Apart from a single Dublin win in 1978 (bohs) the league winners from 1976 to 1983 was a a non Dublin affair. Lge wins were as follows during that period. This does not take into account the superb Waterford side, and to a lesser extent Cork Hibs, but I`m too young to recall their lge winning years !! So in answer to your question, yes Dublin clubs must have been a lot weaker then, but the standard was a lot more widespread throughout the regions. The below is a list from 1976 - 1990.
Dundalk (1976)) Sligo (77) Dundalk (79), Limerick (80), Athlone (81) Dundalk (82), Athlone (83) Rovers (84-87)) Dundalk (88), to complete the 80`s St Pats (89) & Derry (89/90)
Bookmarks