Ger Loughnane has said there can be no excuses for the Dublin hurlers losing to Cork in the Allianz League Division 1 semi-final, having led by 12 points at one stage.
A stirring second-half comeback from the Rebels saw them emerge victorious by one point at Nowlan Park on Sunday.
In his column in the Irish Daily Star, Loughnane wrote that it was hard to see the Dubs as serious championship contenders unless their skill levels and composure improve dramatically.
He said their collapse against Cork raised serious questions about the team's pace, confidence and skill.
"The Dublin back-line lacked pace, confidence and skill in tight spaces and were exposed badly," explained the two-time All-Ireland winning manager with Clare.
To further highlight Dublin's shortcomings, Loughnane added: "The main indicator of Dublin's weakness was the number of panicky frees that they conceded.
"When you see that happening with a team, you know it's down to a lack of confidence.
"Maybe Dublin lack confidence because they know they don't have the skill level of Cork, Tipperary, Waterford or Kilkenny.
"Contrast Dublin with the second semi-final and Waterford's performance.
"How many scoreable frees did the Déise concede?
"Very, very few".
