TO WEE'S COST

Deadly Cormac leads destruction of Louth with a goal double

- PAUL KEANE

CORMAC COSTELLO led the destruction of Louth with 2-5 at Parnell Park.

Costello, one of five starters from last August's All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Mayo, struck his two goals in an opening half when Dublin opened up a 14-point lead.

Lorcan O'Dell, one of eight subs introduced by Dessie Farrell, added 1-1 including Dublin's third goal from a penalty in stoppage time.

It was a useful night all around for Farrell who grabbed the opportunity to look at 23 players with more changes expected ahead of Saturday's trip to Longford who lost to Offaly 1-16 to 2-12 last night.

Dublin only need a draw in the midlands to be sure of a place in the January 22 final, a week before they begin their National League campaign at home to Armagh.