Another stepping stone, says Mitchell, as sights set on Leinster crown

SO, for the second time in two weeks we were treated to the highly unusual sight of Westmeath players, officials and management bounding across the Croke Park pitch in joyous abandon.

It was no different away from the public’s gaze either. Their cries of delight could be heard echoing through the bowels of the Hogan Stand long before the dressing room even came into view.

But this is a team with more than just prized scalps in mind. Silverware is the goal for these Westmeath lads.