Meath were motivated by 'one-hit-wonder' tag - Niamh O'Sullivan

Niamh O'Sullivan had already been playing for Meath for 12 years before she won her first major piece of silverware - the 2020 All-Intermediate title.

A year later, the newly promoted Royals stunned five-in-a-row chasing Dublin to land a first ever senior crown.

Last month, they backed up that success by retaining it as Player of the Match O'Sullivan hit 1-02 against Kerry.

"Last year, we were all probably a bit shocked that we won the All-Ireland," the 32-year-old admits.

"Even in the dressing-room afterwards we were just sitting there and couldn't believe it.

"The whole 'one-hit-wonder’ tag really helped us with our motivation this year. We really wanted to go out and prove a point to people that we didn’t win by fluke last year.

"This year was definitely more special. After the final, we all went back to the dressing-room, sat in a circle and sang songs, it definitely a moment that will live long in my memory.

"We got over the line just about in some games but I think that’s the sign of a great time."

Asked what has changed over the course of her 14 years in the Meath jersey, O'Sullivan points to expanded backroom teams – as well as manager Eamonn Murray she name checks psychologist Kelly Fay, recently-departed coach Paul Garrigan, Shane Wall (coach) Mark Brennan (coach) and Eugene Ivers (S&C coach) – along with simple things like food after training.

"Just the professionalism," says the Dunshauglin woman. "All those extra bits go a long long way.

"The management team have really brought me on. They gave me the enjoyment back in my football and when I’m enjoying my football I play to my best.

"Paul gave Meath six fantastic years and has brought a whole new level of professionalism into the county.

"Girls want to play football for