Relief for McGinley in senior final

BY RYAN FERRY

RELIEF was the main emotion for Glenfin wing-forward when the full-time whistle blew on Saturday.

Glenfin arrived in Letterkenny determined that they weren’t going to leave empty-handed.

The weather ensured that it wasn’t a classic match but McGinley felt her team were primed and ready.

“I’m just thankful that it’s over.

“Conditions did play a part in it but I think we held it well together at the end.

“The boys (management team) have had a great set-up for us all year and they have given us a lot of confidence.”

Glenfin had to look on as Termon strolled to the Donegal title last season but they were determined that they were going to make the 2025 season count.

“We didn’t make the semi-finals last year but we had a different mindset this season.

“The attitude was different as well.

“We just turned a page and left it behind us.

“We aimed for championship this year so we’re just going to push on for Ulster now hopefully.”

Glenfin didn’t score as much as they would have liked in the opening half when they had the breeze but Yvonne Bonner’s 23rd minute goal put some daylight between the teams.

“The first goal was big for us as it helped to ease us into the game and then Yvonne got the second goal.

“We just tried to focus and make sure we kept scoring.

“We didn’t have the wind in the second half so it wasn’t easy to score but we got a few.

“The girls all played well and it was a big team performance from everyone.”

Termon have some quality forwards in the likes of Ciara McGarvey and Jodie McFadden but a super defensive effort kept them at bay.

“They do have their key players but we just backed ourselves and everyone did the job.”

Glenfin didn’t have the services of team captain Bonner last year but she led the charge this season both on the field and off it.

“She has the two feet on her and can turn anyone inside out.

“She’s a key player and she keeps everyone going on the pitch as well.

“She’s very motivational to all the young girls and that’s important.

“We’re very happy to have her.”

The target for Glenfin was to win the Donegal title but they’ll be keen to get a run in Ulster now.

Termon defeated the Tyrone champions (St Maccartan’s) last season and Glenfin will hope to do likewise against Errigal Ciaran.

“We know enough about them and hopefully the boys do too.

“We will just be taking it one game at a time and see how it goes.

“I think it will be a home game and the supporters will be a big help like they were today.”

McGinley’s commitment to the cause can’t be questioned as she has been flying back and forth from Liverpool for the white and red jersey.

“I’m over in Liverpool doing my PGCE to try and become a primary school teacher.

“I only started it three or four weeks ago. I’m flying home every Friday to Sunday.

“The club is helping me. I don’t think I’d be able to make it home as much without their support.

“It’s great to get home to make the Friday night training and see all the girls.

“I’ll keep doing it and hopefully the team will keep pushing on forward.”