Dublin goalkeeper Abbey Shiels revealed that the TG4 All-Ireland title favorites experienced a sense of relief just to reach this weekend’s final.
The 2023 champions are set to clash with their long-standing rivals, Meath, on Sunday, in a rematch of the 2021 decider.
While Meath convincingly defeated reigning champions Kerry by a six-point margin in their semi-final encounter earlier this month, Dublin faced a tough battle against Galway, ultimately prevailing after extra-time.
Hannah Tyrrell, a prolific attacker, successfully converted a long-range free kick, forcing the game into additional time. The Dublin team, jointly managed by former Dublin footballers Paul Casey and Derek Murray, ultimately secured the victory.
“There was a sense of relief at the end,” Shiels acknowledged. “On the bus back, it was quite late, and we were reflecting on the game, acknowledging areas we could have improved and things that could have gone differently.”
“We were acutely aware that the game could have slipped away from us, and it almost did at the end of normal time.”
“The opportunity to regroup after normal time and proceed into extra-time proved to be a significant advantage and encouragement. We were united in our determination to step up. We were prepared for extra-time, having experienced it the previous year. We knew we would do whatever it took.”
Shiels has been a starter in all seven of Dublin’s Championship matches this season, and played in the 2023 final victory over Kerry.
Two years prior, she was Ciara Trant’s understudy on the bench when Dublin suffered defeat against Meath in the final.
“I’m glad I was there and experienced what Meath did to us that year,” she stated, alluding to a defeat that prompted Dublin to introspect and reorganize. “We all felt it, regardless of whether we were playing on the pitch. I believe we all experienced the impact of that year.”
“However, you have to move on from that and park it to some extent. Regarding this weekend, we have put 2021 behind us and are focused on playing the way we have been playing, raising our standards and doing everything possible to get us the win.”
The Lucan Sarsfields goalkeeper drew comparisons between Dublin’s unexpected triumph in 2023, when they were not widely considered favorites, and the progress Meath has demonstrated so far in 2025.
“This year’s championship is arguably one of the most open I’ve witnessed,” she said.
“It’s becoming increasingly open over the years, and more competitive. The league feels like a distant memory, but Meath’s and our own performances were inconsistent throughout.”
“It’s similar to 2023 when we were dismissed early on. The way we stepped up in the semi-final and final, showcasing our abilities and raising our standards, was fantastic and demonstrated that you can’t write anyone off too soon.”
“That applies to both teams this Sunday, in my opinion.”
