Dublin defender Philly McMahon reckons Kerry may have taken a leaf out of Mayo’s book and decided to increase their physicality in an effort to reel in the back to back All-Ireland champions.

It was at this stage two years ago Dublin found there was a limit to their hunger as All-Ireland champions. Denis Bastick can’t say for certain if they will meet another threshold this Sunday.

Most of his colleagues can still only wince at the mention of their 2009 All-Ireland quarter-final hammering by Cork but Rory Kavanagh chuckles.

FEBRUARY gains fall well shortof September losses but what-ever boxes could be ticked for Kerry were ticked. What could be achieved was achieved.

REMINDING Paul Flynn of Dublin’s 2009 All-Ireland quarter-final humiliation to Kerry proves a short conversation.