Tyrone preparing for a semi-final -come playoff with near neighbours Donegal

While Tyrone were getting set up for a second bite at the provincial cheery at Croke Park, the counties ladies were preparing for a semi-final -come playoff with near neighbours Donegal for a place in the July 31st final at Clones
Tyrone have of course the physiological advantage now over many people favourites for the title after John McAleers side saw of the Tir Connell girls in last Sundays final group game in a one side encounter at Irvinestown.
Tyrone of course had to win the tie to at least force this “play-off” a victory by 16 points or more would have eased them home to the final, but in the end just three points separated the teams 0-13 to 1-7 in favour of Tyrone who by far dominated the tussle.
They led 0-6 to 0-5 at the break, but completely took over the second period with Alish Gormley playing a real captains role, Lynette Hughes, the influential Connie Fox and Ann Dooher outstanding with Emear Teague so assured at full back. The fact that Donegal only scored 1-2 in the second halfs injury time and the goal was a penalty summed up what has been described as Tyrones best championship display in two years.
This young squad, the perfect blend of youth, experience and representation from the clubs improve with every game, they beat Down but despite controlling the tie with Monaghan were caught with a late goal to snatch away a final place, as Manager John McAleer said after that defeat “ We were a minute away from the final ….now we are at least 120 minutes away”
Yet they are playing good football and deserve one thing …….the support of the Tyrone supporters at the Ulster Final Replay, the players and county board appeal to the massive Tyrone following at Croke Park to come along to Irvinestown On Tuesday next the 26th July and give the O’Neill girls the boost they need, a boost to carry them through to the Ladies Ulster Final on July 31st.

Throw in time at Irvinestown is 7.30pm