Donegal thought they needed to be revved up and extra physical to win. The carelessness of the challenge was incredible - he could have done awful damage. Fortunately for Murphy, the Dubs didn't react in the way the Donegal lads did after Connolly's challenge, otherwise it could have (should have) been straight red.

It was a pity to see Donegal like that - they are not a patch on the 2014 version, which gave the benchmark cerebral performance against us - there was real thought in that game, didn't seem to be much in this one. Talking to a few Donegal lads after and they reckon Murphy has been injured all year and given no real chance to recover. Interesting to compare how Rory O'Carroll can feel he can take a year off, whilst Murphy (same age) has to be retread constantly. Not fair on such a great player, but I suppose given Donegal's panel depth, that is the way it is going to be. If I was the Donegal management team I'd be saying to Murphy see you next May - don't bother about the league, just recharge over the winter.

ET,

Your well off the mark with that one. The number 15 was marking Connolly and giving him plenty of belts etc away from play but it was the number 5 McHugh who was booked at the same time as Connolly. I thought it was a case of mistaken identidy until seeing it again. McHugh went to run past Connolly to support the play and was pulled back and wrestled to the ground by Connolly, it could just as easily have been a black as a yellow. He did the same with Lacey a few minutes before hand. It was obviously something the Dublin forwards had been instructed to do as any time a deep lying Donegal player went to make a run out to support the play he was either blocked off or pulled back.

All the talk about Dublin's advantages etc but having watched them on Saturday they are an exceptionally well coached team.

Fair dues Oakleaf, I'll take your word for it. I'd say no matter what happened on Saturday, the Dubs were told not to let Donegal run from deep at you - the one time they did (albeit after us giving it away) you could see how deadly they can be - it was a terrific goal and a real example on how to punish a mistake. Just a real pity that they couldn't work those same opportunities off their own possession, though to be fair, I though either Philly or Jonny Cooper could have been MOTM - great work inside on Murphy and McBrearty.

Thought it was Byrne myself did the marking on McBrearty most of the time.


Not the best of games for a neutral but with two absolute belters of goals in the second half.

Counted 18 alickadoos/ backroom staff on the pitch before the game with the Donegal team at the warmup. Dublin by contrast had 9 or 10.

Have to give JG some credit on the tactics. Not pretty, but seems to be the template to counter the blanket defence (which in fairness Dublin used at times also during the game).

Quote from: Canalman on August 08, 2016, 11:01:57 AM

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 10:11:38 AM

Quote from: oakleafgael on August 08, 2016, 09:45:00 AM

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 09:36:17 AM
I was very nervy before this game, glad we got it over with. I really think all the chopping and changing in defence is effecting us right through out the team - we are not creating or converting goal chances at the same rate as previous years - though Connolly should have bagged a brace.

According to Al Brogan on twitter McCarthy is goosed for the year, no matter him taking part in warm ups. As for the controversies, Dermo didn't deserve his first yellow as yer man was at him from before the whistle. Doesn't excuse the stupidity for making the second challenge, knowing he was on a yellow, so he had to go.

O'Gara's sending off was a complete joke as Mcgee had nothing on his mind but annoyance as soon as he came on the pitch. Honestly, what is a player meant to do? Ten years ago against Laois, Darren Rooney was at the same craic against Alan Brogan - instead of striking, Brogan pointed at the score board - and thus the legend of the sledging Dubs was born. If O'Gara is going to be sent off for a tap, after basically being assaulted as soon as he got on the pitch, then the game is up for attackers.

For me, the dirtiest blow struck all day was Murphy's - not because I think he is a dirty player, but I think Donegal thought they needed to be revved up and extra physical to win. The carelessness of the challenge was incredible - he could have done awful damage. Fortunately for Murphy, the Dubs didn't react in the way the Donegal lads did after Connolly's challenge, otherwise it could have (should have) been straight red.

It was a pity to see Donegal like that - they are not a patch on the 2014 version, which gave the benchmark cerebral performance against us - there was real thought in that game, didn't seem to be much in this one. Talking to a few Donegal lads after and they reckon Murphy has been injured all year and given no real chance to recover. Interesting to compare how Rory O'Carroll can feel he can take a year off, whilst Murphy (same age) has to be retread constantly. Not fair on such a great player, but I suppose given Donegal's panel depth, that is the way it is going to be. If I was the Donegal management team I'd be saying to Murphy see you next May - don't bother about the league, just recharge over the winter.

