Mogan wants to make Sunday memorable for Donegal supporters

It’s been a year to remember for the Donegal senior team, but Peadar Mogan is hoping they can finish it on a high for the fans who have followed them everywhere throughout the season.

From away games in Kerry, Galway and Mayo to three trips to Clones, further ventures to Roscommon and a pair of knockout matches in Croke Park, the county will be heading south one final time this Sunday.

It has been a costly year for many following the county, but the St Naul’s man is hoping to make it all worthwhile come Sunday evening.

“The Donegal support, as it has been all year, was excellent (against Meath) so it was nice to take a step back after the game and acknowledge them because it’s a very expensive trip to Dublin for a family.

“We’re grateful to give them another day out and hopefully these trips to Croke Park are memorable for kids and families.”

The wing-back was in that position watching on a decade ago, and it inspired him to get to where he wants to be.

The old expression of success breeds success rang true for him and he is looking to continue that progress.

“I remember walking into Croke Park and the first time I really remember was Kildare in 2011 and that was really amazing and even going to a Premier League ground when you walk up the steps and look out, it’s amazing so for some kids who probably went to Croke Park for the first time and to experience that is really good.

“When you go out and play for Donegal, you want to win and do your best for everyone, but you’re also trying to inspire the younger ones coming through.

“They need to see the effort you’re putting in on the pitch and that’s what it means to play for Donegal and this is the level you need to get to.

“It’s a cliché, but you’re trying to leave the jersey in a better place for the next person coming to take it off you.

“The wins and everything are brilliant, but there’s a bigger picture to it sometimes.

"I’m watching minor teams in 2014 and senior teams and seeing them track back and hassle and harry. The 2012 quarter-final against Kerry, some of the tackling it showed me what it means to them players to represent Donegal and that’s where you need to get to.”

The St Naul’s club will be well represented on Sunday against Kerry, with Mogan and Brendan McCole two of Donegal’s most important players, while Gavin Mulreany has played his part in the run to the final and will be ready to go if Shaun Patton is unable to play.

Stephen Griffin was the sole club member in the panel when Donegal last won the title in 2012, although this time the Mountcharles men are driving the county on from defence.

“We’ve played underage the whole way up and Brendan’s father (Donnie) would have coached us, so it’s lovely for the club and to represent them beside two good friends is unbelievable.

“Brendan has been amazing. We’d be fairly close, and how diligent and how much effort he puts into his game is brilliant.

“He goes under the radar sometimes, and it can be a thankless job. He is a vital cog to us, and we’re very thankful we have him because he’s absolutely brilliant.”