O'Leary urges Farney to go "toe-to-toe" with Dubs

August 07, 2014

John O'Leary
John O'Leary believes the only way Dublin can be beaten is if the opposition takes the game to them.

After cruising to their ninth Leinster SFC title in 10 years, the All-Ireland champions are hot favourites to continue their winning ways against Monaghan on Saturday. But if the beaten Ulster finalists are to cause an upset, goalkeeping legend O'Leary feels they will need a gung-ho attitude.

"Monaghan will bring a different style of football this Saturday. They will cause Dublin a few problems around the pitch," he is quoted in the Irish Examiner.

"They are a big, strong physical team. They will bring the physical challenge Dublin expected from Meath, the physical challenge Dublin haven't faced in the championship this year. Conor McManus, Kieran Hughes and Vinny Corey are excellent forwards. Their backs are also very good and love to charge up the field.

"What will be important more so than anything is how Monaghan set up. I feel to beat Dublin you have to go toe-to-toe with them. You have to take the game to them. If you stand back and allow them possession, invite them up the pitch and don't challenge their kick-outs, it is very hard to play against Dublin when you don't have possession.

"It is very hard to defend against wave after wave after wave of Dublin attack. Your best bet is to get possession and go at Dublin."

"For Monaghan, it is important to stay in the game as long as they can."

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