McDonnell: We will give it our best shot

After an exciting victory over Cork, Louth goalkeeper Niall McDonnell shared his thoughts on the game at Inniskeen and their progression to the All-Ireland quarter-final next week.

Reflecting on the Wee Countys performance, McDonnell acknowledged that they didn't play their best but emphasized the importance of securing the win.

“We probably didn’t play our best stuff today. Everyone could see that, but it is all about getting over the line in a game like this."

Looking ahead, the St. Fechin’s clubman expressed excitement for their next match against either Armagh or Donegal, hoping to improve their performance.

“Roll on next week now when we will play either Armagh or Donegal and hopefully pick things up and go again. We played a bit of the opposite than we have over the last few weeks.

“We have been punishing teams when we attacked, and we were probably a bit open last week. We went back to the drawing board and tightened up."

McDonnell also addressed a first-half mix-up that led to a goal but praised the team's ability to regroup and perform better in the second half.

“The goal in the first half was a bit of a mix-up between a couple of bodies but we re-grouped. We went in at half time and when we came out, I think we were a better team in the second half."

On his match-winning save, McDonnell humbly acknowledged his role and the support from his teammates, particularly highlighting captain Sam Mulroy's important contributions.

“I just like to play my part in the team. I didn’t cover myself in glory in the first half with the goal, so you are trying to make up for that. The lads dug it out of the bag. Sam Mulroy with a last-minute free kick and all the pressure on he sticks it over.

“Then from then he comes down and turns it over in the corner down here, so it just shows what a great leader he is. We are not finished yet and roll on into next week."

McDonnell also praised the incredible support from the fans, noting the atmosphere at the game and the encouragement they received even when trailing.

“Look around at the red and white the game was sold out in a couple of hours. We arrived here at 1.45pm today and the place was full, all you could see was red jerseys and the roar.

“Even the roar last week too and we were losing by five points to Kerry running in at half time everyone was up on their feet clapping. It is great!”

As they prepared for their next opponent, McDonnell spoke of the team's determination and collective spirit, eager to face either Armagh or Donegal with confidence and effort.

“We are all in it together and hopefully we get a good turnout next week and get over the line again against either Armagh or Donegal.

“We have played both sides already. We probably should have done Armagh down there. We missed a few opportunities, but it is the quarter-final of an All-Ireland.

“Where else would you rather be at this time of the year all the hard work in November and December leads to this. We will give it our best shot and see where it brings us.”