ET,

Your well off the mark with that one. The number 15 was marking Connolly and giving him plenty of belts etc away from play but it was the number 5 McHugh who was booked at the same time as Connolly. I thought it was a case of mistaken identidy until seeing it again. McHugh went to run past Connolly to support the play and was pulled back and wrestled to the ground by Connolly, it could just as easily have been a black as a yellow. He did the same with Lacey a few minutes before hand. It was obviously something the Dublin forwards had been instructed to do as any time a deep lying Donegal player went to make a run out to support the play he was either blocked off or pulled back.

All the talk about Dublin's advantages etc but having watched them on Saturday they are an exceptionally well coached team.

Fair dues Oakleaf, I'll take your word for it. I'd say no matter what happened on Saturday, the Dubs were told not to let Donegal run from deep at you - the one time they did (albeit after us giving it away) you could see how deadly they can be - it was a terrific goal and a real example on how to punish a mistake. Just a real pity that they couldn't work those same opportunities off their own possession, though to be fair, I though either Philly or Jonny Cooper could have been MOTM - great work inside on Murphy and McBrearty.

Thought it was Byrne myself did the marking on McBrearty most of the time.


Not the best of games for a neutral but with two absolute belters of goals in the second half.

Counted 18 alickadoos/ backroom staff on the pitch before the game with the Donegal team at the warmup. Dublin by contrast had 9 or 10.

Have to give JG some credit on the tactics. Not pretty, but seems to be the template to counter the blanket defence (which in fairness Dublin used at times also during the game).

FFS Dublin U-21 back-room team probably needs its own bus.  ;D

Quote from: muppet on August 08, 2016, 11:08:39 AM

Quote from: Canalman on August 08, 2016, 11:01:57 AM

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 10:11:38 AM

Quote from: oakleafgael on August 08, 2016, 09:45:00 AM

Quote from: easytiger95 on August 08, 2016, 09:36:17 AM
I was very nervy before this game, glad we got it over with. I really think all the chopping and changing in defence is effecting us right through out the team - we are not creating or converting goal chances at the same rate as previous years - though Connolly should have bagged a brace.

According to Al Brogan on twitter McCarthy is goosed for the year, no matter him taking part in warm ups. As for the controversies, Dermo didn't deserve his first yellow as yer man was at him from before the whistle. Doesn't excuse the stupidity for making the second challenge, knowing he was on a yellow, so he had to go.

O'Gara's sending off was a complete joke as Mcgee had nothing on his mind but annoyance as soon as he came on the pitch. Honestly, what is a player meant to do? Ten years ago against Laois, Darren Rooney was at the same craic against Alan Brogan - instead of striking, Brogan pointed at the score board - and thus the legend of the sledging Dubs was born. If O'Gara is going to be sent off for a tap, after basically being assaulted as soon as he got on the pitch, then the game is up for attackers.

For me, the dirtiest blow struck all day was Murphy's - not because I think he is a dirty player, but I think Donegal thought they needed to be revved up and extra physical to win. The carelessness of the challenge was incredible - he could have done awful damage. Fortunately for Murphy, the Dubs didn't react in the way the Donegal lads did after Connolly's challenge, otherwise it could have (should have) been straight red.

It was a pity to see Donegal like that - they are not a patch on the 2014 version, which gave the benchmark cerebral performance against us - there was real thought in that game, didn't seem to be much in this one. Talking to a few Donegal lads after and they reckon Murphy has been injured all year and given no real chance to recover. Interesting to compare how Rory O'Carroll can feel he can take a year off, whilst Murphy (same age) has to be retread constantly. Not fair on such a great player, but I suppose given Donegal's panel depth, that is the way it is going to be. If I was the Donegal management team I'd be saying to Murphy see you next May - don't bother about the league, just recharge over the winter.

ET,

Your well off the mark with that one. The number 15 was marking Connolly and giving him plenty of belts etc away from play but it was the number 5 McHugh who was booked at the same time as Connolly. I thought it was a case of mistaken identidy until seeing it again. McHugh went to run past Connolly to support the play and was pulled back and wrestled to the ground by Connolly, it could just as easily have been a black as a yellow. He did the same with Lacey a few minutes before hand. It was obviously something the Dublin forwards had been instructed to do as any time a deep lying Donegal player went to make a run out to support the play he was either blocked off or pulled back.

