by James McMahon
Donegal will look to create a bit of history as they seek back-to-back Ulster titles for the very first time.
Providing the opposition will be the county that was the last to beat them in provincial combat. Yet, Down have to go back to 1994 for their last Anglo Celt triumph. James McCartan’s side, however, won’t lack motivation at Clones as they take on a side, currently viewed by many pundits as second favourites to lift Sam Maguire on 23 September.
Three weeks ago, Donegal’s teamwork, particularly their defensive play, was enough for them to see past Tyrone. They may have only won by two points, and had to withstand a late Tyrone flourish, but there was no denying their victory.
Their ability to win possession in the middle third of the field and move forward at pace makes them a very formidable opponent.
The football purists will have taken note that their style of play is a bit more pleasing on the eye this year. Yet, Donegal are blessed with many talented players and overall have a physicality that means they will not yield easily. Ryan Bradley stood out the last day and he will hope to influence things again from midfield on Sunday.
Donegal have played three games in the championship so far. An improvement from match to match has been noticeable and it will be interesting to see what level they are at for the Mourne challenge.
Jim McGuinness makes one change to the side that saw off the Red Hand, with Leo McLoone coming in at centre-half forward for the injured Neil Gallagher.
Down’s resolve in coming back from a nine-point deficit against Monaghan should be applauded, but they need to be focused right from the off against the reigning champions.
Their midfield duo of Kalum King and Ambrose Rogers really stepped up to the mark when the chips were down a month ago, and the introduction of Benny Coulter and Liam Doyle gave them further options up front.
As an attacking force, Down are not short of talented score getters, and if they rediscover the form that got them to an All-Ireland final in 2010, then Sunday’s match will go down to the wire.
Down’s record in Ulster finals against Donegal stands up well. In 1991, they entered the Clones decider as outsiders against Brian McEniff’s highly fancied outfit. They won the game with something to spare and went on to claim Sam Maguire that September.
The underdog tag will suit them again in 2012, but McGuinness’ Donegal possess a tough veneer that should see them edge a close contest.
Verdict: Donegal
