O’Donnell shares moment that made Murphy a legend
In the dying moments of Donegal’s dramatic game against Mayo, there was confusion and desperation not just from Mayo fans, but from Donegal’s side too. O’Donnell shares moment that made Murphy a legend, but before that could happen, there were chaotic scenes. Shaun Patton was about to take the final kickout, with Donegal already assured of second place, no matter the result. Mayo, thanks to Fergal Boland’s clutch equaliser, were safe too. In many sports, teams might have mutually decided to run out the clock. But Donegal had other ideas. Patton sent the ball out, and Ciarán Moore burst up the pitch to snatch a late winner and perhaps a free Cavan GAA hoodie too. Manager Jim McGuinness praised the team’s aggressive mindset, but not everyone on the Donegal bench felt the same. Shane O’Donnell, recently substituted, admitted there was uncertainty and mixed signals. “Some were yelling for him to kick it out. Others told Shaun to hold until the hooter,” O’Donnell told RTÉ Sport. “I was even shouting to kick it out myself.” But in the end, the bold move paid off.
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Communication Breakdown and Confusion on the Pitch
O’Donnell explained that even though he was aware of the stakes, those still playing probably didn’t know what was going on due to crowd noise and excitement. “We tried shouting instructions but no one could hear us. Looking back, it’s probably a good thing,” he laughed. Donegal’s reward is a home preliminary round against Louth in Ballybofey. Some fans weren’t pleased with the previous neutral venue choice, Hyde Park, which McGuinness criticized for being too close to Mayo’s base. But O’Donnell said the team didn’t mind — it was just part of the game-day routine.
From Teaching to Turf: O’Donnell’s Journey
Now 23, O’Donnell debuted in 2022, skipped the 2023 season, and came back refreshed for 2024 under McGuinness. After years of traveling between DCU and training, he now teaches Maths and PE in Raphoe alongside teammate Peadar Mogan. The move back home improved both his health and his game.
Murphy’s Return and Living Up to a Legend
O’Donnell was just 10 when Michael Murphy led Donegal to All-Ireland glory. When Murphy quietly returned this season after punditry and committee work, O’Donnell was among the last to hear. Seeing him back in training confirmed the rumors. While not shocked by Murphy’s impact — having seen him shine in club football — O’Donnell admits the veteran exceeded expectations. “He’s a legend for many of us younger lads who hadn’t played with him before.”