All the talk about Dublin's advantages etc but having watched them on Saturday they are an exceptionally well coached team.

Fair dues Oakleaf, I'll take your word for it. I'd say no matter what happened on Saturday, the Dubs were told not to let Donegal run from deep at you - the one time they did (albeit after us giving it away) you could see how deadly they can be - it was a terrific goal and a real example on how to punish a mistake. Just a real pity that they couldn't work those same opportunities off their own possession, though to be fair, I though either Philly or Jonny Cooper could have been MOTM - great work inside on Murphy and McBrearty.

Thought it was Byrne myself did the marking on McBrearty most of the time.


Not the best of games for a neutral but with two absolute belters of goals in the second half.

Counted 18 alickadoos/ backroom staff on the pitch before the game with the Donegal team at the warmup. Dublin by contrast had 9 or 10.

Have to give JG some credit on the tactics. Not pretty, but seems to be the template to counter the blanket defence (which in fairness Dublin used at times also during the game).

FFS Dublin U-21 back-room team probably needs its own bus.  ;D

You're deflecting now Muppet, we discussed the size of the record breaking Mayo backroom team last year - it's bigger than most county panels

Look who's deflecting now!  ;D

Who is the Donegal selector constantly running on to the pitch, seen him say a few words to the both sets of players and the ref? was standing literally next to the ref when he sent off Connolly.

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 08, 2016, 11:17:34 AM
Who is the Donegal selector constantly running on to the pitch, seen him say a few words to the both sets of players and the ref? was standing literally next to the ref when he sent off Connolly.

Maxi Curran, he covers some distance during a game! He shouldnt be on the pitch anywhere near as much as he is and its a recipe for a row some day.

Quote from: muppet on August 08, 2016, 11:15:43 AM
Look who's deflecting now!  ;D

Get up the yard, Sam is in your sights and you're giddy as hell!

Why was Kilkenny pointing all day when he was about to hit a pass? He often looked up towards a wing and pointed there before hitting a pass. Anyone else notice this?

Quote from: oakleafgael on August 08, 2016, 11:41:59 AM

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 08, 2016, 11:17:34 AM
Who is the Donegal selector constantly running on to the pitch, seen him say a few words to the both sets of players and the ref? was standing literally next to the ref when he sent off Connolly.

Maxi Curran, he covers some distance during a game! He shouldnt be on the pitch anywhere near as much as he is and its a recipe for a row some day.

Have you seen his Wikipedia entry?... "He is generally considered to be not right in the head."

;D  ;D  :D  :D

Quote from: Fear ón Srath Bán on August 08, 2016, 12:01:14 PM

Quote from: oakleafgael on August 08, 2016, 11:41:59 AM

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 08, 2016, 11:17:34 AM
Who is the Donegal selector constantly running on to the pitch, seen him say a few words to the both sets of players and the ref? was standing literally next to the ref when he sent off Connolly.

Maxi Curran, he covers some distance during a game! He shouldnt be on the pitch anywhere near as much as he is and its a recipe for a row some day.

Have you seen his Wikipedia entry?... "He is generally considered to be not right in the head."

;D  ;D  :D  :D

as the hill men say, he's a binlid, but he's our binlid

Quote from: Fuzzman on August 08, 2016, 12:01:00 PM
Why was Kilkenny pointing all day when he was about to hit a pass? He often looked up towards a wing and pointed there before hitting a pass. Anyone else notice this?

Sickening arrogance.  :D

(https://remarkableleader.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/calling-the-shot2.jpg?w=459)

Quote from: sambostar on August 08, 2016, 10:24:03 AM

Quote from: The Trap on August 08, 2016, 10:19:22 AM
Did anyone else think that Kilkenny could have been blown for over-carrying a number of times and for illegal handpasses?

Yes, 1 stage in the 2nd half he took about 10 steps with ball in hand - no-one was near him so think that's why he got away with it but I was astounded. He also has this almost rugby-like throw that he does, borderline legal

He's definitely got a new style of handpassing that looks like a rugby throw. Hard to know whether it's legal / illegal without watching it on TV though.

