Let the mind games begin

OWEN Mulligan claims that it was part of Mickey Harte’s All-ireland final mind games to get the ‘Tyrone – The Unbreakable Bond’ documentary aired last Sunday.

The programme was broadcast on TG4 a week ahead of the Tyrone v Dublin SFC decider. It told the emotional story of Tyrone’s All-ireland winning minor teams of 1987-88.

Former Red Hands star Mulligan (above) believes Harte wanted it out there this week to inspire players and supporters ahead of Tyrone’s clash with the hot favourites and defending champions.

“It wasn’t due to come out for

another couple of months yet, I was chatting to the fellas that made it.” said Mulligan, a three-time All-ireland winner under Harte.

“I’ve a strong feeling that Harte had something to do with that.

“That’s the sort of cuteness he has. That’s the mind games that Harte’s playing.

“The feedback on social media was unbelievable. It was very emotional to watch. I forgot about some of the stories.

“That team has been through a lot – and Mickey has also been through a lot.

“He’ll reinvent himself again for this final, come up with something massive and motivate the whole county.

“In interviews, he’s said, ‘Where’s all the bunting? Where’s all the flags?’. Next thing, bang, everything comes out.

“So he tries to get into not only the team’s head, but into supporters’ heads.

“Now call us mad – this is probably the best Dublin team, or the best team that I’ll ever see in my lifetime – but Harte has brought a massive belief.

“He’s a winner. He has tunnel vision to make Tyrone the best county ever – to be the best manager.

“He’ll relish the chance. If any manager can pull off a shock, it’ll be him.”