Dublin and Jonny Cooper relish removal of 'safety net'

The lack of a second chance in their province will still be novel and, according to six-time All-Ireland winning defender Cooper, will lend extra bite to proceedings

Jonny Cooper of Na Fianna and Dublin arrives at Parnell Park ahead of a county championship game last month. Picture: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

It's 10 years since Dublin last took advantage of a second chance in the Championship but Jonny Cooper is excited about the 'rawness' of this year's knockout format all the same.

Dublin begin the defence of the Leinster title against Westmeath on November 7/8 and, like every other team, if they lose their first game they'll be out.