If the holding hand moves, it's illegal. It certainly looked like it a couple of times on Saturday. He got on an awful lot of ball, but did he actually contribute much to scoring moves?

He learned this technique from MDMA, the ultimate master of the thrown hand-pass.

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 08, 2016, 01:44:52 PM
If the holding hand moves, it's illegal. It certainly looked like it a couple of times on Saturday. He got on an awful lot of ball, but did he actually contribute much to scoring moves?

The sky fellas kept highlighting the amount of 'possessions' he had but majority of them were under no pressure whatsoever with not a Donegal man in sight. Cracking player mind you, hes having a great year.

Yeah. I read he had 52 possessions or something. But that is only an impressive stat if you are actually getting on the ball 52 times under duress/pressure from opponents. The way Donegal ceded possession to himself and Small made that a sort of meaningless stat in my view. I'm not sure of the stats on this, so I may be talking through my hole on this, but it seemed as if Kilkenny did a lot of lateral, keep ball, kind of work, but I don't think many scoring bursts involved him doing anything particularly creative.

They'd call those 'cheap' stats in aussie rules.

While I'd agree that a lot of what he did on Saturday was lateral, a lot of that has to do with the line Donegal played across the middle. And whilst he didn't have his most creative game, I think what he did do, which was get on a mountain of ball, draw the defender and then pop it off to the player on the overlap, was central to dragging the Donegal defence out of position.

I know he was nominally a wing back on the day, but if you look at someone like Paul Flynn, who really hasn't been at the level he is capable of for the past season and a half, Kilkenny is now performing his role of absolutely dominating possession across the half forward line. Flynn, at his best, is probably more explosive than Ciaran, but the killer stat I'd like to see is how many of his possessions resulted in a turnover? Very, very few. If you have a guy who has the positional sense to hoover up that much ball, that in and of itself, is denying Donegal oxygen.

For example, he was back in the corner back position late on to break a ball away from the Donegal attack - about a minute later he popped up at wing forward on the far side of the pitch and won a great ball in the air when Cluxton had to go long. He is a proper player.

No doubt, but he didn't play in the half forward line on Saturday. Donegal basically conceded him possession, and let him do what he wanted, which was obviously to focus on keeping possession and trying to switch play as much as he could. But I didn't think he was particularly impressive in that it wasn't a challenging role. I'd say he enjoyed the freedom.

Quote from: oakleafgael on August 08, 2016, 11:41:59 AM

Quote from: The Aristocrat on August 08, 2016, 11:17:34 AM
Who is the Donegal selector constantly running on to the pitch, seen him say a few words to the both sets of players and the ref? was standing literally next to the ref when he sent off Connolly.

Maxi Curran, he covers some distance during a game! He shouldnt be on the pitch anywhere near as much as he is and its a recipe for a row some day.

At one time he ran across the pitch as Cluxton was lining up for a kick out and blocked the path to a loose Dublin player. You wouldn't see it in any other sport.

He was actually quite advanced for a wing back, a couple of times in the first twenty minutes he was caught out quite badly defensively by McHugh.

My basic point is that Dublin used him intelligently and because he is an intelligent player himself. To use a soccer analogy, he was quite Roy Keane like, he sat around midfield, and set the pattern of the game, which was slow, patient and Dublin dominating possession - and he did that through all those handpasses. Dublin set the pattern, and rather than running into Donegal's blanket, suffocated them by monopolising the ball.

It was no accident that he ended up on the ball as much as he did - Dublin trust him and have done since 2012 to be a focal point for attack. Saturday he did it from a deeper position and I'd say Donegal were sick of seeing him on the ball - anytime they did get close to him, they couldn't dispossess him because he's a bull of a young fella.

I think Donegal were quite happy to see him on the ball. Not that they don't rate him, but they were happy to have a lad sitting that deep going from side to side and backwards. I'm not getting that this was some sort of quarterback display by Kilkenny, but I'll watch the game again. I'd like to chart his 52 possessions.

I'm not saying he was a quarter back like Tom Brady - I'm saying that he set the pattern of the game, which was to slow down possession around the middle third and whatever happened in terms of the attack, to make sure the ball was recycled on the Dublin side.

