McShea’s Say: The jury remains out on SFC format 

There are games and occasions that fire the imagination of football lovers. I loved the sudden death championship format that had a fascination all on its own. 

There was no second chance and for sixty spine-chilling minutes, everything was on the line. In those games, huge crowds invariably look down on beautiful, manicured playing surfaces, and if it was raining the umbrellas were hoisted. 

Most of all, there was the unique and traditional rivalry between neighbouring clubs that created an explosive atmosphere. In that format, losing was never an option. 

Some years ago, the championship in Donegal was home and away games in the first round, with a play-off at a neutral venue if teams were level after the first two rounds of games. 

This was an excellent system, which I believe contributed in a big way to the raising of standards in the county. Big crowds were the order of the day, matches were played sometimes on a Wednesday or Friday night and it was no coincidence that the fortunes of our county side improved out of all recognition because the quality of club football was of such a very high standard. 

Suddenly Donegal became a real factor at inter-county level. It was clear to see Donegal players grow in stature and in confidence, a new Donegal team had been built from the ground up until it reached a pyramid of achievement, bringing Sam home for the very first time back in 1992.

This year’s format sees teams play four games, two home and two away and their results then filed into a 16-team league. The top four sides will go through to the quarter-finals while the bottom four will be destined for the relegation play-offs. 

Then there will be a preliminary quarter-final round. And, after that, it’s an open draw for the last eight. It's enough to make your head dizzy. 

This is a far cry from traditional championship football, with far too many games and many of those with little or no consequence. 

Starting the club championship in the third week of August is also far from ideal, and the long-winded arrangement, which is about to begin, will see many young players due to return to college which will simply heap more pressure on those young lads. 

While the hope is that a competitive and entertaining championship is about to unfold, that seems like an optimistic desire and even at this stage there seems to be a less than enthusiastic welcome among GAA followers for championship.

Donegal boss 

There is much ongoing speculation regarding the appointment of Donegal’s new footballing manager, a position that is taking up much more discussion than the forthcoming championship campaign. 

As usual, there are all sorts of rumours doing the rounds, most of it is pure speculation and off-the-wall stuff. 

The committee charged with making the appointment are correctly keeping their powder dry, as is their right. But as we mentioned last week, it seems like every follower in the county wants to see Jim McGuinness once again pick up the baton. 

Jim is the people’s choice, which is very understandable after the wonderful job he did in leading his team up the steps of Croke Park in 2012 for only the second time in our county’s history. 

It seems unlikely at this stage that an appointment will be made before the commencement of the club championship this weekend. But getting this right is one of the most important tasks in the proud history of Donegal football. 

In 2012, Jim proved beyond all doubt that he was adept and resourceful when directing operations from the sideline, as his team played clear cut uncomplicated football. 

Speed in abundance, incredible stamina and extreme dedication were other remarkable ingredients in that All-Ireland winning side. McGuinness’ appointment at this time would be a significant and most welcome boost for every Donegal follower.

Sympathy

Last week Ballyshannon lost one of its most special ladies following the passing of Tess Cleary. Tess was simply a very special person who adored her family and her home. 

Her life revolved around her family and her very special circle of wonderful friends. She was blessed with a very warm personality. She wasn’t envious of anybody, she never wanted anything she didn’t have. 

She was very content with her world. Tess was a wonderful neighbour and in her profession as a nurse, she enjoyed nothing more than “coming to the rescue” of a neighbouring child who may have felt unwell. 

It never mattered what hour of the day or night it was, Tess never failed to answer that call. Her funeral, which was one of the biggest seen in Ballyshannon for many years, was a clear reflection of the respect and esteem that all those who were lucky enough to have known Tess had for her. 

Predeceased by her husband Tommy, I offer my sincere sympathies to the family of a very kind, and beautiful lady.