Kerry and Galway footballers renew their age old rivalry
the GAA world, the sides have not met that often despite the advent of the Qualifiers. There was the amazing quarter-final of 2008 played in a second half deluge, and just three years ago Galway gave Kerry enough of it for a long time before the Kingdom eased their way to a seven points victory.
All of that brings us to the modern day standard bearers of the famous green and gold and maroon jersies. Kerry emerged from what was a moderate League campaign to down the Dubs but we all know that League and Championship are worlds apart as Kerry’s form when defeating Clare after a struggle in the first round at the start of June is testimony to. On the other hand, Kerry’s form in the Munster final when easily taking care of the Cork challenge may have to be looked at even more favourably when the Rebel’s display against Mayo last weekend is taken into account.
With the exception of Bryan Sheehan, who suffered a re-occurrence of a hamstring injury picked up in training, Kerry are reporting a clean bill of health with goalkeepers Shane Ryan (Rathmore) and Shane Murphy (Dr Crokes) coming into the panel in place of Brendan Kealy who has opted out of the panel for the time being.
Galway, as they had done last season, got the better of Connacht rivals Mayo but then went down badly to Roscommon on home soil in the provincial final, a game the Rossies bossed from start to finish. The Tribesmen regrouped after that display to rout a very disorganised Donegal side last weekend, scoring four goals, and that victory is sure to be a major confidence booster to Kevin Walsh’s charges.
Galway have always been known as a “footballing” side and no doubt that should both suit Kerry and make for a good encounter. The experienced Meath official David Coldrick will be the man in charge. Patrons will also be able to see the current well being of both Roscommon and Meath who meet in the second quarter final at 4pm. The two winners on Sunday will meet in the first All Ireland semi-final on August 20.
The Kerry team will be named on Friday at 8pm and will be posted on the Kerry GAA website. THE Kerry GAA Supporters Club will take coaches to the All-Ireland quarter-finals. All seats must be booked by Thursday night. For bookings, contact Donal O’Leary, John King or Martin Leane. Departure times: Farranfore 6:30, Tralee 7:00, Listowel 7:30am.