DONEGAL begin the defence of their Nickey Rackard Cup on Saturday with a repeat of the 2020 final.
Donegal welcome Mayo to O’Donnell Park (throw-in 2.30pm) with Mickey McCann, the Donegal manager, aiming to maintain the upward trajectory.
Donegal came from eight points down to overcome Mayo in last year’s decider, but they were denied promotion
“I expect Mayo to come full steam and to try and get momentum,” McCann told Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub.
“We have the upper hand at the minute and we want to keep that. We’re under no illusions. On their day, Mayo can show why they were in Division 2A for a few seasons.”
Donegal are in a three-team group with Mayo and Leitrim with the top two counties going through to semi-finals.
Conor O’Grady is suspended this weekend following his sending off in the last League game against Derry while injuries rule Gerry Gilmore and Padraig Doherty out of contention.
McCann said: “We have strength in depth off the bench and that’s very important with the short season.”
Donegal stayed in Division 2B after an encouraging League campaign, where they won home games against Roscommon and Mayo.
McCann said: “The players are really competitive and don’t like getting beat. Any time we go down a few points, we’re fit to come back. The bit of experience is showing now and is paying off for us.”
Listen to the full interview below …