Usual suspects must change to halt Dublin juggernaut
A STAPLE of recent New Years is the prediction of Mayo’s demise. This time, like last time, and the time before, and every season since their loss to Kerry in that ageless All-Ireland semi-final replay in 2014, the sense is that Mayo are past their best.
In ignoring that talk and returning to finals and semi-finals again and again, they have established themselves as the greatest Mayo team in 60 years, and one of the forces that have shaped modern football.
However, the argument that if Dublin are to be beaten in the Championship of 2018 it will take Kerry, rather than Mayo, to do so has its persuasions. Mayo’s thrilling 2017 was enormously influenced by Andy Moran, a deserved winner of footballer of the year as a result.
However, he is now in his mid-30s and while the manner in which he has adapted and improved his game is a great tribute to his dedication, Mayo will need a revivified Cillian O’Connor and at least one more consistently threatening forward to beat Jim Gavin’s men.
Kerry’s problems have been sourced elsewhere. If Éamonn Fitzmaurice can improve his defence, then a forward line headed by Paul Geaney and James O’Donoghue can earn consistent rewards.
As important is strengthening midfield, though, and that requires David Moran at his best. He is crucial to a competitive Kingdom.