Meath v Donegal: Brendan Devenney backs Jim McGuinness’ side to reach All-Ireland final

Brendan Devenney says Meath have had a “brilliant season” but he is backing Donegal to reach the All-Ireland final.

Meath have defeated Dublin, Kerry and Galway in a giant-killing season as they look to reach a first All-Ireland decider in 24 years at Croke Park on Sunday (16:00 BST).

Ulster champions Donegal, themselves looking a first title since 2012, stand in their way.

“You have to give them respect, they’ve been the story of the season,” said former Donegal forward Devenney.

“Does that story keep going? That’s the question now.”

Devenny feels there have been mitigating factors to Meath’s underdog wins – such as beating Dublin outside Croke Park and an under-strength Kerry underestimating their opponents – but says the quarter-final win over Galway shows what they can do.

“The one that would cause you the most concern as a Donegal supporter would be the Galway game.

“There was some serious backbone from Meath and there are warnings in there for this Donegal team.

However, with Michael Murphy back on the panel and Jim McGuinness at the helm, Devenney feels Donegal’s experience on the big stage means they will have too much for Meath.

“It’s a fifth semi-final in six years and there is a serious amount of experience in the Donegal team,” he said.

“Even though Meath have had a brilliant season, I’d still put Donegal as favourites.”