Tyrone, Kerry may yet cross paths again at a higher level

Peter Keane. Credit: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Peter Keane. Credit: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

John Campbell

July 24 2021 11:00 AM

There is a big ‘if’ involved but circumstances could yet dictate that we might have a rather mouth-watering confrontation on the All-Ireland football championship agenda.

When Kerry go into action against Cork in tomorrow’s Munster Championship final against Cork, they will not only be seeking to lay claim to yet another provincial title but could be taking a step closer towards a renewal of acquaintance with Tyrone.

With memories of that recent mind-blowing 6-15 to 1-14 league defeat to the Kingdom still all too vivid, the Red Hands have themselves been offered a further incentive to triumph over Monaghan in next Saturday’s Ulster final.

But let’s take first things first. Tomorrow Peter Keane’s side will carry the favourites tag into a showdown with Cork that will have a decided edge. There is no team more aware of what is perceived to be a growing hint of Dublin’s vulnerability than Kerry and that’s why they aim to be firing on all cylinders tomorrow.

Séan O’Shea, David Clifford and Paul Geaney are currently in explosive form up front; David Moran and Diarmuid O’Connor are a formidable midfield duo and Gavin Crowley and Gavin White remain defensive bedrocks.

Cork boast their own battery of battle-hardened foot soldiers with Ian Maguire and Paul Walsh solid at midfield, Brian Hurley and John O’Rourke in harmony up front and Sean Powter and Kevin O’Donovan epitomising their defensive resolve.

Derry referee Barry Cassidy adds another string to his already impressive bow by taking charge of this high-profile fixture.

And in tomorrow’s other showpiece fixture old rivals Mayo and Galway will cross swords in the Connacht final at Croke Park.

James Horan has refurbished the Mayo line-out to such an extent that their next outing is seen as a clash with Dublin but Horan has experienced far too many ‘if only’ days at Headquarters to be taking anything for granted.

His Galway counterpart Padraig Joyce has not has his sorrows to seek of late yet he may have to wait a little longer before the tide turns for him.

Galway were relegated in the league but Joyce now has players back on board who missed out on that campaign and this would suggest that they will give their neighbours a run for their money. Either way, the winners can anticipate a stiff All-Ireland ‘semi’ mission.

Tyrone, Kerry may yet cross paths again at a higher level

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