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Dubs boss frustrated by lethargic win in Wicklow

- KARL O'KANE

'ANNOYED and frustrated' Dessie Farrell says his Dublin players need to look at themselves after a lethargic display in yesterday's Leinster quarter-final victory over Wicklow at Aughrim.

Farrell's side emerged by nine points to set up a provincial semi-final encounter with Meath at Portlaoise in a fortnight after the Royals overcame Offaly at Pairc Tailteann.

Dublin boss Farrell is pleased the game will be played outside Croke Park, which he says can be “pretty lifeless and soulless” for Leinster semi-finals.

But it was a Dublin display that left more questions than answers as Oisin McConville's Division 4 side really put it up to the Leinster champions, who are bidding for a 20th title in 21 seasons.

Speaking after the game, Farrell said there would be “plenty of time for soul-searching” as the Dubs posted poor back-to-back displays, having been well beaten in Tyrone in the final round of the League.

The All-Ireland winning minor, under-21 and senior manager said: “I am more annoyed and frustrated now at this point in time. On the positive side of things, we had six new Championship debutants.

“We got more game time in for the fellas who are just getting back from injury. You would have thought we'll have a few lads ready to go for the next one. We have had a couple of very good weeks of training. It is definitely something to look forward to.