New Westmeath manager Jack Cooney has been dealt a blow as star forward John Heslin is set to take a step away from the panel to complete his studies.

Amid the congratulations John Heslin received after UCD’s historic Sigerson Cup win on Saturday, it was a text message from Cork selector Eamonn Ryan that stood out.

Westmeath 3-19 Meath 2-18: To put all the madness in its proper context, consider where Westmeath were exactly a year ago to the day.

Westmeath 3-14 Louth 0-16: Perhaps a little tough love does work after all.