Ryan McHugh welcomes new rules but stresses need for greater fitness in the game

Donegal’s Ryan McHugh has welcomed the new rule changes in Gaelic football but admitted that the increased running demands will require players to be in peak physical condition.

Speaking after his side’s 0-18 to 0-15 victory over Dublin, McHugh highlighted the need for squads to adapt quickly to the evolving game.

“It is different, as Jim touched on it, there’s a lot more running so you’re going to have to get the body a lot fitter,” said McHugh. “We thought we were fit a couple of years ago but now we’re going to have to get the body a lot fitter.”

McHugh, who played a key role in Donegal’s strong win, acknowledged that while the new rules make for a more open and expansive game, they also pose new challenges for players and management alike.

“It is enjoyable, it does open the game out a lot more. I suppose there are challenges for the management to come up with different ideas but as a player, we have to get the body into a lot better shape with the new rules.”

Donegal’s victory was built on a dominant first half, where they controlled possession but failed to fully capitalise on their opportunities.

They racked up eight wides before the break, allowing Dublin to stay in touch despite being outplayed for long stretches. Daire O Baoill was the standout performer, scoring six points, including two two-pointers, under the new scoring system.

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Jim McGuinness’s side had to withstand a strong Dublin response early in the second half, as the visitors reeled off three points in quick succession. A two-pointer from Ciaran Kilkenny reduced the deficit to one, but Donegal held firm, with key defensive interventions from Brendan McCole and crucial scores from Patrick McBrearty and Oisin Gallen securing the win.

McHugh noted that with the increased pace of the game, squad depth will become even more important.

“Jim touched on it, there were a couple of injuries out there tonight, so squads are going to be massive going down the road.”

Despite the added demands, McHugh believes the changes have generated excitement across the GAA, with teams and supporters eager to see how they will shape the game going forward.

“I think in the whole GAA there’s an excitement, to be fair. There are enhancements that I like and then there are some I don’t like but I think overall, it’s hard when you’re playing, but I think it was a good game tonight.

"There were a lot of good scores and a lot of good opportunities but I think the GAA will be happy where it's going.”