“Our fellas worked like dogs out there. That was probably where the game was won, in the first half.”

A strong work ethic was key to Kerry’s impressive victory over Mayo, according to Peter Keane.

“Kerry were very good today, we were a little bit off and they ran out comfortable winners. But we have to move on straight away, there’s nothing we can do about it now.”

James Horan won’t be dwelling on the past as Mayo turn their attention to a Phase 2 encounter with Meath.

“It sets us up now for a match against Kerry. We know we need improvement.”

It’s the Kingdom up next for Declan Bonner and Donegal.

“Obviously a proud moment but it didn’t really change the preparation for the game. We’d a job to do today up against a good Meath side. Listen, we’re happy we got the win first of all.”

Sharpshooter Patrick McBrearty scored 1-6 on his 100th game in the county colours.

“A point up with 15 minutes to go does not get the job done so we would be very disappointed. But very proud and happy with the performance considering the amount of people who did not give us a chance. We put on a decent show out there.”

Andy McEntee’s Meath will take on Mayo in Croke Park next Sunday in what is now a must-win game for both teams.

“I think it's all on the line for both teams - both teams will be seeking a victory. We played them at Hyde Park a number of months ago. A really, really good game. We came away impressed with them.”

Jim Gavin and the Dubs will look to continue their winning ways against Roscommon.

“They're an outstanding team, but I felt we gave as good as we got for a long time.”

Cork posed plenty of problems for the five-in-a-row chasing metropolitans at GAA HQ on Saturday evening and Ronan McCarthy will be hoping for more of the same against Tyrone next weekend.

"I suppose in this format you might think that you could afford to lose a game but not when Dublin are in your group.”

Tyrone got two points on the board at Roscommon’s expense and Mickey Harte underlined the importance of their victory at Dr Hyde Park.

“It is a big challenge to play Dublin but what better challenge would you want in your football career. We are really looking forward to it.”

Down but not out – Anthony Cunningham isn’t writing off his Roscommon team’s chances of springing a surprise on the Dubs.

"Wexford certainly won't be quaking in their boots with what they've seen out there today. They will be raging hot favourites. But we're exactly where we want to be and are looking forward to coming back here in two weeks’ time.”

Tipperary’s reward for their win over Laois is a semi-final showdown with Leinster champions and Liam Sheedy will demand improvement from his players.

“I don't think anyone is going to take us too casually in the Leinster championship next year.”

Eddie Brennan and the O’Moore County have no intention of just making up the numbers in next year’s Bob O’Keeffe Cup competition.

"The prize for winning today is not a trophy but it’s getting into the All-Ireland semi-final. Obviously that’s absolutely the focus and our intention all the time.”

Kilkenny got the disappointment of their Leinster final defeat out of their system against Cork and it’s business as usual for Brian Cody.

“Cork hurling will be back next year, have no doubt about that.”

John Meyler refused to be drawn on his future as Rebel County boss following their 3-18 to 2-27 defeat.

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