Kerry by 2.
Wouldn't bet against extra time and a replay.
Donegal for me. I think they'll wear Kerry down over the 70 minutes.
Donegal by 4.
The opportunity for Jim McGuinness to cement his legacy or like 2014 All-Ireland final Kerry to be his kryptonite once more.
A rerun of 2014. What do you think of that Joe Brolly. Jimmy will want to ensure there isn't a second Kerry win in the feature.
A great contrast in styles. I said in the pre championship predictions that whoever knocked Armagh out would win Sam so I'll stick with that. Two very good teams though and should be an intriguing battle.
Its amusing when you talk to Donegal folk or observe Facebook comments.
There's a fierce self belief and almost entitlement to Sam this year.
Like the Oracle has seen Jim do it and its just a matter of prophecy playing itself out.
Kerry surely won't be as wasteful in possession but the fitness and fierceness of the fully operational Donegal Machine will be hard beat.
How Donegal manage Joe O'Connor will be very interesting. He has been immense for Kerry last two games and for me should be poty unless Clifford gets it. If they stop him it will have a massive influence in stopping Kerry. I think they have players that can stop paudie Clifford. David Clifford is a damage limitation job.
Donegal are a good team & deserve to be in the final but they beat 3 division 2 teams to get there. Kerry for me will have too much for them, the experience from beating 2 Ulster teams in the quarter and semi final will stand to them.
Assuming Kerry win they'll have beaten 4 Ulster teams in a row.
Jacks 8th all ireland final in 11 terms, thats a superb record whatever way you cut it.
Of this current Kerry group its their 3rd final in 4 years.
Not much point in us turning up. Sure we haven't played or beaten any Division 1 or Ulster teams this year, unlike Kerry. :)
Quote from: J70 on July 13, 2025, 09:21:36 PMNot much point in us turning up. Sure we haven't played or beaten any Division 1 or Ulster teams this year, unlike Kerry. :)
I could have swore you beat us, Monaghan, Down and Armagh. Must have dreamt that.
Whoever wins they will be the first team since Cork in 2010 to not automatically qualify for the Quarter Finals and win the All Ireland.
Jimmy will go left field and play Murphy on Clifford....
Quote from: J70 on July 13, 2025, 09:21:36 PMNot much point in us turning up. Sure we haven't played or beaten any Division 1 or Ulster teams this year, unlike Kerry. :)
Donegal must surely be the first team ever to win the Ulster championship without beating an Ulster team.
Oh dear.
Canavan sub tactic, Murphy off at half time then on for the final 20 minutes.
In the 69th minute Donegal will be down by 1 point.
Patton will nail a long distance kick, tapped down by Langan into path of Moore who draws a defender to him outside the 45.
Ball is slipped to Murphy who bursts the ball as the hooter sounds with a sky high two pointer.
GAA fines Murphy for damaging property. Donegal lift Sam.
I missed Murphy looking a bit gammy before he came off. Had that weird stumble before kicking his final point.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 13, 2025, 09:43:53 PMWhoever wins they will be the first team since Cork in 2010 to not automatically qualify for the Quarter Finals and win the All Ireland.
I'm assuming when you say automatically qualify for a quarter final that means having to play a preliminary playoff game or back door game to qualify for the quarter final? Kerry and Donegal both won their provincials which in previous formats like 2010 would have automatically qualified them.
The last 2 years have resulted in two firsts when it come to all Ireland winners. Armagh won the all Ireland last year without winning their provincial championship and without having to play a knockout preliminary/back door knockout game to reach the quarter finals and this years winner will be the first team to win it having won their provincial but having to play a knockout game to reach the quarter finals.
I go for Kerry, no particular reason, either could win, but I go with the team with the best player. Kerry have to many fires that need put out!
Can't they both lose?
Quote from: Easttyrone23 on July 13, 2025, 10:59:05 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 13, 2025, 09:43:53 PMWhoever wins they will be the first team since Cork in 2010 to not automatically qualify for the Quarter Finals and win the All Ireland.
I'm assuming when you say automatically qualify for a quarter final that means having to play a preliminary playoff game or back door game to qualify for the quarter final? Kerry and Donegal both won their provincials which in previous formats like 2010 would have automatically qualified them.
The last 2 years have resulted in two firsts when it come to all Ireland winners. Armagh won the all Ireland last year without winning their provincial championship and without having to play a knockout preliminary/back door knockout game to reach the quarter finals and this years winner will be the first team to win it having won their provincial but having to play a knockout game to reach the quarter finals.
Armagh's All-Ireland was also historic in that none of their players had a provincial winners medal.
