Gavin: there is no right or wrong way to play football

August 27, 2014

Dublin's Eoghan O'Gara and manager Jim Gavin after the win over Meath in the Leinster SFC final. INPHO

Being a good manager is about setting your team up to play to their strengths according to Jim Gavin.

Sunday's All-Ireland SFC semi-final is being billed as the great clash of contrasting styles and the sideline battle of wits between Gavin and his Donegal counterpart Jim McGuinness has added to the anticipation.

Dublin's all-out attacking brand of football will be up against the masters of the blanket defence and Gavin wouldn't be surprised if we see a repeat of the low-scoring 2011 penultimate stage clash between the two teams.

"There is no right or wrong way to play inter-county football," the Dublin boss said to the Examiner.

"That is the beauty of the sport. Management can set their team up whatever way they see fit for that particular county.

"Counties have different cultures as to how they play football. In Dublin we play football the way we inherited it from the managers and players who have gone before us.

"2011 was a very interesting game and it was very interesting to see how the game unfolded tactically. I think we will see something similar on Sunday.

"Donegal have been very impressive this season. They have gained promotion back to Division 1 of the league.

"They had a great provincial campaign, a great win over Monaghan in the Ulster final. Jim has done a fantastic job with Donegal over the past four years.

"Their great success is a testament to his work - three Ulster titles and an All-Ireland crown is a phenomenal achievement.

"The Donegal players are very familiar with their system and very comfortable with it."


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