Croker Countdown: Rory Gallagher has named the same side that defeated Cork last weekend at Croke Park, ahead of today’s battle with Dublin.
Dublin, reigning All-Ireland champions are hot favourites to advance past Donegal as they bid to win back-to-back All-Ireland crowns.
However, in 2014, Donegal were 10-1 outsiders – but they ambushed Dublin in one of the counties greatest ever victories.
Fast forward two years, and again Donegal are unfancied, but many supporters feel Rory Gallagher’s side have the quality, class and experience to get one over on the Dubs again.
Gallagher is backing the side that started against the Rebels last weekend to get the job done.
Mark Anthony McGinley who has impressed in the absence of Paul Durcan keeps his place, then Paddy McGrath, Neil McGee and Eamon McGee make up the full-back line.
Ryan McHugh, Karl Lacey and Frank McGlynn are the half-backs, while Odhran MacNiallais and Rory Kavanagh start at midfield.
In the half-forward line, Anthony Thompson, Martin McElhinney and Eoin McHugh have been named in the half-forward line.
While Patrick McBrearty, Michael Murphy and Marty O’Reilly line out at full forward.
Many hope Murphy will be kept on the edge of the square, but it’s unlikely, and it’s expected he’ll come out around the middle, along with Martin McElhinney.
While Anthony Thompson will retreat into a deeper role in Donegal’s defence with Ryan McHugh pushing up.
Tactically Donegal will have to get a lot right against Dublin, who are an exceptional side, but you only need to beat them once, and nothing is impossible.
#tirchonaillabú
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