Monaghan edge Tyrone to reach Dr McKenna Cup final
Monaghan booked their place in the Dr McKenna Cup decider on Saturday after a hard-fought derby victory over Tyrone in Inniskeen. The Cats and the Reds produced a keenly contested clash that swung on the pace of Monaghan’s first-half performance and a late rally by Tyrone, leaving the final in sight for the Border counties.
In a game characterized by tight exchanges and physical leadership, Monaghan surged ahead in the opening period with a dominant 1-10 display as they faced into the elements. The opening onslaught set the tone, and while Tyrone answered with periods of pressure, Monaghan’s composed display in the forward line and disciplined defending kept their opponents at bay. The first-half goal, combined with a steady stream of points, provided the platform for Monaghan to head into halftime with momentum and confidence.
Trying to overturn the deficit in the second half, Tyrone showed resilience and found a way back through a well-timed goal, but Monaghan’s Tactical discipline and endurance allowed them to maintain a slender cushion. The final whistle confirmed a memorable victory and clinched a place in the Dr McKenna Cup final, where their supporters will be hoping for another high-tempo performance.
For Monaghan, the win was a testament to their preparation and team unity. The midfield engine room worked tirelessly, while the forward line converted chances under pressure. The result also fueled expectations ahead of the decider, with fans eager to see if Monaghan can convert Cup momentum into a showcase performance against their remaining rivals.
Coach and players acknowledged the derby atmosphere and the value of a victory that came from collective effort. The focus now shifts to preparing for Saturday’s decider, where Monaghan will be aiming to continue their strong form and claim silverware in the Dr McKenna Cup.
Donegal book their place in the final with convincing win
While Monaghan celebrated their derby success, Donegal secured their place in the final in equally emphatic fashion. They navigated a challenging route through the semi-final, delivering a composed performance that highlighted depth across the squad.
Donegal’s approach combined disciplined defense with an efficient attack, resulting in a performance that suggested they’re in prime form heading into the final. The match showcased the county’s ability to balance tempo with precision, creating scoring opportunities while maintaining defensive structure. The players will be buoyed by the progression and will be eager to translate form into success when the final whistle signals the culmination of a competitive Dr McKenna Cup campaign.
As both Monaghan and Donegal prepare for the decider, the broader narrative centers on the teams’ readiness for the competitive season ahead. The Dr McKenna Cup has offered a platform for widespread testing, squad depth, and tactical experimentation, and the upcoming final will serve as a marquee event to cap a campaign that has delivered drama, skill, and regional pride.
Fans can expect a deeply tactical final with a sharp focus on physical stamina and strategic execution. The road to the trophy has been rewarding, and both counties will be keen to lift the cup and set a positive tone for the rest of the season.
