AHEAD of today’s big match, Niall Gartland canvasses opinion on Twitter.
Anto Finnegan (ex-Antrim defender)
I can’t see past Donegal. Their intensity from the first to the last whistle is scary. If Donegal keep Bradley quiet it will be a long day for Derry.
Prediction: Donegal
Brendan Devenney (ex-Donegal forward).
Derry need their first half performance against Down for 70 minutes to stand any chance. They have two aces in attack in Lynch and Bradley but where else will scores come from? Derry are quite physically strong and can match Donegal in places. Fergal Doherty was brilliant against Down but wasn't fully fit and will have come on since then and will be taking on Gallagher and Murphy. Their only option for me is to play like the Dublin league game and try to release Bradley and Lynch - it might not be pretty but anything less will see them ship a heavy beating.
Prediction: Donegal
Aaron Cunningham (ex-Armagh forward)
I think Donegal will win quite comfortably. To defeat Donegal you need a quick and direct offensive system and I don’t think Derry have enough clinical forwards to trouble Donegal. Donegal’s experience and ability to score at will, will see them through.
Prediction: Donegal
Kevin McGuigan (Ex-Down defender)
There is the chance of an upset, but I don't see it happening. Derry allowed Down too many scoring chances which Down wasted. If Derry allow Donegal the same chances Donegal have proven repeatedly that they are the most clinical team in Ulster.
Prediction: Donegal
Anthony McGrath (ex-Queen’s University Belfast manager and currently involved with the Donegal minors)
As a Donegal man I’d be very wary of Derry. Against Down they had a good balance and solid structure and were able to mix up their attacks. Donegal will also rotate their forward line with McFadden back playing a withdrawn role which makes them less predictable. Donegal will win by grinding out a result based on patience and experience.
Prediction: Donegal
Conor Quigley (Former Fermanagh defender)
It has to be Donegal for me. They’re a seriously well-organised and disciplined team who have huge experience and know-how. Of course Derry have a small chance but their big players like Mark Lynch and Eoin Bradley will have be on top of their game and I just can't see Derry being strong enough.
Prediction: Donegal
Stefan Forker (Armagh forward)
I think Donegal will win on Sunday. They have a great system and great players who can execute it to perfection.
Prediction: Donegal
