Mickey McCann content for Donegal to have competitive action

The painful memory of a narrow defeat to Down in last year’s decider at the Dub in Belfast will be a big spur for Donegal as they take on Ulster University in the Conor McGurk final at the same venue on Thursday at 8pm.

For Mickey McCann’s men seemed set for a famous victory when a lapse in concentration saw Down hit 1-2 in three minutes to snatch an unlikely victory.

It is something that Burt native McCann and his team will not forget as they face Down’s conquerors this year in a star studded UU side who are quite familiar with the Belfast venue.

“Yes, we have bitter- sweet memories from last year’s final when a lapse in concentration cost us dearly,” said McLaughlin. “We were cruising but lost concentration and are determined not to fall into that trap again on Thursday night.

“Down turned us over and we gave away a bad goal and were very disappointed not to win it and we want to make amends this year”.

McCann added that apart from a nice piece of silverware on offer the final is ideal preparation for their next home match in the NHL against Wicklow in Letterkenny on the weekend after next.

“We will definitely be taking the McGurk Cup seriously although we will not be chancing anyone that is carrying knocks. We are going to try and win it and hopefully we will learn from last year’s experience.

“It is coming at a good time for us and we will be putting out as strong as we can.

“And it is final a bit like the Dr McKenna Cup and especially for the young boys, it’s a day out for them up to Belfast and it could bond us closer together especially if we get a victory.

“It’s a good distraction from the League and in playing a game where you are not under as much pressure, and you can work at stuff and maybe get a look at a few new lads as well.

“We are looking forward to the game”.

The manager says he isn’t that well clued in on their student opposition but, he adds, there will be a loose feel to matters and that should provide for a very open game of hurling.

“We don’t know an awful lot about UU except that they have a few Antrim and Down seniors. Their counties are out this weekend which might impact on what team they will be fielding.

“But the word is that they are really up for it and would dearly love to take another county scalp especially after beating Down earlier on this year.

“I expect them to put in a huge effort and they know the venue and they would be as good as any of the teams in our League if they get everybody out.

“They certainly won’t lack motivation and they have never won it before, so we know we face a big test, but it is one we are looking forward to”.