Another chance at All-Ireland glory another disappointment for Mayo.
They were able to rescue the one point deficit two weeks ago but Cillian O'Connor's last minute free curled the wrong side of the inside post yesterday, leaving Dublin to luxuriate in a fourth All-Ireland title since 2011.
Several talking points emerged from the tie, the bulk of which centred around the black card incidents which resulted in Dublin losing Jonny Cooper and Mayo playing most the game without Lee Keegan.
But another aspect which provoked discussion was the decision to start Rob Hennelly in goals ahead of David Clarke. Hennelly's kickouts were intercepted by Dublin players on a number of occasions in the first half and he was eventually dismissed shortly after the restart on a black card.
An incoming ball was fumbled by Hennelly and when Paddy Andrews sprang to drill the ball into the net, the replacement goalie tripped him up, leaving referee Maurice Deegan with no choice but to dismiss Hennelly.
Clarke was drafted in but was unable to redeem the situation when Diarmuid Connolly converted from the penalty spot.
It always tends to be the case that goalkeeping errors during a game are more pronounced than elsewhere on the pitch and in the aftermath of the game, manager Stephen Rochford explained his reasons for starting Hennelly but it could not curtail the criticism of his choice.
Rob Hennelly in bits out on the pitch. Who would be a goalkeeper?
— Kieran Cunningham (@KCsixtyseven) October 1, 2016
Just a few months ago, U21 Cork goalkeeper Anthony Casey had a similar experience in the All-Ireland final against Mayo and he was subjected to a torrent of abuse in the days that followed.
I think it has to be said that Anthony Casey is a fine keeper with a big future and today won't define him or his career by any means.
— Rob Hennelly (@RobHennelly) April 30, 2016
Rob Hennelly paid tribute to Casey on Twitter amidst the vitriol and last night, Casey repaid the favour and displayed his solidarity with his goalkeeping colleague.
Blaming @RobHennelly for @MayoGAA loss is pathetic! Took guts to step in on a last minute call from management! Top keeper and gent!💪ðŸ½
— Anthony Casey (@AnthonyCasey3) October 1, 2016
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