Hard to see chinks in the Kilkenny armour

All the protagonists for this year’s All-Ireland have dipped their toes in the water at this stage.

The chief lesson we have learned is that Kilkenny still look the team to beat. Even without one of their top three performers, Richie Hogan, they eased past a disappointing Dublin side who had impressed in their first game against Wexford.

It was a chastening experience for the Dubs and a setback to their confidence.