And it was ever thus. Mayo have lost a ninth All-Ireland final in a row, and it is a third consecutive one-point defeat to Dublin in the September showpiece, too.
For Dublin, it is a third Sam Maguire in a row and a fourth in five years, and their elation contrasted sharply with Mayo's agony. Here's a profile of the post-game scenes in pictures, courtesy of Sportsfile.
Cluxton raises a smile along with the trophy...
...moments after having a performance sealed with a kiss.
The end of a difficult season tastes sweet for Diarmuid Connolly...
...while the match-winner is mobbed.
Cian O'Sullivan, meanwhile, proclaims another glory.
Aidan O'Shea struggled to hold back the emotions...
...as did the reigning Footballer of the Year
Stephen Rochford was aghast among his troops post-match.
And after it all, Jim Gavin even managed to raise a smile.
