By Cian O'Connell

"I have no doubt in saying that, it was the most special All-Ireland I’ve ever won," Dublin captain James McCarthy reflected in the post match media briefing under the Hogan Stand.

McCarthy, Stephen Cluxton, and Michael Fitzsimons all claimed a record ninth All-Ireland SFC title. This was particularly sweet for Ballymun Kickhams clubman McCarthy following two significant Croke Park defeats to Mayo and Kerry in the past couple of campaigns.

"To come back after being knocked down twice and a few people ruling you out and thinking the time has passed, but I knew we were still good enough to win it," McCarthy added.

"I had no doubt in my mind. It was just getting a few pieces together, try to drive a few lads on to get a bit better and myself get better, Mick Fitz get better, Stephen Cluxton get better.

"Look what Mick Fitz did today. Mission impossible, some would say, but he went one-on-one with David Clifford all day.

"I've played with Mick a long time, he is an incredible player. He is like glue. That’s the type of player you have on the team, sacrificing everything, and that’s so important. That was special today.”

McCarthy was also delighted for manager Dessie Farrell, who sat beside him at the press conference. "I just thought some of the shots at him the last two years were disgraceful to be honest," McCarthy remarked.

"It’s always on the players who cross the white line out there. We lost two All-Ireland semi-finals, one by a kick of a ball, one after extra time. The margins are tight. Very, very tight. We’ve come out the other side of them plenty of times as well.

"We were ferociously disappointed with the last two seasons. We were hurt. They really did hurt. But life goes on. We gathered at the start of the year. We had a bit of a chat at the wedding, try to get a few boys back.

"And they made a difference as well, not just them. You see Cian Murphy came on today, exceptional. Sean McMahon driving forward. So it was a real team performance got us over the line.

"I’m so happy for this man. His care for everyone is truly special."