I got to know Micko better after I became the bainisteoir. I called down to Waterville once a year for an audience with him.

It is important to have these kind of experiences in the memory bank, to be able to draw on them during a sticky patch in  championship.

One of the big takeaways from Mayo’s round 5 win against Kerry was the effectiveness of their press, both on kickouts and in general play.

Kerry's big win in Salthill means the Jack Slam of league and championship is on. Every year that the Kingdom have won the All-Ireland under O'Connor, they have claimed the league title earlier in the season. 

Forwards are redeveloping their lateral movement rather than making straight runs.

After a hectic weekend, it's nicely poised ahead of the final round of league action. 

Paul Galvin helped set the tone and obeyed Páidí’s instructions to the letter. He torpedoed McGeeney at one stage. Kerry need to show their fans the same hurt and focus now. 

As we pass the halfway point of the league it is worth looking at a few talking points as the season gathers steam and takes shape.

Another win on the road in Ulster will stand to Jack O'Connor's charges.

Kerry have questions but a big takeaway is that the Dubs are stirring again.