We know the story already, the Dubs sent their main team and manager on holiday to Jamaica and the third string team won the O'Byrne Cup. While the likes of Donegal or Kerry were hitting the pitch in cold rainy weather, we presumed that the Dubs were doing some sort of preparation in the Caribbean - maybe some strength and conditioning in the warmer climate.
James McCarthy was speaking to Stephen Doyle for 98fm's 'On The Hill' podcast and the topic of the holiday came up. Did Jim Gavin have his squad pushing themselves in Kingston?
Not particularly.
The only thing I was doing on the beach in Kingston was my feet up with a cocktail in my hand. That was the only thing I done!
No, look, we had a nice break. I can assure you we weren't training on holiday. We're just training smarter now and not trying to flog ourselves.
We're just coming in fresh this season I suppose which kinda helped. Look, there's a big, big challenge on Saturday so we'll find out if we are at the level yet.
The Dubs were able to take an extended holiday and still beat Cavan by seven points at Breffni Park. This weekend, Tyrone visit Croke Park. It's sure to be a harder test but considering that ten of the starting team in last year's All-Ireland started in Cavan (with a longer holiday and less training) will they really be that far off?
The issue of fixture congestion came up as well, with McCarthy feeling that a 'less talk, more action' approach could be the difference in change.
All the stakeholders need to get involved. It's easier for me saying it, but everyone wants more games, more home and away games.
Tradition's nice but we need to be progressive. That's the first change we make and then we could build from there.
You can listen to the full podcast from 98fm here.
The Dubs are the favourites to retain the Sam Maguire trophy again. They haven't even warmed up yet and they're already looking hard to beat.
Photo by Cody Glenn/Sportsfile
