Karl Lacey keen for Donegal minors to kick on after Armagh win in Convoy

Donegal minors go away to Derry at Owenbeg on Saturday and boss Karl Lacey hopes their recent win over Armagh means they’ve turned a corner. 

The county U-17s drew their first encounter away to Antrim and suffered a loss to Monaghan in Round 2. 

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However, they seen off the Orchard teenagers 4-16 to 3-8 in Convoy at the weekend and they’re looking to keep things headed in the right direction against the Oak Leafers. 

A league final spot is beyond them at this stage but finishing second in their section would help their championship seeding. 

“We’re happy,” said 2012 All-Ireland winner Lacey. “It was an improvement from last week. I’m delighted to get the competitive games. It was a lovely morning in Convoy. 

“The boys enjoyed it and getting the win was the most important thing. There was a lot of good stuff and there are other wee things we need to work on. 

“In fairness to them, they take on board what we’re asking of them and they got that reward today”. 

Lacey says it felt like his players cast the shackles against Armagh but while their scoring average spiked, they still coughed up three goals down the other side. And that’s something they’ll need to address at the weekend in Derry. 

“They are young, they can get nervous and these are big occasions for them. The early scores settled them well into the game. 

“We struggled to get goals so far but four landed today. We conceded three so every day is a learning day at this age. 

“We have been so close in the last couple of games so I felt this was coming. We still have plenty to work on. We have another game on Saturday. 

“MJ Ward picked up a knock today, but besides that, we’re in good enough standing. 

“We’re looking to get minutes into legs right now and build as big a squad as we can. Three games, we’ve had a good look already, and that will continue against Derry with more opportunities. 

“At this level, Derry are always strong. The school football means they always have their house in order. 

“But we’re looking forward to the challenge. Today was a monkey off the back, so hopefully there’ll be less pressure now heading to Ownebeg. 

“Then we’ll see where we’re at for championship”.