Finn Harps -v- Monaghan United
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Finn Harps welcome Monaghan United to Ballybofey on Saturday night (kick-off 20:00) as the Donegal team begin life without Paul Hegarty in charge. James Gallagher steps into the breach, having been named interim manager and the former goalkeeper is delighted to face the challenge head on.
“I find it very flattering that the club would consider me to take the team, whether it's for a few weeks or longer,” said Gallagher. “I would not be one bit afraid of the task ahead as I get on well with the players and I feel I have been earning respect as a coach and not just as a player.” Having earned a point in Limerick last week, Gallagher is confident his players are able to compete at this level, however he is aware Monaghan are a better side than their ninth place reflects.
“The players showed in Limerick that they are capable of playing at this level and hopefully they can carry that on, on Saturday, against Monaghan.”
“Monaghan probably have a more experienced squad than ourselves and are a much better side than their position suggests. On their day they are capable of giving anybody a game.”
Conor Gethins is available for selection again having served a two match suspension. Goalkeeper Gavin Cullen was fit enough to be named a substitute last weekend and could return. Marc Mukendi remains a doubt, although he played some part in the game after coming off the bench in Limerick last Friday. Marc Brolly (ankle) is also a doubt. Johnny Havlin remains sidelined with a gashed leg.
Monaghan United have taken seven from nine and Mick Cooke will look at this game as an opportunity to close the gap on Mervue United and Athlone Town. The Mons have a full squad to pick from with no injuries or suspensions.
Extratime.ie Prediction: Tight game, and I am going with a 1-1 draw
“I find it very flattering that the club would consider me to take the team, whether it's for a few weeks or longer,” said Gallagher. “I would not be one bit afraid of the task ahead as I get on well with the players and I feel I have been earning respect as a coach and not just as a player.” Having earned a point in Limerick last week, Gallagher is confident his players are able to compete at this level, however he is aware Monaghan are a better side than their ninth place reflects.
“The players showed in Limerick that they are capable of playing at this level and hopefully they can carry that on, on Saturday, against Monaghan.”
“Monaghan probably have a more experienced squad than ourselves and are a much better side than their position suggests. On their day they are capable of giving anybody a game.”
Conor Gethins is available for selection again having served a two match suspension. Goalkeeper Gavin Cullen was fit enough to be named a substitute last weekend and could return. Marc Mukendi remains a doubt, although he played some part in the game after coming off the bench in Limerick last Friday. Marc Brolly (ankle) is also a doubt. Johnny Havlin remains sidelined with a gashed leg.
Monaghan United have taken seven from nine and Mick Cooke will look at this game as an opportunity to close the gap on Mervue United and Athlone Town. The Mons have a full squad to pick from with no injuries or suspensions.
Extratime.ie Prediction: Tight game, and I am going with a 1-1 draw
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