The nightmare scenario for Dublin was to take the ball in around the Donegal 45, lose it there, and then get hit hard, as happened after 25 mins in 2014, and for the goal on Saturday. Kilkenny deliberately slowed everything down, we weren't going hell for leather at them, and he said himself afterwards, the whole mantra of the team going in was "patience". So whilst he may not have been threading balls through for scores or taking them himself, he was performing two roles - slow the ball down around the middle, and recycle possession if an attack broke down. Not flashy at all, and he will have better games as an individual, but he was vital in setting the pattern Dublin wanted to play, and it was Dublin who got him on the ball all the time for that, not Donegal letting him have it. Even if Donegal had tried to push up on him, he would have still been the fulcrum because he is so confident and strong in possession.

OK fair enough, and I agree he was obviously operating to a plan. But I think I heard he got man of the match, and people were talking about his possession stats. I'm just saying he got on a lot of ball as a result of Donegal's set up, and I didn't think he did anything with that ball other than, as you say, making sure they stuck to the gameplan and kept the ball alive and in Dublin's hands.

I'm just biased AZ, he's from around my locality. G'wan the D15  ;D

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 08, 2016, 04:50:11 PM
OK fair enough, and I agree he was obviously operating to a plan. But I think I heard he got man of the match, and people were talking about his possession stats. I'm just saying he got on a lot of ball as a result of Donegal's set up, and I didn't think he did anything with that ball other than, as you say, making sure they stuck to the gameplan and kept the ball alive and in Dublin's hands.

He also has more posessions than anyone else in the AI final v Kerry last year and was my MOTM

Different gravy heffo. I'm not disputing his ability, I'm just highlighting that in a game set up like Saturday, a high number of possessions for him was not unexpected, nor did it necessarily give an indication as to his performance. Some outlets were using his high possession stats as a pointer to how well he played. I think any player deployed in that way would have had huge possession stats v Donegal.

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 08, 2016, 04:37:18 PM
I think Donegal were quite happy to see him on the ball. Not that they don't rate him, but they were happy to have a lad sitting that deep going from side to side and backwards. I'm not getting that this was some sort of quarterback display by Kilkenny, but I'll watch the game again. I'd like to chart his 52 possessions.

To be fair, he did throw a lot of passes.

Quote from: Jinxy on August 08, 2016, 07:31:06 PM

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 08, 2016, 04:37:18 PM
I think Donegal were quite happy to see him on the ball. Not that they don't rate him, but they were happy to have a lad sitting that deep going from side to side and backwards. I'm not getting that this was some sort of quarterback display by Kilkenny, but I'll watch the game again. I'd like to chart his 52 possessions.

To be fair, he did throw a lot of passes.

Probably a bigger back room team though.  ;D

Just listenied to Game On and Bernard Flynn was going on about Connolly being targeted on Saturday and getting sent off........what game do these boys watch, such lazy analysis. Connolly was sent off for:
1. Blocking Ryan mchugh from making a run forward off the ball. Was lucky not to get a black for this
2. A high tackle
Being targeted had nothing to do with it. By the way I am a big fan and his two points were the highlight of the day.

Some of the people giving expert opinions do bug me though. They are like sheep!

And when I am on it, every year the analysis seems to change at about quarter final stage. Everything becomes more positive. Is it because RTE and SKy want to keep on the right side of the Gaa at the end of the season so they can compete for the rights?

The Ulster final was slated for being a bore fest yet there was no negativity about Tyrone and Mayo despite it being a very similar game.........

Quote from: muppet on August 08, 2016, 08:38:23 PM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 08, 2016, 07:31:06 PM

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 08, 2016, 04:37:18 PM
I think Donegal were quite happy to see him on the ball. Not that they don't rate him, but they were happy to have a lad sitting that deep going from side to side and backwards. I'm not getting that this was some sort of quarterback display by Kilkenny, but I'll watch the game again. I'd like to chart his 52 possessions.

To be fair, he did throw a lot of passes.

Probably a bigger back room team though.  ;D

Embrace the confidence Muppet, don't fear it - Saturday was your Dublin v Tyrone in 2011 moment.

Quote from: heffo on August 08, 2016, 08:55:55 PM

Quote from: muppet on August 08, 2016, 08:38:23 PM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 08, 2016, 07:31:06 PM

Quote from: AZOffaly on August 08, 2016, 04:37:18 PM
I think Donegal were quite happy to see him on the ball. Not that they don't rate him, but they were happy to have a lad sitting that deep going from side to side and backwards. I'm not getting that this was some sort of quarterback display by Kilkenny, but I'll watch the game again. I'd like to chart his 52 possessions.

