JIM McGUINNESS was all smiles to the Gallen as Ulster champions Donegal motored on towards the All-Ireland quarter-finals. Oisín Gallen struck seven points as the Tír Chonaill men downed Tyrone for the second time in a month. Last time the contest was tight and Donegal needed extra-time to eke out an 0-18 to 0-16 victory.
Tyrone chief Brian Dooher — with his Red Hands joint-manager Feargal Logan in the stands after revealing this week that he had suffered a stroke last February — would have been confident that if their side could stay in touch, they could test their kick in the final straight. Donegal’s third quarter meant that was not an issue. A high-scoring first half left just a point between the sides at the break but Donegal out-shot their opponents 0-11 to 0-5 in the second half.
There was a pitch invasion in Ballybofey at the end but the supporters’ heroes headed straight for the dressing rooms. However, their manager was happy to address the fans. McGuinness said: “It means so much to put in that performance for our supporters.
“They’ve been with us through thick and thin. From the very first game against Derry the support’s been huge. “So you’re coming today as Ulster champions and you don’t want to let them down.
“I’m delighted they were able to express themselves tonight and really go for it and play with that confidence that you get from winning a provincial title. “We’re delighted — it’s only one game in a group but it sets .
