By Frank Craig, sports editor

Naomh Conaill’s Leo McLoone hopes that his side’s big game experience can see off the challenge of St Michael’s in this weekend’s U21 final.

With three Donegal senior players in their ranks, the Glenties side are chasing an unprecedented four in a row at this particular grade. As well as McLoone, both Eoin Waide and Dara Gallagher have been involved frequently for John Joe Doherty’s charges this term.

Though, the latter will have to once again settle for a place amongst the substitutes as he recovers from a fractured bone in his chest. In his absence most of the scoring responsibility will fall on the broad shoulders of Dermot Molloy.

Prior to Sunday’s victory over Four Masters, Leo had to contend with the small matter of sending elder brother Sean up the isle. Now free from the burden of ‘Best Man’ duties McLoone admits that the challenge presented by St Michael’s is a very serious one indeed following their impressive dismantling of Kilcar.

“It was a pretty hectic few days alright but everything worked out well in the end,” said McLoone. “It would have put a big dampener on the weekend if we had to lose. But thankfully we got the result we wanted.

“We had a wee scare at the start of the second half with the goal as we were starting to sit back. But we lifted it again when we had to. It’s probably a good thing as it gives us plenty to work on during the week.”

The competition has received its fair share of criticism for the way it has been shoved in to the fixtures’ calendar. But the chance to write their own little piece of history on Sunday means much more to a club that’s intent on staring 2010 off with a bang following the disappointment of last year.

“St Michael’s were very impressive from what I gather so we’re expecting a really tough game. Their work-rate and fitness were the two things that people were talking about when we got home

“Hopefully the extra week will give Dara the chance to play some part. He’s a big voice in the dressing room and having him there is a big help to those around him.

“It’s means so much to the boys. Even the minors coming in are mad to win it after winning their own championship. It would be a great way to start the year for the club and would give everyone a lift looking ahead to the new season.”