Quote from: gallsman on July 13, 2025, 10:52:31 PMI missed Murphy looking a bit gammy before he came off. Had that weird stumble before kicking his final point.
Was slightly off balance but looked puffed before that anyway
Quote from: blanketattack on July 13, 2025, 11:36:48 PMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 13, 2025, 10:59:05 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 13, 2025, 09:43:53 PMWhoever wins they will be the first team since Cork in 2010 to not automatically qualify for the Quarter Finals and win the All Ireland.
I'm assuming when you say automatically qualify for a quarter final that means having to play a preliminary playoff game or back door game to qualify for the quarter final? Kerry and Donegal both won their provincials which in previous formats like 2010 would have automatically qualified them.
The last 2 years have resulted in two firsts when it come to all Ireland winners. Armagh won the all Ireland last year without winning their provincial championship and without having to play a knockout preliminary/back door knockout game to reach the quarter finals and this years winner will be the first team to win it having won their provincial but having to play a knockout game to reach the quarter finals.
Armagh's All-Ireland was also historic in that none of their players had a provincial winners medal.
It was also historic in that they were officially the weakest team to ever win the All Ireland.
Quote from: blanketattack on July 13, 2025, 11:36:48 PMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 13, 2025, 10:59:05 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 13, 2025, 09:43:53 PMWhoever wins they will be the first team since Cork in 2010 to not automatically qualify for the Quarter Finals and win the All Ireland.
I'm assuming when you say automatically qualify for a quarter final that means having to play a preliminary playoff game or back door game to qualify for the quarter final? Kerry and Donegal both won their provincials which in previous formats like 2010 would have automatically qualified them.
The last 2 years have resulted in two firsts when it come to all Ireland winners. Armagh won the all Ireland last year without winning their provincial championship and without having to play a knockout preliminary/back door knockout game to reach the quarter finals and this years winner will be the first team to win it having won their provincial but having to play a knockout game to reach the quarter finals.
Armagh's All-Ireland was also historic in that none of their players had a provincial winners medal.
I'm not trying to make a dig at Armagh but it's actually crazy that a team that hadn't won a provincial in 16 years went on to win the all Ireland. In that time Monaghan (2) Derry (2) and Cavan have won Ulster. There's donegal men with 4 or 5 Ulster medals but with out the big one although obviously that mightn't be the case in 2 weeks time.
In fairness to those Armagh lads they won't be looking at their all Ireland medals thinking if only they had an Ulster medal as well. There is many great footballers on the other hand from many counties who would look at their provincial medals and wish they had won an all Ireland medal.
Similar to Armagh... Clare hurlers Shane O'Donnell and Tony Kelly won All Ireland medals in 2013 and 2024, have never won a provincial medal. Clare's last Munster title 1998.. just saying 🤷
Quote from: SouthDublinBro on July 13, 2025, 11:46:01 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 13, 2025, 11:36:48 PMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 13, 2025, 10:59:05 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 13, 2025, 09:43:53 PMWhoever wins they will be the first team since Cork in 2010 to not automatically qualify for the Quarter Finals and win the All Ireland.
I'm assuming when you say automatically qualify for a quarter final that means having to play a preliminary playoff game or back door game to qualify for the quarter final? Kerry and Donegal both won their provincials which in previous formats like 2010 would have automatically qualified them.
The last 2 years have resulted in two firsts when it come to all Ireland winners. Armagh won the all Ireland last year without winning their provincial championship and without having to play a knockout preliminary/back door knockout game to reach the quarter finals and this years winner will be the first team to win it having won their provincial but having to play a knockout game to reach the quarter finals.
Armagh's All-Ireland was also historic in that none of their players had a provincial winners medal.
It was also historic in that they were officially the weakest team to ever win the All Ireland.
Some said the same about Tyrone in 2021 despite having to beat Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Kerry and mayo to win it. Armagh beat the likes of Derry, Galway and Kerry from the top of my head last year.
But they are nowhere near those strong Kerry or Dublin all Ireland winners in the past who had to beat the likes of Clare/limerick or Louth/offaly to win their provincial and reach a semi final.
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:19:44 AMSimilar to Armagh... Clare hurlers Shane O'Donnell and Tony Kelly won All Ireland medals in 2013 and 2024, have never won a provincial medal. Clare's last Munster title 1998.. just saying 🤷�♂️
The hurling championship has only 2 provincials so with only 2 provincial winners it's more likely for a non provincial to win it. With Clare playing in Munster who have 5 teams all competing for the all Ireland makes it as difficult to win the provincial as it does the all Ireland so it wouldn't be the same comparison.
