Seldom in the history of the GAA has the boat been pushed out for a game other than an All Ireland final as it is for the National Football League opener between Dublin and Tyrone on Saturday January 31.

Not only will the match see the reigning All Ireland champions renew their rivalry with the team they humbled in last year’s quarter-final but it will launch the 125th anniversary celebrations of the GAA with a gigantic fireworks display, musical entertainment and other novelty features marking the occasion.

Croke Park officials are confidently predicting that the game will be an 82,000 sell-out but there is a bonus for every GAA club in the country in that two free tickets will be made available to them.

“We feel this is an appropriate way in which to recognise our clubs and to offer them the chance to be represented at what should be a very special occasion.

Ticket prices for the game cost €20, which is considerably dearer than what the admission will be to other matches in the National League.

Yesterday was the closing date for clubs to make application to Croke Park for their two free tickets and many Ulster GAA units have already, particularly in Tyrone, have already availed of the offer.

Tyrone chairman Pat Darcy said yesterday that it is a privilege for his county to be involved in the match.

“It will be a unique occasion and we are glad to be part of it but of course we want to win,” he smiles.