Donegal manager Declan Bonner says his players face the risk of being substituted if they are booked early in Saturday’s Ulster semi-final with Tyrone.
The Ulster heavyweights collide at Breffni Park for an eighth Championship clash in nine years and Bonner insists he’ll be taking no chances.
The mercury rarely takes long to rise when these teams meet, but Bonner says his players mustn’t be left treading on a disciplinary tight rope.
“Discipline is huge,” Bonner said.
“At this stage, picking up a yellow card, you’ll be looking over the shoulder. An early card probably means you’ll be substituted.
“That’s just the way because you can’t afford to lose men. Discipline will be a huge factor and it’s something that we’re always talking about in the group.”
Last year, Tyrone condemned Donegal to a first League or Championship loss in Ballybofey in eight years as the Red Hands stormed to a Super 8 win that saw them into the All-Ireland semi-finals.
David Gough will referee Saturday’s meeting.
Bonner said: “David will do his job and he’s an experienced referee.
“It’s a battle of the heavyweights. It’s the game that everyone has been waiting for. It’s a huge game and it’ll come down to fine margins.
“There’s a good rivalry and the two teams know each other reasonably well. It’s a big, big game in a really good Championship.
“It’ll be a really good match. Both teams will play in the proper way. Yeah, there’ll be an edge to it. It’s the Ulster Championship and you expect nothing less. It’s one to look forward to.”
