Fermanagh 0-9 Donegal 0-15: Donegal eventually crack Fermanagh code

Donegal overcame a stern defensive effort from Fermanagh, 0-15 to 0-9, to set up a mouth-watering Ulster semi-final with Tyrone.

While the six-point winning margin would suggest a degree of comfort, that was far from the case. Rory Gallagher's charges set out their stall early, with the structured game plan which saw them hold their own in Allianz Football League Division 2 throughout the springtime.

Donegal beat the Erne County by 12 points in last year's Ulster final, but they were always going to find things more difficult in Fermanagh's back yard.

Space was at a premium at Brewster Park, and the game was played on the home side's own terms.

In the opening exchanges, it panned out that way. The Erne County threw 15 men inside their own 45' within seconds of throw-in, and frustrated the Division 2 champions. Indeed, it took them 18 minutes to find their first score of the game.

The returning Paddy McBrearty was among those clearly frustrated with the lack of space afforded, taking on low percentage shots against the breeze. Meanwhile, Fermanagh were economical in their forays up the field, as Ultan Kelm, Ryan Jones and Ciaran Corrigan scored points from play.

However, as the first half wore on, Declan Bonner's outfit began to find cracks in the Fermanagh defence. Paddy McGrath and Jason McGee were lively for Donegal, as McBrearty was on hand to convert frees.

Eventually they worked their way into a lead, going in with a 0-5 to 0-4 advantage at the break.

Enjoying a wind advantage after the break, Donegal looked to take full advantage, as Jamie Brennan hit a long-range score within seconds of the restart. Minutes later, Michael Murphy did likewise, with the elements clearly playing a part, given that such shots were dropping short before the break.

As Brennan and McBrearty kept the scoreboard ticking over for the favourites, they were struggling to shake off their hosts.

Impressive scores from Barry Mulrone and Conall Jones ensured they stayed in touch as the game turned for the home straight.

However, a 64th-minute effort from Michael Langan stretched Tír Chonaill's advantage to four, and there was a sense around Enniskillen that the fat lady was clearing her throat.

Eventually, the reigning champions' class began to tell, and a late Michael Murphy point was the cherry on top.

This result sets up an enthralling semi-final meeting with the Red Hands, while Fermanagh enter Monday morning's qualifier draw.

Sky Sports' live GAA coverage continues on Saturday, June 8 as Cork host Waterford in the Munster Hurling Championship.

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