FOOTBALL ANALYST:PAUL Caffrey's decision to make five changes to the Dublin team for tomorrow's Leinster final against Wexford demonstrates a change in attitude from previous years. It's a positive step from a management team that in former times was slow to make alterations before or during matches, writes John O'Keeffe.
The swingeing alterations were necessary and represent at face value not only an important reward for players showing good form in training but also a realistic appraisal of some of the Dubs' shortcomings the last day.
The defence acquitted itself well against Westmeath - with the exception of Ross McConnell, and he's paid the price in losing out to Paul Griffin.
The Kilmacud Crokes man will start a championship match for the first time since his sabbatical from the game and while there is always a risk associated with a player returning to competitive fare it is offset by his experience and ability.
Caffrey is aware of the threat the Wexford full-forward line poses and has opted for three tight-marking defenders to try to negate the threat of Ciarán Lyng, PJ Banville and Mattie Forde.
It's likely Griffin will pick up Forde. Griffin is athletic and quick and if Forde roves outfield it will suit the former.
Wexford manager Jason Ryan deserves great credit for making Forde more of a team player who seems comfortable laying ball off to colleagues rather than taking on too much himself.
For such a young coach Ryan has done a superb job, instilling belief and organisation. It's a difficult thing to do in a team not used to winning trophies.
Ciarán Whelan's return to the Dublin midfield had been touted in the build-up to the match and there's no doubt he is a leader and a potential match winner. The Dublin forwards' tally against Westmeath wasn't good enough, and therefore it's no surprise Kevin Bonner and Dermot Connolly have been introduced. But Bernard Brogan will be a loss.
Collie Moran's late reprieve might yet see him start but I believe it would send out the wrong message to Kevin Nolan. If he's good enough to be named in the team then he should take the field. It is in such a situation man-management skills are so important. Nolan needs to be told he doesn't need to look to the sidelines to see when he might be replaced.
A tactic evident in Wexford's previous matches has been to surge forward, particularly from half-back. It's a gung-ho style that could have serious repercussions if they lose possession, because they'll be vulnerable numerically on a turnover.
There isn't a better team in the championship than the Dubs on the counterattack. They sweep forward with great pace and invariably capitalise.
Meath and Laois didn't do this against Wexford despite several opportunities but I don't think Dublin will be as profligate.
The Dubs should look to Jason Sherlock to mastermind their attack, getting ball to him quickly and often. His distribution is excellent and he brings out the best in those around him.
The Dubs play the game at a higher pace and with greater intensity than most other teams, and if Bryan Cullen again proves a galvanising presence they will be very difficult to contain.
It will be interesting to note how Wexford cope playing in Dublin's home patch in front of 82,000 fans. Provided they take the easy points early on I think the Dubs will have chances for goals later. They've got the stronger bench to boot and I can't see them being beaten if they produce a decent performance.
The Ulster final between Armagh and Fermanagh offers a marked contrast in styles. Armagh will be eager for a dour, physical battle, delighted if the ball is played up and down the middle of the pitch. They'll relish the prospect of grinding out a result.
Fermanagh have been a breath of fresh air, looking to exploit the open spaces, funnelling possession out wide and employing their speed and athleticism. This is the approach they'll have to adhere to. They can't allow themselves to be drawn into an arm-wrestle.
They need to use space intelligently, recycle ball and be patient enough to wait for the opportunities to present themselves. Malachy O'Rourke deserves credit for what has been a simple but effective game plan.
The Fermanagh defence shut down Paddy Bradley effectively in the Derry match and will face a similar challenge in containing two of the best inside forwards in the country - Ronan Clarke and Steven McDonnell.
It's likely Fermanagh will look for a three-versus-two match-up in this area.
Armagh showed against Down they were content to give away fouls with tackles that are on the edge. Fermanagh have to rise above this and concentrate on the football. If they do then I think a little bit of history will be made - that would leave Micko and Wicklow on their own - tomorrow at Clones.
