Moville appeal was never any kind of distraction for Na Rossa insists Melly

Moville’s Junior A final appeal against Na Rossa for allegedly having 16 players on the field for a period in the second-half cast somewhat of a shadow over Declan Bonner’s side’s 0-15 to 0-10 win. 

The Inishowen club decided to made the objection after viewing an official video of the game. 

But it did not prove to be any kind of a distraction according to Na Rossa captain Daniel Martin Melly ahead of their early anticipated Ulster JFC opener with Fermanagh champions Lisnaskea in O’Donnell Park this Saturday.  

Moville’s gripe centred on Rule 6.44 of An Treoraí Oigigúil and the penalties for a 16th man breach include either awarding the game to the opposing team, a replay or a fine for the offending team. 

But the objection was subsequently turned down by the Donegal CCC earlier in the week - not that it made the slightest difference to Melly or his teammates.  

Speaking at the official Ulster Club Championships press launch at the Athletic Grounds, Armagh on Monday, Melly said: “We have trained and prepared as we would for any other game. 

“Whatever Moville wanted to do, we couldn’t control. What was going on in the background was nothing at all to do with us. 

“We were completely focused in on Lisnaskea as we would for any upcoming game. And that’s the way it’s been since the county final really. Nothing has changed”. 

On a brighter note Melly said Na Rossa had celebrated their victory over Moville in real style and for a few days. 

“It was great and it’s not just about the players, it’s about the whole community, young and old.” 

Melly has been at the heart of this team for almost 20 years after making his debut at just 15-years-old. 

“I remember my first game back in 2005 when I came on as a sub against Bundoran, it was a Good Friday. I started the next game against Buncrana and I have been on the team ever since. as I was never away anywhere.

“I have only missed two championship games in those 20 years and have thankfully been injury-free for the most part. So I’ve experienced a fair few ups and downs in between. That’s what’s made this season feel so special really”.