Bonner ‘positive’ as Donegal chase a little piece of history

When Donegal lifted a first All-Ireland SFC title in 1992, Declan Bonner’s point was the final act. The flame-haired corner-forward gave a celebratory fist-pump. Six years later, Bonner managed Donegal’s seniors as Joe Brolly’s injury-time goal saw Derry nick the Ulster championship.

Brolly didn’t fist-pump; preferring to blow kisses at the soaked Donegal supporters.

In 2012, Bonner, now shinier on top, took charge of a talented crop of Donegal U16s, winning the Buncrana Cup before McGuigan Cup success last year at U17. Three goals were laid out for 2014: Ulster Minor League, Ulster Championship and the All-Ireland.

After topping their group with four from four, Donegal overcame Armagh in the Ulster Minor League semi-final, and Tyrone, 1-15 to 2-7, in the final in April.

With wins over Derry and Antrim, Donegal lifted the Ulster championship following a 2-12 to 0-10 victory over Armagh.

At Markievicz Park on the August Bank Holiday Saturday, Donegal weathered two storms — thinking their way through an ultra-defensive Roscommon, who threw the kitchen sink in the Sligo rain late on, 0-10 to 1-5.

So, Bonner maintains a three-year unbeaten run as Donegal face into an All-Ireland semi-final against Dublin. “We’ve come through some almighty challenges,” he says.

Donegal went down in the 1935 All-Ireland MFC semi-final against Tipperary following an appeal, having lost the provincial final to Tyrone. The counter-appeal that followed means the Ulster of that year remains a null and void.

As provincial champions, Donegal lost All-Ireland semi-finals in 1956, 1985, 1991, 1996 and 2006 — with Michael Murphy, Leo McLoone, Declan Walsh and Martin McElhinney in the side beaten 2-13 to 1-10 by Kerry.

On Sunday, Donegal will be without Ulster final man of the match Eoghan Ban Gallagher, who has a torn hamstring.

Conor Doherty from Kilcar is a doubt with an ankle injury.

Centre-back Tony McClenaghan from Moville captains the side, while wing-back Cian Mulligan — one of six Gaoth Dobhair panellists — excelled against Roscommon, kicking 0-4 from play. Jamie Brennan of Bundoran, Lorcan Connor of Downings and Patrick McBrearty’s brother Stephen from Kilcar provide cutting edge.

“We’re going to Croke Park in a positive frame of mind,” Bonner adds. “We’ve prepared well and know it will take an almighty effort against Dublin. It’s a huge challenge but we’re ready for it.”