Five things we learned from Donegal’s win over Monaghan

5. Full performance is needed in the semi-final

There are plenty of positives to take from the win at Croke Park, but Donegal haven’t yet put together a full championship performance at Headquarters since McGuinness’ return.

A three-point lead against Louth in last year’s quarter-final had them in a good position before they eventually saw off the Leinster runners-up.

But their performance against a Galway side that failed to impress in the All-Ireland final is one that has been in the back of the minds of the team for nearly 12 months now.

The side will know that they cannot have another dip like their final ten minutes of the first half against Monaghan and while purple patches will happen for Meath, it’s important to put out that flame as soon as possible.

An All-Ireland final spot is up for grabs, and Donegal will go into the game as clear favourites, but a 70-plus minute performance against the Royals, who have beaten Dublin, Kerry and Galway this year, will be pivotal to reaching only their fourth All-Ireland final.