McMahon: Ruthless Dublin on upward curve

Dublin's devastating performance against Louth was a timely reminder of what the boys in blue are capable of, but they are still behind a number of teams in the race for Sam Maguire, according to former player Philly McMahon.

After losing two successive All-Ireland semi-finals, Dessie Farrell’s men emerged from Division 2 earlier this year without setting the world alight.

Added to that Kildare pushing the Dubs all the way in the Leinster semi-final, there was a growing sense that for all the decorated players still involved, they would struggle to reach the heights of some of the football displayed during their all-conquering six-in-a-row days.

However, a resurgent Louth were simply blown away in the provincial decider, Dublin plundering five goals and at times looking irresistible in a 21-point victory at Croke Park.

Eight-time All-Ireland winner McMahon says it was encouraging from a Dublin perspective to see his former team-mates show no mercy in front of the posts.

"Kildare probably poked the bear a little bit and that gave the lads a bit of motivation going into the Leinster final.

"There were parts of it I watched and I was buzzing from it. The goal where James (McCarthy) punches it and then they're just ruthless going straight for the black spot I think that's what we need to see with Dublin, because they're going to play teams that are not going to be as open.

"So it was great to see that when they got the chances they took them."

Their opening SFC group game against Roscommon this weekend is their first game against Division 1 opposition this year, and the Ballymun Kickhams man is expecting a step-up in challenge as we approach the business end of the season.

With three games to come in quick succession, panels will be