To be fair, he did throw a lot of passes.

Probably a bigger back room team though.  ;D

Embrace the confidence Muppet, don't fear it - Saturday was your Dublin v Tyrone in 2011 moment.

One game at a time....
Tipp will be really up for this one...
Lookit Des, I suppose, as such, very much so.....
....no marquee forwards....gasp!...
...key players injured.....blow!.....
...no cups handed out in August....wheeze!...
...players' strike.......breathe! breathe!....

Embrace......
The...
Confidence...
He..
Said.....

(http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/fpdnw.gif)

Quote from: Smokin Joe on August 07, 2016, 08:46:06 AM
Dublin can't call any team cynical.  I was at the game yesterday, and Dublin players checked the supporting runs of Donegal players all day.  Kevin McMenamin was especially bad (or good depending on your view point) at this, but if the ref and linesmen don't stamp it out then teams will do whatever is necessary to win football matches.

I lost count of the number of times the McHughs got their togs / jersey pulled back as they were trying to support runners.

That seemed to happen a lot could have been a few black cards for sure.

Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Quote from: J70 on August 09, 2016, 12:49:56 AM
Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Two great players who I won't be sorry to see the back of (for the right reasons)

Quote from: heffo on August 09, 2016, 08:19:27 AM

Quote from: J70 on August 09, 2016, 12:49:56 AM
Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Two great players who I won't be sorry to see the back of (for the right reasons)

McFadden was a very special player. If his powerful shot in the 2011 semi final had been an inch lower rather than smashing off the crossbar history might have been very different.

Eamonn McGee does the standard GAA thing of posting a lengthy passage by J.R.R. Tolkien on Twitter to announce his retirement.
Sick of lads doing that.

Quote from: Jinxy on August 09, 2016, 10:18:32 AM
Eamonn McGee does the standard GAA thing of posting a lengthy passage by J.R.R. Tolkien on Twitter to announce his retirement.
Sick of lads doing that.

Beats having a prepared statement issued by the GPA anyway.

Does Donegal fans expect there to be any more retirements or will they wait til the new year.
I'd expect Lacey(31) and Thompson(30) to go. McGlynn is 30 too I see but he'll probably stay on will he?
They've put a lot of effort in the last 5 or 6 years.
I can see the two McMahons retiring but not sure about Sean Cavanagh.

Michael Murphy should take a long break, sit out the league next year, and get himself right.
I'd hate to see him have to retire before he's even 30.

Quote from: Jinxy on August 09, 2016, 10:18:32 AM
Eamonn McGee does the standard GAA thing of posting a lengthy passage by J.R.R. Tolkien on Twitter to announce his retirement.
Sick of lads doing that.

He seems to be a very laid back, down to earth lad. Always funny, interesting, self-deprecating tweets. Totally at odds with his McGee brother reputation on the field!

He said in an interview this week that he just didn't feel good enough for  inter-county level anymore, pointing to his not being able to cope with Sean Cavanagh in the Ulster final.

Eamon McGee and J.R.R. Tolkien, i actually pleasantly surprised he actually read it to know where to get it!!

Quote from: Fuzzman on August 09, 2016, 02:09:03 PM
Does Donegal fans expect there to be any more retirements or will they wait til the new year.
I'd expect Lacey(31) and Thompson(30) to go. McGlynn is 30 too I see but he'll probably stay on will he?
They've put a lot of effort in the last 5 or 6 years.
I can see the two McMahons retiring but not sure about Sean Cavanagh.

I think Thompson and McGlynn still have plenty to offer. Don't think Lacey has been anywhere near as effective as he used to be. He used to dominate matches, and before that corner forwards. Kavanagh and Neil Gallagher are two others. Christy Toye played well as a sub this year, but that lad has been in the team since 2002! However, he did miss the guts of two seasons through illness a few years back, so maybe he is still a bit fresher.

I would agree with others that Murphy could use a break for next year's league.

Cavanagh is about since 2002 as well, right?

Quote from: Jinxy on August 09, 2016, 02:12:49 PM
Michael Murphy should take a long break, sit out the league next year, and get himself right.
I'd hate to see him have to retire before he's even 30.

