Declan McDermott content as Donegal minors open with super win over Monaghan

Donegal manager Declan McDermott was a happy man after his team’s impressive 4-10 to 0-6 win over Monaghan in the opening round of the Ulster Ladies Minor Championship Tier One, clash in Ballybofey.

The winners had fine contributions from the likes of Eva Gallagher, 1-4; Mia Bennett 1-2 and Ava Walsh 1-1 and Katie Dowds as the hosts eased to a fine opening victory at MacCumhaill Park. 

“It is great to get the win the first day out,” said the Donegal boss afterwards. 

“The girls have put in a big effort since we got together last November and the win was thoroughly deserved for the effort they put in”. 

The Moville clubman, who is in his second season wearing the manager’s bib, felt his side was nervous early on but once they worked a few things out they settled into the game. 

“Monaghan pushed up on us from the off and we were under pressure to get our kickouts away. 

“But once Kerry McCready started to go long with the kick outs we started to win possession and hit them on the break and we scored the goals.

“We got four today which was pleasing because in recent challenge games we had opened teams up and created chances but didn’t take them. 

“There is still work to do but for a first day out we are very happy with the performance.

Donegal led by nine points at half-time 3-6 to 0-3 so the second-half was a bout composure, discipline and just seeing the job out.  

“Sometimes it is more difficult to deal with a big half-time lead than being behind. Today we told the girls to keep doing what they were doing in the first half. 

“We moved the ball well in the second half and that was the main thing and, overall, it was a good performance considering it was our first day out.

“We have two points on the board and we move on now and it is back to training on Monday night.” 

Donegal face Cavan in Kingspan Breffni Park, the weekend after next.