Bounce of ball is all that’s between sides: Jim Gavin

Dublin and Mayo served up two 'edge of the seat', physically intense battles in last year's All-Ireland SFC final and replay and Dubs boss Jim Gavin is expecting this Sunday's All-Ireland decider to be equally as tough.

"It’s obvious from Mayo’s last three games that they are in very good form. They bring a lot to the table," says Jim.

"We can’t control the tactical dimension that they have. So from that end we’re really focusing on our game plan and really trying to get that right for Sunday.

"We’re expecting a really tough game. A team that gets to four All-Ireland finals in six years through three different managers is a reflection of the attitudes of the players and their desire to represent Mayo as best they can.

"Any of the games we’ve played them in recent times have been very close – the bounce of the ball really between us – and that’s what I expect this Sunday," adds Jim.

"The success of the teams I’ve had in the past has been based on honesty, humility and their capacity for really, really hard work.

"From a Dublin supporter's point of view they’d be thankful those elements are still in the team and they really realise it’s going be a massive, massive challenge against Mayo.

"Both teams are close to the summit. There is a lot of pressure, expectations in both counties. From our part it’s just another game we have to perform in."