Finding success but only through sacrifice

2012 may be remembered as the year in which the glass ceiling was shattered for those considered second tier counties in the Gaelic football world.

After what was a largely predictable Championship, the season burst into life when Jim McGuinness and his players tore up the script and sent both Kerry and Cork packing in impressive fashion.

Likewise Mayo surprised many with their similar combination of steel and style when dismissing last year’s winners Dublin in the All-Ireland semi-final.