Not playing like a brat in every game would be nice too. He leaves his calling card everywhere these days except on the scoreboard

Maybe some of that is down to his frustration that he's physically struggling.

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 09, 2016, 08:59:45 AM

Quote from: heffo on August 09, 2016, 08:19:27 AM

Quote from: J70 on August 09, 2016, 12:49:56 AM
Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Two great players who I won't be sorry to see the back of (for the right reasons)

McFadden was a very special player. If his powerful shot in the 2011 semi final had been an inch lower rather than smashing off the crossbar history might have been very different.

Hard to believe there hasnt been more said about him. Fantastic classy player who was the lone shining star for Donegal for a long time, glad he got his just rewards the past few year with Ulsters and AIs.

Quote from: INDIANA on August 10, 2016, 07:52:27 PM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 09, 2016, 02:12:49 PM
Michael Murphy should take a long break, sit out the league next year, and get himself right.
I'd hate to see him have to retire before he's even 30.

Not playing like a brat in every game would be nice too. He leaves his calling card everywhere these days except on the scoreboard

You're an awful spite filled ****.

Quote from: trileacman on August 10, 2016, 10:35:35 PM

Quote from: INDIANA on August 10, 2016, 07:52:27 PM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 09, 2016, 02:12:49 PM
Michael Murphy should take a long break, sit out the league next year, and get himself right.
I'd hate to see him have to retire before he's even 30.

Not playing like a brat in every game would be nice too. He leaves his calling card everywhere these days except on the scoreboard

You're an awful spite filled ****.

its the truth he gets booked in every game he plays and he gets away with it due to reputation.

Quote from: Fuzzman on August 09, 2016, 02:09:03 PM
Does Donegal fans expect there to be any more retirements or will they wait til the new year.
I'd expect Lacey(31) and Thompson(30) to go. McGlynn is 30 too I see but he'll probably stay on will he?
They've put a lot of effort in the last 5 or 6 years.
I can see the two McMahons retiring but not sure about Sean Cavanagh.

Lacey a shadow of the player he was but 31 is young. Prime really unless injuries have taken a heavy toll and it looks like they have. Great player. Thompson and McGLynn are still in good order. Gallagher was a huge player and his absence this year was missed. Kavanagh has retired once already and Toye has probably squeezed the most out of it as well.

Murphy could do with some heavy lifters to replace Gallagher and Kavanagh in the middle third. He's been trying to do so many roles for so long now. He actually looked weary games I saw him this year.

Quote from: INDIANA on August 10, 2016, 11:12:15 PM

Quote from: trileacman on August 10, 2016, 10:35:35 PM

Quote from: INDIANA on August 10, 2016, 07:52:27 PM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 09, 2016, 02:12:49 PM
Michael Murphy should take a long break, sit out the league next year, and get himself right.
I'd hate to see him have to retire before he's even 30.

Not playing like a brat in every game would be nice too. He leaves his calling card everywhere these days except on the scoreboard

You're an awful spite filled ****.

its the truth he gets booked in every game he plays and he gets away with it due to reputation.

+++++1

It's the truth but Donaghy and to a lesser extent cillian o'Connor are the same. Murphy and Donaghy are a bit more cynical and could do some damage as they have done this year with digs. O'Connor just fouls repeatedly.

You seem very positive today aontroim abu.

Quote from: trileacman on August 10, 2016, 10:35:35 PM

Quote from: INDIANA on August 10, 2016, 07:52:27 PM

Quote from: Jinxy on August 09, 2016, 02:12:49 PM
Michael Murphy should take a long break, sit out the league next year, and get himself right.
I'd hate to see him have to retire before he's even 30.

Not playing like a brat in every game would be nice too. He leaves his calling card everywhere these days except on the scoreboard

You're an awful spite filled ****.

Murphy was top scorer on the day, he's a class act despite his  punching prowess.

Quote from: omaghjoe on August 10, 2016, 09:04:10 PM

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 09, 2016, 08:59:45 AM

Quote from: heffo on August 09, 2016, 08:19:27 AM

Quote from: J70 on August 09, 2016, 12:49:56 AM
Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Two great players who I won't be sorry to see the back of (for the right reasons)

McFadden was a very special player. If his powerful shot in the 2011 semi final had been an inch lower rather than smashing off the crossbar history might have been very different.

