Westmeath's display in defeating Laois makes this an interesting tie. They have brought their under-age talent through well, and the pedigree of forwards such as Dessie Dolan, Martin Flanagan and Ger Heavin is well known. But the defence was tighter than had been expected against Laois, with David Mitchell superb at full back, and the Rory O'Connell-driven midfield took command.

Dublin will be a sterner test, but Tom Carr's team haven't demonstrated much championship consistency over the past couple of years. Ian Robertson's return is welcome news for Dublin and together with Jason Sherlock's good form against Wexford, gives the attack more bite but it still doesn't look utterly convincing. Wexford's inside line wrought havoc against Dublin and Westmeath are well capable of emulating that. The possible loss of Ciaran Whelan throws even centrefield into the balance.

Despite these reservations, Dublin may shade it but they'll know they've had a match.