This Donegal All-County League game shows why club calendar has to change

An All-County League fixture yesterday in Donegal will surely be held up as an exhibit for why change is needed in the club calendar. 

There was nothing on the line for Red Hughs or Gaeil Fhánada when their swords were scheduled to cross at Monellan yesterday afternoon.

The Gaeil Fhánada reserve team included the senior manager Aidan McAteer, the Reserve manager James Martin and even the club chairman Michael Friel – who netted the Gaeil Fhánada goal in a 1-8 to 2-13 defeat.

There were just 11 players for the Gaeil Fhánada warm-up for the senior game, with four reserves having to start the senior game, while Red Hughs had 12 players in their warm-up.

“It really puts into perspective how ridiculous it is to be still playing league games this late in the season,” a post on the Gaeil Fhánada Facebook page read.

“Our last three games are proof if it was ever needed that leagues need to be wrapped up before championship.

“Red Hughs were not near full strength either, but with weddings, work, soccer and people having pre planned commitments, Fanad were absent 14 of their senior panel.

“This leaves it incredibly difficult to not only field two teams but also keep our players motivated at this time of year.”

Bernard Martin, Seamus Coyle and Patsy Friel played the full games for both the reserve and senior Gaeil Fhánada teams.

Red Hughs won the senior fixture 0-12 to 1-8.

Red Hughs still have a game to play, against St Naul’s, who could win Division 3 if they defeat Joe Carlin’s men. A win for St Naul’s would take them above Naomh Muire, who have completed their programme of games.

Gaeil Fhánada midfielder Michael Sweeney summed up yesterday’s fixture when he tweeted: “A dead rubber game that neither team wanted to play yet could have had a bearing on other sides in the league. Less said the better.

“League needs to be squared up before championship starts. Simple as.”