Douglas gear up for huge clash with great rivals Nemo Rangers

There was natural elation in the Douglas camp following their impressive 1-12 to 0-4 win over St Michael’s in the McCarthy Insurance Cork Premier Senior Football Championship clash at Shanbally.

It was noticeable that Michael’s were bamboozled in how Douglas set up and the manner in which they defended completely shut down the scoring threats.

This season, Douglas have looked to the experience of Paudie Kissane to steady the ship and with mentors Conor Buckley, Mark Woods, Mick Russell, and Sean Nash they were up for the challenge.

Selector Buckley was delighted with his team’s overall display. “It was a decent league campaign and that gave us something to build on coming into this clash and although it wasn’t a pretty game I thought our lads did very well at both ends of the pitch,” said Buckley.

Many pundits were predicting a tight encounter but that never came to fruition with Douglas dominating from start to finish.

“They didn’t kick very well in the first half and we seemed to drive on and with the lads doing their job with precision, I think our first half closed out the game for us.”

The Douglas coaching staff have put a lot of work in and that was evident in the manner they set up.

“I think since the season began we have been a very good defensive side and that’s a huge plus for any team as obviously you always go out to nullify your opposition.”

Bringing some new players into the squad for the new campaign has helped the Douglas squad, said Buckley.

“We introduced some young players that were playing Junior A last season and they have all acquitted themselves very well which is a great boost.”

LIFT

The introduction of Sean Coakley, the Douglas ace who kicked the only two-pointer and one white flag, gave the management and players a huge boost. “Sean has been injured for over a year and only came back training three weeks ago and you can see what we have been missing as he is a class act.

I think this season if we can stay injury-free, we have a decent squad."

The next game for Douglas is a clash with near neighbours Nemo Rangers where a win for either side would all but guarantee them qualification from the group.

“Playing Nemo at any level is always a test but it’s a case of getting ready and hope we produce our best football.”

Injuries at Douglas are a slow process and Buckley believes they will have much of the same squad available for the Nemo game.

“All our injuries are long term but, look, all clubs are in the same boat so it’s a case of getting on with it.”

The only real worry for Douglas was the injury picked up by Sean Powter.

“Sean popped his shoulder but knowing the commitment of him he will be fighting hard to be playing as soon as possible.”