Donegal manager Jim McGuinness paid tribute to the county's loyal fans at the team's homecoming following the All-Ireland SFC final.
Kerry ran out winners on the day at Croke Park on a 1-26 to 0-19 scoreline to lift Sam Maguire for the 39th time and leave Donegal heartbroken.
However, there were thousands in Donegal Town, despite the wretched weather, to welcome the team home.
“There will be brighter days, the rain will stop, the sun will shine and I know for a fact Donegal will be back here some day with the Sam Maguire cup," McGuinness said.
“I hope in my heart of hearts that that day is not long away and I hope everybody on this stage will be part of that moment. The rain didn’t dampen spirits one bit tonight and the flags, the jerseys and the singalongs were a sample of the passionate fans that have backed Donegal all year.
“It‘s amazing to be going into big games knowing you have everybody in Donegal behind you 100%. Even though we were unsuccessful yesterday, everybody is still here."
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