Paddy McKeever (Ex-Armagh forward)
ONE of the most dangerous aspects for Donegal is that all and sundry have written off Tyrone’s chances of victory in Ballybofey.
This can be used as a powerful motivating factor and despite the Jekyll and Hyde nature of their League form, Tyrone have shown glimpses of what they can do in their performances against the frontrunners for ‘Sam’. But Rory Gallagher was astute enough to realise that his players with significant mileage needed wrapped in cotton wool so with a rejuvenated Karl Lacey and an available Neil Gallagher, Donegal will be a force again this year.
Paddy Bradley (Ex-Derry forward)
RORY Gallagher has picked up were Jim McGuinness left off. The players are familiar with him so their style hasn't changed. Tyrone will be defensively sound but Donegal’s experience, quality and patience will see them over the line.
John Haran (Ex-Donegal forward)
I THINK Donegal will win simply because of experience and their recent record against Tyrone. Donegal can always handle Sean Cavanagh too and that is a big help. Rory Kavanagh and Leo McLoone are still big losses from last year but Donegal should still be too strong all over.
Benny Coulter (Ex-Down forward)
DONEGAL should win this because they have the better forwards and more experience. If Donegal stop Sean Cavanagh, that's half the battle given Niall Morgan is missing. I think Colm McFadden needs to hit the ground running this year for Donegal as he is vital to them if they want to go one better than last year. Donegal by four.
Marty McGrath (Ex-Fermanagh midfielder)
IT’S all on the day but home advantage and a wet day will sway it for Donegal. Donegal will be targeting the All-Ireland and with the physical nature of the Ulster Championship, the back door may actually be the best route. It's Donegal for me on Sunday but they will not be overly concerned if they have to take the scenic route.
Anthony McGrath (Member of the Donegal minor backroom team)
ONLY a fool would write off Tyrone. The reality is that very few people know what they will bring in terms of set up. For me it will boil down to the influence of both number 14s on the day. Sean Cavanagh and Michael Murphy will both be central to their team’s respective game plans. An attacking running game could trouble Donegal but Gallagher’s side should prevail by four or five.
Shane Mulholland (Down minor manager and ex-Down forward)
I THINK there will be one score in it – in favour of Donegal. They have the Michael Murphy factor. No one will be able to handle him.
Anto Finnegan (Ex-Antrim defender)
I’LL go for Tyrone by two in a low scoring game. They will need a very strong defensive display but in a game of tactics, Mickey Harte could have the upper hand.