Quote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 12:35:51 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:19:44 AMSimilar to Armagh... Clare hurlers Shane O'Donnell and Tony Kelly won All Ireland medals in 2013 and 2024, have never won a provincial medal. Clare's last Munster title 1998.. just saying 🤷�♂️
The hurling championship has only 2 provincials so with only 2 provincial winners it's more likely for a non provincial to win it. With Clare playing in Munster who have 5 teams all competing for the all Ireland makes it as difficult to win the provincial as it does the all Ireland so it wouldn't be the same comparison.
It is a similar comparison :D players who have All Ireland medals but not provincial medals. Keep it simple.
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:49:13 AMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 12:35:51 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:19:44 AMSimilar to Armagh... Clare hurlers Shane O'Donnell and Tony Kelly won All Ireland medals in 2013 and 2024, have never won a provincial medal. Clare's last Munster title 1998.. just saying 🤷�♂️
The hurling championship has only 2 provincials so with only 2 provincial winners it's more likely for a non provincial to win it. With Clare playing in Munster who have 5 teams all competing for the all Ireland makes it as difficult to win the provincial as it does the all Ireland so it wouldn't be the same comparison.
It is a similar comparison :D players who have All Ireland medals but not provincial medals. Keep it simple.
I mean it's not the same comparison in terms of how unlikely the chances of it happening in football is in comparison to hurling. In football there's contenders from all 4 provincial championships so to win an all Ireland over all of them despite not winning a provincial in 16 years doesn't compare to Clare not winning a hurling provincial where 2 teams that don't win it are still guaranteed to reach the last 6 of the hurling championship and are only up against 1 other province of teams to win the all Ireland.
Quote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 01:14:25 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:49:13 AMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 12:35:51 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:19:44 AMSimilar to Armagh... Clare hurlers Shane O'Donnell and Tony Kelly won All Ireland medals in 2013 and 2024, have never won a provincial medal. Clare's last Munster title 1998.. just saying 🤷�♂️
The hurling championship has only 2 provincials so with only 2 provincial winners it's more likely for a non provincial to win it. With Clare playing in Munster who have 5 teams all competing for the all Ireland makes it as difficult to win the provincial as it does the all Ireland so it wouldn't be the same comparison.
It is a similar comparison :D players who have All Ireland medals but not provincial medals. Keep it simple.
I mean it's not the same comparison in terms of how unlikely the chances of it happening in football is in comparison to hurling. In football there's contenders from all 4 provincial championships so to win an all Ireland over all of them despite not winning a provincial in 16 years doesn't compare to Clare not winning a hurling provincial where 2 teams that don't win it are still guaranteed to reach the last 6 of the hurling championship and are only up against 1 other province of teams to win the all Ireland.
Ok... I didn't think much bout it. Just strange 2 great players with 2 All Ireland medals and no provincials.
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 01:37:02 AMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 01:14:25 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:49:13 AMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 12:35:51 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:19:44 AMSimilar to Armagh... Clare hurlers Shane O'Donnell and Tony Kelly won All Ireland medals in 2013 and 2024, have never won a provincial medal. Clare's last Munster title 1998.. just saying 🤷�♂️
The hurling championship has only 2 provincials so with only 2 provincial winners it's more likely for a non provincial to win it. With Clare playing in Munster who have 5 teams all competing for the all Ireland makes it as difficult to win the provincial as it does the all Ireland so it wouldn't be the same comparison.
It is a similar comparison :D players who have All Ireland medals but not provincial medals. Keep it simple.
I mean it's not the same comparison in terms of how unlikely the chances of it happening in football is in comparison to hurling. In football there's contenders from all 4 provincial championships so to win an all Ireland over all of them despite not winning a provincial in 16 years doesn't compare to Clare not winning a hurling provincial where 2 teams that don't win it are still guaranteed to reach the last 6 of the hurling championship and are only up against 1 other province of teams to win the all Ireland.
Ok... I didn't think much bout it. Just strange 2 great players with 2 All Ireland medals and no provincials.
In fairness it's still a strange scenario in the those circumstances you mentioned but in armaghs case it almost seems impossible.
I hear Brendan Cawley in line to refereethe final. He used to referee A v B games in O'Connor time as Kildare manager and a Newbridge man like Kerry selector Cian O'Neill albeit different clubs.
2 poor semi finals but at least we have the 2 best teams in the country in the final. Its very hard to call so Im hoping for a good final, I suspect McGuinness may park the bus (all 11 allowed) initially to try and smother Clifford. As we have seen the new rules really help Kerry and think this will help open the game up eventually and could be a real end to end classic as both sides are very well matched.
I find it very difficult to call but with no real confidence I would edge towards Kerry.
