By Michael McMullan

IT could be Derry’s day if they can find a way past goalkeeper Shaun Patton says former Donegal star Colm McFadden.

In a feature for this week’s Ulster final preview in Gaelic Life, McFadden said it’s great for the county to have a team to follow thanks to 10 Ulster final appearances in 12 seasons.

The St Michael’s man kicked the final point of Donegal’s 1-11 to 0-8 win over Derry in the 2011 final as they made their breakthrough and he can see some similarities to the team Rory Gallagher has assembled in the Oakleaf County

“Derry were a bit like Donegal, they always had good players but it didn’t happen for them since 2011 and even from the 2014 League final,” McFadden said.

“They are finally got their act together and they are finally playing with one another. It is a good brand of football, they’ve bought into Rory Gallagher’s system and they are enjoying playing for him.”

McFadden commented on Gareth McKinless’ interview after their win over Monaghan and the tone of it.

“They are proud to play for them, they are confident and they are a good team to watch. It is going to be a good game.

“If Derry do score goals against them it could be Derry’s day, but hopefully Donegal can keep the goals out,” said McFadden, referring to Cavan having chances to change the direction of the semi-final.

“They can afford to concede on goal, but any more than that then they could be in bother.”

Check out our extensive Ulster final coverage in this week’s edition. Click here…