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Donegal GAA thread

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Pattons kickouts are up there with the best in the country, also has become very good under the high ball and I would expect him to be first choice when he returns from injury but it terms of free kicks Mulreany is head and shoulders ahead, I'm very surprised this is even being argued

greatkick (Donegal) - Posts: 15 - 25/02/2026 15:36:57    2658594

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Replying To greatkick:  "Pattons kickouts are up there with the best in the country, also has become very good under the high ball and I would expect him to be first choice when he returns from injury but it terms of free kicks Mulreany is head and shoulders ahead, I'm very surprised this is even being argued"
Patton is still the number one because of his kickout accuracy but Mulreany's accuracy hitting 2 point frees is a huge plus. You can sometimes end up with maybe 5 kickable 2 point frees in a match so if you have an accurate long distance kicker it's a massive weapon. Murphy might not start every game this year so we need a two point free taker on the field.

All in all I agree Patton still gets the nod but it's a close call

High_and_wide (Donegal) - Posts: 104 - 25/02/2026 20:36:16    2658649

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On the goalkeeping sitaution, I suppose there is a lot to be said for rhythm and match practice too.
Mulreanny has been getting a steady run of games which has undoutedly boosted his confidence.
As good a keeper as Patton is, would be it somewhat of a risk if he is simply thrown back into action come Championship, after such a long layoff?

I suppose the ideal situation would be if Patton could get a competitive game or two under his belt before then. Maybe the Roscommon and Monaghan games, with Mulreanny playing the league final (if we get there)?

Then in the four weeks break before the Down match, let each man put his best foot forward in training and in-house games. We are very lucky to have two such competent goalkeepers.

Lockjaw (Donegal) - Posts: 10247 - 26/02/2026 11:31:43    2658703

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