Happy with Armagh win but Donegal need to iron out some creases - Richie Ryan 

Richie Ryan says Donegal need to reset and recalibrate in front of the posts after they clocked up 17 wides in their NHL Division 3 win over Armagh on Saturday. 

Mickey McCann’s side might still have comfortably seen off the Orchard County 1-18 to 1-9 at O’Donnell Park but there was still an air of frustration circling shortly after the final whistle. 

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“We got the win and that is the main thing today,” said the Dungloe clubman and Limerick native. 

“We had a lot of wides but to get away with 17 of those and still win the match is a good thing. 

“In a way, maybe it’s a good thing as well going back into training this week that we have something to really focus in on and address.  

“The positive is we got the shots off along with what we actually scored. We also created a number of great goal chances. Their goalkeeper was superb. So we’ll find the positives too”.

McCann still felt comfortable enough around the three-quarter hour mark to empty his bench. And Ryan says there is depth there now that’s as good, if not better, than it’s ever been.  

“It is great to have a strong bench and it means you’re watching over your shoulder all the time. That’s in the games and training. 

“There were a few young lads who have come in too and performed well like Donal Farrelly, Conor Diver and Jack Kealy. 

“They are as fast and as skilful as anybody and they are a great addition to the set-up”.

The centre half-forward impressed throughout and posted five fine points, all from play. He says he’s content enough and definitely is thriving in the scope operating in and around the middle of that same line gives him.

“It’s great to contribute on the scoreboard. But again, individually and collectively, I’m always looking to improve. The ball coming in was great and there were lots of little pockets of space. 

“We’re going in the right direction and that’s the main thing”. 

Donegal now switch attention to an away clash with Louth, who are on four points with a game extra played. 

McCann’s side currently share top spot with Roscommon. 

“It’s always hard when you have to travel away for a match and all we can do is prepare on Tuesday and Thursday as best we can.  

“Like I said, we have some things to work on so we have a big week ahead of us”.