Dublin U21 manager Dessie Farrell knew his replacements would play a key role in Saturday's All-Ireland semi-final.

In a gruelling contest at O'Moore Park, the four players introduced by Farrell made key contributions as the Leinster champions came from behind to eclipse Ulster kingpins Cavan right at the death.

"We spoke to the lads during the week. You just don't realise the level of intensity in games like that and the physical toll it takes on the body, particularly around the middle sector," the winning manager said in The Irish Independent.

"Fellas wouldn't be able to keep doing it. We had asked some lads to look at it for a 40-minute game.

"They're a mature bunch and we've spoken about the need to be patient all week and that it was going to be very frustrating for forwards in particular.

"We still have yet to play the type of football we might think we are capable of." Tweet

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