By James McMahon
Pat Gilroy's Dublin will be hoping to extend their unbeaten run in the league when they travel to Clones to take on Eamon McEneaney's Monaghan.
Their unbeaten run so far is a testament to their fitness, and the ability to plunder goals at the right time. In their games against Cork and Kerry, they raised a green flag six times.
In the heat of summer battle, it’s unlikely that such a return would accrue.
As to their fitness, fans of the ‘Boys in Blue’ may wonder about peaking too early in the season. Pat Gilroy is hardly going to concern himself with such negative thoughts.
Winning is a habit and Dublin, currently reaping the rewards, head to Clones intent on securing another two points.
Monaghan were competitive in going down to Cork last time out, and will make life difficult for the visitors on their home patch.
Conor McManus and Eoin Duffy have impressed for the Farney so far, and manager Eamon McEneaney is not short of other attacking options as he aims to derail the Dubs.
Their defence has to be mindful of the obvious goal threat that the Metropolitans possess.
Keeping the blue wave at bay has been no easy task this spring, but it is a test that this Monaghan side should relish if they want to remain a serious footballing force.
Dublin’s Michael Darragh Macauley impressed when he came on at half time against Cork. It’s one of the many options Pat Gilroy has in blending a side that he hopes will challenge for honours in both league and championship in 2011.
Verdict: Dublin
