Donegal have been defeated in their first match of the Dr McKenna cup by Tyrone in an enjoyable game played in difficult conditions at O’Donnell Park. 
Tyrone ran out eventual winners by three points on a scoreline of Donegal 1-07 Tyrone 0-13.
Donegal had led by three points at half-time when Michael Murphy found the net with a clinical finish just minutes after Niall Morgan had wonderfully saved the Glenswilly’s man penalty.
Tyrone were much improved in the second half and goalkeeper Niall Morgan found his range and pointed a couple of excellent long range frees.
He was aided by the excellent Ronan O’Neill and Paddy McNiece.
Donegal were guilty of kicking a number of wides in the second half and only scored two points in the second half.
Rory Kavanagh was the first Donegal player to be shown a ‘Black Card’ since the introduction of the controversial new ruling.
He was replaced by St.Michael’s man Antoin McFadden.
Michael Murphy was lucky to avoid a red card after he struck out late in the second half as Donegal toiled to get back in the match.
Tyrone played out the clock and were very controlled and patient in their play and were convincing winners in the end up.
Donegal can take a lot of positives from the match with Darach O’Connor looking impressive inside.
Donegal also had good displays from Frank McGlynn and Michael Murphy.
It was a good work out for Donegal and Jim McGuinness won’t be too worried about the result.