Hard to believe there hasnt been more said about him. Fantastic classy player who was the lone shining star for Donegal for a long time, glad he got his just rewards the past few year with Ulsters and AIs.

His 2012 performances are among the best I've ever seen from any forward ever. Most other years he would have been a shoo-in for POTY. It is a testament to Lacey's astonishing ability and performances that year that McFadden didn't win it.

2011 and 2015 in addition, however, he otherwise blue hot and cold. Unplayable some days, and either not arsed or just off form shooting wise on others.

Quote from: J70 on August 12, 2016, 04:03:00 AM

Quote from: omaghjoe on August 10, 2016, 09:04:10 PM

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 09, 2016, 08:59:45 AM

Quote from: heffo on August 09, 2016, 08:19:27 AM

Quote from: J70 on August 09, 2016, 12:49:56 AM
Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Two great players who I won't be sorry to see the back of (for the right reasons)

McFadden was a very special player. If his powerful shot in the 2011 semi final had been an inch lower rather than smashing off the crossbar history might have been very different.

Hard to believe there hasnt been more said about him. Fantastic classy player who was the lone shining star for Donegal for a long time, glad he got his just rewards the past few year with Ulsters and AIs.

His 2012 performances are among the best I've ever seen from any forward ever. Most other years he would have been a shoo-in for POTY. It is a testament to Lacey's astonishing ability and performances that year that McFadden didn't win it.

2011 and 2015 in addition, however, he otherwise blue hot and cold. Unplayable some days, and either not arsed or just off form shooting wise on others.

The hoor was always hot agin us any road

Quote from: J70 on August 12, 2016, 04:03:00 AM

Quote from: omaghjoe on August 10, 2016, 09:04:10 PM

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 09, 2016, 08:59:45 AM

Quote from: heffo on August 09, 2016, 08:19:27 AM

Quote from: J70 on August 09, 2016, 12:49:56 AM
Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Two great players who I won't be sorry to see the back of (for the right reasons)

McFadden was a very special player. If his powerful shot in the 2011 semi final had been an inch lower rather than smashing off the crossbar history might have been very different.

Hard to believe there hasnt been more said about him. Fantastic classy player who was the lone shining star for Donegal for a long time, glad he got his just rewards the past few year with Ulsters and AIs.

His 2012 performances are among the best I've ever seen from any forward ever. Most other years he would have been a shoo-in for POTY. It is a testament to Lacey's astonishing ability and performances that year that McFadden didn't win it.

2011 and 2015 in addition, however, he otherwise blue hot and cold. Unplayable some days, and either not arsed or just off form shooting wise on others.

I love the quote from the Follower > "they will be remembered by their people"

Quote from: Fuzzman on August 11, 2016, 04:40:50 PM
You seem very positive today aontroim abu.

I try to be positive every day Fuzz

Quote from: J70 on August 12, 2016, 04:03:00 AM

Quote from: omaghjoe on August 10, 2016, 09:04:10 PM

Quote from: The Hill is Blue on August 09, 2016, 08:59:45 AM

Quote from: heffo on August 09, 2016, 08:19:27 AM

Quote from: J70 on August 09, 2016, 12:49:56 AM
Eamon McGee following Colm McFadden in announcing retirement. Can't imagine he'll be last of them.

12 years (minus one or two drinking exiles  ;D) for McGee, 14 for McFadden.

They'll be hard to replace.

Two great players who I won't be sorry to see the back of (for the right reasons)

McFadden was a very special player. If his powerful shot in the 2011 semi final had been an inch lower rather than smashing off the crossbar history might have been very different.

Hard to believe there hasnt been more said about him. Fantastic classy player who was the lone shining star for Donegal for a long time, glad he got his just rewards the past few year with Ulsters and AIs.

His 2012 performances are among the best I've ever seen from any forward ever. Most other years he would have been a shoo-in for POTY. It is a testament to Lacey's astonishing ability and performances that year that McFadden didn't win it.

2011 and 2015 in addition, however, he otherwise blue hot and cold. Unplayable some days, and either not arsed or just off form shooting wise on others.

What Lacey did that year was very good, but what McFadden did was more difficult and more important in my view. I certainly would have voted for McFadden as player of the year