By Michael McMullan

HOW much do Donegal want a league final spot? That’s the question this week as they welcome Derry to Ballyshannon on Sunday.

Jim McGuinness spoke after the Armagh win of their six-point tally and not risking anyone.

His selection for Galway last weekend said more. Eoghan Bán Gallagher, Ciarán Thompson and Ryan McHugh weren’t started. McHugh didn’t play at all.

Patrick McBrearty didn’t feature. Michael Murphy didn’t even travel. Finbar Roarty’s hamstring had forced him out of the Armagh game.

After Sunday, Donegal have Tyrone (H) and Mayo (A) before the championship and Derry’s visit to Ballybofey. The Anglo Celt Cup needs defended.

A hallmark of Donegal to date has been their lightening quick counter-attack. Think McBrearty’s fifth point against Armagh.

Ryan McHugh’s run to halfway. Conor O’Donnell ferrying the ball the rest. Ciarán Moore coming in support. McBrearty coming on the burst to flash over.

Much has been made of Donegal not hitting the net, but they’ve not needed too. Their incisive runs are a deadly weapon.

They also have a spread of scorers. McBrearty and Dáire Ó Baoill 0-12 each. Oisín Gallen 0-10. Conor O’Donnell 0-8 with seven each from Ryan McHugh and Thompson. No over reliance on anyone.

Only those inside the Donegal camp will know how much value they placed on the two points on offer in Salthill. If they are picking holes, they’ll not be happy with their composure with the wind.

When they think back to Galway and the All-Ireland semi-final last year, they were so close. But not close enough. Their efficiency left them when they needed it most.

How big is the Derry game for Donegal? Do they want to put down a marker? Do they get more game time into panellists? Do they want to right the mistakes of Salthill? Or, is April the only show in town?

Looking to Sunday, McGuiness will know two things. The championship won’t be in Derry’s mind and they’ll have to come out swinging. Division One survival is hanging by a thread.

Whoever Donegal put into the starting 15 jerseys on Sunday will facing a team fighting for their lives. A championship environment without it being the championship.