Focus is on Kerry
Farrell happy with break ahead of League opener
11 January 2020; David Quinn of Dublin is tackled by Patrick Fox of Longford during the O'Byrne Cup Semi-Final match between Longford and Dublin at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park in Longford. Photo by Ray McManus/Sportsfile
Dessie Farrell's Dublin reign got off to a losing start on Saturday - but defeat could prove a blessing in disguise.
An experimental Sky Blue outfit were pipped in the dying seconds by Longford, who now advance to the O'Byrne Cup decider against Offaly.
Asked after the game if it might actually aid their Allianz League build-up not to have to play in a final this weekend, Farrell (left) admitted: "There's definitely a bit of that because we have to get back to work with the main group quickly.
"That will be our focus now, on the (Division 1) opener against Kerry in two weeks' time."
With the 2019 squad back from their team holiday in Bali, they will resume collective field training tomorrow night.
The new boss has confirmed that his former Dublin and Na Fianna teammate, Mick Galvin, will be part of his yet-to-be-finalised management team.
Likewise Shane O'Hanlon, an outgoing selector under Jim Gavin, who joined Farrell and Galvin on the line in Longford and who will retain his logistical role.