Johnny McDonnell was optimistic following the DCU senior football team’s first victory of the year, pointing to the squad’s strength and depth as a real asset for the coming year.
McDonnell praised the maiden victory in which forward Alan O’Sullivan notched a hat-trick as DCU defeated Trinity College 5-1.
“It was good to get the victory overall, especially against the run of play since they got the first goal.” said McDonnell.
“We’ve a good squad and a good panel, there were plenty of lads on the bench that could’ve been brought on so we’re really looking forward to getting the most out of all of our players.”
McDonnell stressed the team ethic as vital to the structure he wants to bring to the DCU football culture, stating that: “It’s not about the individual it’s about the group and the team.”
“We have a few lads on the bench who could’ve came on the last day, so the squad will be key to our success this year.”
The first outing of the year was met with satisfaction by Johnny Mac as he welcomed a winning mindset to the team.
Striker O’Sullivan and Jamie Lennon, the captain of last year’s victorious Harding Cup team, were the two who stood out in McDonnell’s eyes.
“To get five goals against the run of play shows great character from the boys and shows they’re buying into our system.” he said.
“I’ve only had three weeks involvement but they all seem like good lads and myself and Declan are looking forward to getting the most out of the players.
“I’m only getting to grips with it since I’ve only been in about three weeks, but Lenny looks like a good lad.
“O’Sullivan got three of our five goals – so he’s looked impressive too.”
McDonnell also expressed optimism regarding the new recruits to the DCU football team, following the fresher’s Harding Cup success of last year – and the disappointing senior’s semi-final departure – McDonnell’s message was about building.
The former defender’s experience will hope to prove talismanic for DCU football this year.
“We’ve a few good freshers coming through, so we’ll be hoping that they can build on their Harding Cup success with the seniors.” said McDonnell.
“We won the Harding Cup last year so our aim this year is to do the best we can, qualify for the league and take every game as it comes.”
John Morley
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