Issue link: http://digitaleditions.uberflip.com/i/1322152
KELLY MALLON PLAYER'S PERSPECTIVE Q : Kelly, thanks a lot for chatting to us. You tuned in to watch the 2020 TG4 All-Ireland Senior Final between Cork and Dublin. What were your thoughts on the game? A: Cork had a very positive start and caused problems for Dublin when they moved the ball fast, with Dublin lacking composure in the first quarter in particular. I think both teams' defences were very strong in the tackle - and it was a physical encounter. Dublin's ability to take their chances in the second half, and manage the game, was enough to see them through. Q : Having played against Dublin at the semi-final stage, were they your tip for the Final, or did you feel that Cork would win it? A: Yes, I thought Dublin would win by one or two points. Cork are a fantastic team but to win an All-Ireland, you're probably going to need more than 1-5 on the board. Q : Where do you think the Final was won and lost? A: If Cork moved the ball as well as they did in the first quarter, it would have continued to cause Dublin problems. They seemed to take a lot out of the ball and took it into the tackle. You won't get away with that against Dublin, their intensity and tackling is phenomenal, and they play on the edge. It's a key feature in Dublin's game and they gauge how the referee will play the game really well. Q : Who were the key performers on the day? A: Both teams' defences were outstanding, but from midfield onwards Dublin were the better team in the second half. I don't think there was any stand-out performances from either side and that, for me, is the platform for Dublin's success. They play as a unit and are excellent at managing a game. Q : Having competed in the 2020 Championship, how different do you think preparations were for both counties ahead of this Final, with the game behind closed doors at Croke Park? A: At this point I think both teams would have adapted well to restrictions in the build-up and on the day itself. I don't think it would have hindered either team's preparations but I'm sure it was difficult for both sides not having their families, friends and supporters there on the day. Q : How do you rate Armagh's season, and are you confident of making another big impact in 2021? A: We had a poor League campaign, took some time off during lockdown and came back with a greater sense of gratitude and appetite for success. When we got back together, we worked incredibly hard and genuinely enjoyed every training session and game, which I'm sure was evident in our performances. I'm very proud of our championship campaign and we're looking forward to 2021. 14 | WINTER 2020 | www.ladiesgaelic.ie Kelly Mallon was Armagh captain for the 2020 season. The Orchard County star enjoyed a terrific season and was a member of the team beaten by eventual winners Dublin at the semi-final stage of the TG4 Senior Championship. Here, Kelly reviews the Final victory for the Sky Blues over Cork. "I think both teams would have adapted well to restrictions in the build-up and on the day itself. I don't think it would have hindered either team's preparations but I'm sure it was difficult for both sides not having their families, friends and supporters there on the day."