Dublin win just the tonic for Gilroy

PAT GILROY hailed Dublin’s latest epic with old rivals Meath as the perfect way to sign off on pre-season duty.

Gilroy’s Dubs warmed up for Saturday’s intimidating Allianz league opening round trip to Armagh with a blood and thunder O’Byrne Shield final success.

The maiden title was secured by extra-time points from Bernard Brogan and Paddy Andrews in front of around 5,000 at Parnell Park. And while the Shield win itself won’t exactly set pulses racing among Sky Blues supporters, the hard fought game was just what boss Gilroy wanted.