Éamonn Fitzmaurice: A quicker, better game with room for innovation. This is just the beginning 

Everyone’s brain is on overdrive wondering how they can innovate their thinking and practice around the enhanced rules

HISTORY BOYS: Odhran Murdock of Ulster scores a goal despite the efforts of Connacht goalkeeper Connor Gleeson. Pic: Shauna Clinton/Sportsfile

When Johan Cruyff was still playing with Ajax in the early 1970s he had a great line about Italian teams - “they can't beat you, but you can lose to them.” Gaelic Football has evolved to this state where it has too often become all about not losing rather than going after the win. Hang in there, keep it tight and try to nick it late on. 

Yes, there are still good matches but unfortunately too many bad ones. There have always been bad matches but in modern times bad matches have become excruciatingly boring. Our great invasion sport has become more about retreating than invading. People have started voting with their feet and attendances are down. Interest is low and apathy is prevalent. Atmospheres at matches are subdued and the mobile phone has become an all too familiar crutch to relieve the ennui as games enter the endless possession phases.