Dublin have made a questionable start to their GAA league campaign, with Dessie Farrell's side falling to defeats against Monaghan and Mayo to kick off 2024.
Each of those results could have gone either way, with the games right in the balance until the final whistle. In saying that, there has been some criticism relating to the approach employed by the Dubs.
Writing in his column in the Irish Independent last week, Joe Brolly highlighted their use of Con O'Callaghan as one example of what he feels is tactical mismanagement from their coaches.
They have gone back to the dull, formulaic, risk-free stuff that had become their hallmark since Dessie Farrell’s arrival...
In O’Callaghan’s breakthrough year (2017) his introductory acts in Croke Park were two brilliant solo goals in the All-Ireland semi-final and final, scything through seasoned, expert defences like a young George Best...
Nowadays, he hardly gets the ball. When he does he is way outfield. He used to be Diego Maradona. Now he is James Milner.
It will be interesting to see how that dynamic develops over the rest of the year.
In saying that, some believe the criticism directed towards Dublin has been a tad harsh.
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GAA: Pat Spillane not convinced by Joe Brolly Dublin claim
During their time as two of the biggest GAA pundits on our screens, Pat Spillane and Joe Brolly butted heads on quite a few occasions down through the years on RTÉ.
While this is not to that level, Spillane has questioned his former colleague's opinion relating to this year's Dublin team.
Writing in the Sunday World, the Kerry man said that the criticism directed towards the Dubs has been somewhat unfair.
I wouldn’t read anything into their two losses in the league so far. Even fielding depleted sides, they could have easily won both games.
Dublin look like they are using the league to get competitively fit and try out different combinations, as well as look at new players who might make an impact off the bench later on.
By the way, I don’t agree with Joe Brolly’s contention that Dublin are boring to watch. At times all counties play boring football. Dublin can and do play exciting and entertaining football as well.
Let’s be realistic, they’re not in the entertainment business, they are in the results business. If you want entertainment, go to the cinema or the theatre.
Dublin have not been at their brilliant best so far in 2024, but they still have plenty of time to improve at this early stage in the GAA season.
There is no doubt that they will be competing come the business end of the championship later this summer.
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