We need huge step up from semi-final: Sinéad Aherne

Wed, 2nd May 2018

Dublin forward Sinéad Aherne knows that her side will have to improve from their semi-final showing if they are to secure the county's first NFL1 title this Sunday.

The Jackies face familiar opponents Mayo, in a repeat of last year's All-Ireland Ladies SFC final, in Sunday's Lidl Ladies NFL Division 1 decider in Parnell Park (4.0).

Mick Bohan's edged out Galway last time out as they came with a storming finish to snatch victory courtesy of a brilliantly worked Nicole Owens goal.

“Galway are a good team. They came out of the blocks very quickly. They were able to impose their game on us. We were playing the game on their terms," says Sinéad.

“But gradually we came more into it, and we got good momentum in the second half. We can’t afford to give Mayo the head-start that we gave Galway. Mayo have the quality to punish us.

“We made a lot of mistakes against Galway. We had a lot of turnovers. We tried to force it a bit too much. We weren’t happy with our performance. We’ll need a huge step up from that to beat Mayo.”

Sinéad is hoping Dublin fans flock to Parnell Park on Sunday and get behind their team.

“Having the game in Parnell Park is a good opportunity for the Dublin followers to come out. It would be nice if we got big numbers again.

“It’s a compact venue, and hopefully there will be a great atmosphere."

Even in the absence of the legendary Cora Staunton, who spent the spring playing for Greater Western Syndney in the Women's Australian Football League, Mayo have impressed in this year's league. They defeated the mighty Cork in their semi-final.

“Dublin v Mayo are always close games, and I’m expecting another tight one," adds Sinéad. "Mayo are a very good side. They have the blend of youth and experience. They are well balanced.”