Round Three of Division I of the Allianz Football Leagues sees Donegal face Dublin in Ballybofey (throw-in 2pm). Ahead of the game, both Donegal's Patrick McBrearty and Dublin's Jonny Cooper discuss the potential match-ups between the sides and rivalry between the sides over the past few years as Donegal aim to repeat their feat of defeating the Dubs in league or Championship following on from their win in 2014 over the Dubs. Juveniles (Under 16 Years of Age) are FREE admission for the game, while adult tickets are €12.00 if purchased before matchday. Match-Day Prices are Adult €15.00, while concessions (Student/OAP) are €12.00 and available at the venue on matchday with valid I.D. Tickets are available for purchase in selected SuperValu and Centra stores nationwide; full details of which shops apply can be found at http://www.gaa.ie/tickets/where-to-buy/
Sunday February 26
Allianz Football League Division One
Donegal v Dublin, Ballybofey, 2pm
Since the 2011 All Ireland SFC Semi-Final every clash involving Donegal and Dublin is monitored with interest.
Last year the teams clashed on three occasions in the League and Championship: Dublin won them all, but two were keenly contested.
The All Ireland SFC Quarter-Final tussle needed a splendid late Paul Mannion goal to seal the deal, but a spirited second half Donegal display caused the standard bearers problems.
Donegal have been forced to absorb several retirements - with Neil Gallagher stepping out this week. Rory Gallagher is dealing with the transitional phase now, but there were encouraging signs in how Donegal carved out a victory against Roscommon.
Following the opening weekend loss against Kerry, that win in the west was valuable. Now Gallagher is relishing the chance to 'test' his Donegal youngsters against Jim Gavin's decorated outfit.
"We're playing the best side in the country," Gallagher admits. "They've won four All-Irelands in the last six years. There is a lot to be admired about Dublin. It's a chance to test ourselves against all that. It's exciting for the boys."
Gallagher is impressed with the manner in which Dublin continue to earn plaudits and silverware. “The consistency, the hunger and the resilience they've shown, not just the football, they are a special team," is Gallagher's verdict.
"They have a core group there. They have faced a lot of tough times. Years like 2005 through to 2010, that side and those players were labelled all sorts. They came out the other end of that and they are still there. We'd have huge respect for that.”
Dublin will afford Donegal respect, especially considering the talents of Michael Murphy, Ryan McHugh, and Paddy McBrearty, who are proven footballers at the highest level.
Dublin came thundering back to draw with Tyrone a fortnight ago with Dean Rock landing a late levelling point from a free.
With nine minutes remaining Dublin trailed by five, but they stayed cool and composed to avoid defeat.
The trip to Ballybofey should be a lively affair too when Dublin face a pumped up Donegal.
