DUBLIN’S UNSHAKABLE BELIEF in their gameplan saw them through yesterday’s epic All-Ireland semi-final, according to Michael Dara MacAuley.
MacAuley did his All-Star credentials no harm with a brilliant midfield performances as the Dubs powered to a seven-point win over Kerry and set up a final against Mayo on 22 September.
It wasn’t all plain sailing though and Kerry started strongest with early goals from James O’Donoghue and Donnchadh Walsh opening up a five-point lead in the first 11 minutes.
Even after those two early blows Dublin never panicked, MacAuley said.
“You stick to the game plan. It’s not ideal but I think the lads showed great resolve to come through that and it was great to see. Hopefully it sticks and we have that faith going into the final
“You have to believe in what you are doing. If lads fold or think they can do their own thing it’s not worth anything. Lads stuck to the gameplan and we came out on top.”
Dublin’s game response was in marked contrast to the ‘startled earwigs’ of the 2009 quarter-final between the counties when Colm Cooper’s early goal paved the way for Kerry to win by 17 points.
“I wasn’t there in 2009 but there is great character in the team and I think that was shown out there today,” MacAuley added.
“We are going to need every bit of that character going into the final if we are to progress.”
It was Mayo who ended Dublin’s All-Ireland defence in the semi-finals last year but despite that bitter memory, MacAuley said there will be no talk of settling old grudges.
“It’s just another game of football. I know there is a bit of tin at the end of it with old Mr Sam Maguire, but it’s going to be another big day out.”