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:49:13 AMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 12:35:51 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 14, 2025, 12:19:44 AMSimilar to Armagh... Clare hurlers Shane O'Donnell and Tony Kelly won All Ireland medals in 2013 and 2024, have never won a provincial medal. Clare's last Munster title 1998.. just saying 🤷�♂️
The hurling championship has only 2 provincials so with only 2 provincial winners it's more likely for a non provincial to win it. With Clare playing in Munster who have 5 teams all competing for the all Ireland makes it as difficult to win the provincial as it does the all Ireland so it wouldn't be the same comparison.
It is a similar comparison :D players who have All Ireland medals but not provincial medals. Keep it simple.
It's only unique in gaelic football.
Has happened to Galway and London in hurling.
Quote from: Easttyrone23 on July 14, 2025, 12:23:35 AMQuote from: SouthDublinBro on July 13, 2025, 11:46:01 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 13, 2025, 11:36:48 PMQuote from: Easttyrone23 on July 13, 2025, 10:59:05 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 13, 2025, 09:43:53 PMWhoever wins they will be the first team since Cork in 2010 to not automatically qualify for the Quarter Finals and win the All Ireland.
I'm assuming when you say automatically qualify for a quarter final that means having to play a preliminary playoff game or back door game to qualify for the quarter final? Kerry and Donegal both won their provincials which in previous formats like 2010 would have automatically qualified them.
The last 2 years have resulted in two firsts when it come to all Ireland winners. Armagh won the all Ireland last year without winning their provincial championship and without having to play a knockout preliminary/back door knockout game to reach the quarter finals and this years winner will be the first team to win it having won their provincial but having to play a knockout game to reach the quarter finals.
Armagh's All-Ireland was also historic in that none of their players had a provincial winners medal.
It was also historic in that they were officially the weakest team to ever win the All Ireland.
Some said the same about Tyrone in 2021 despite having to beat Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal, Kerry and mayo to win it. Armagh beat the likes of Derry, Galway and Kerry from the top of my head last year.
But they are nowhere near those strong Kerry or Dublin all Ireland winners in the past who had to beat the likes of Clare/limerick or Louth/offaly to win their provincial and reach a semi final.
The child is best ignored
Quote from: Joeythelips on July 14, 2025, 09:46:47 AM2 poor semi finals but at least we have the 2 best teams in the country in the final. Its very hard to call so Im hoping for a good final, I suspect McGuinness may park the bus (all 11 allowed) initially to try and smother Clifford. As we have seen the new rules really help Kerry and think this will help open the game up eventually and could be a real end to end classic as both sides are very well matched.
I find it very difficult to call but with no real confidence I would edge towards Kerry.
After 2 walkovers in the semi finals I'm really hoping for a good final. I think it will be a great match as both teams are in good form and won't lack in belief.
Kerry are very good and with the Clifford's are very formidable but Donegal are well equipped to deal with them and the process will win it for them. Donegal by 3
Will be on holidays for the final and the lead up to it, so won't get much of a chance to discuss it.
It's a weird feeling though. Delighted to be there, but there's also a tiny bit of melancholy.
We have an excellent squad of players, but is it a whole lot better than, say, the group we had in 02-09? I know you had other two ultra-strong Ulster teams then, and in Tyrone, one of the best of the past 40 years, but it's hard to avoid the fact that so much of this is purely down to McGuinness. What would he have done with a squad featuring many of the players from the 11-12 team, but also with Brendan Devenney and Adrian Sweeney up front along with Colm McFadden (the counter obviously being that a very young Murphy only came into the squad in 07, while McBrearty wasn't around until 11.) .
And the obvious other question being would we be in an AI final now without him?
It's easily possible that Kerry would be with another manager other than Jack O'Connor, impressive and all as his managerial CV is.
But we had a very similar squad in 2022 when Declan Bonner's last season saw miniscule Donegal support, despite us coming so close in Ulster, because people were so fed up with the negative, fearful football Bonner was overseeing. The following season we were a laughing stock whom no one wanted to manage (or in some cases play for) due to the political toxicity within the county.
And the fact is, our two AI wins (as well as our other final appearance), and ten of our twelve UIster titles, were delivered by just two legendary Donegal managers.
So I'm hoping that Jim can conjure up another tactical masterplan to get us over the line, while at the same time also very cognizant that we have to enjoy this thoroughly no matter what, as these days are few and far between, even for a relatively successful county like ours. We might have, by our standards, superb squads of footballers for five years every decade to come, but without a top class manager to harness the talent, chances are it could be two or three decades again before we get back once Jim is gone.
Brendan Cawley Referee.
Kerry to wear their blue jersey for the final.
QuoteKerry to wear their blue jersey for the final.
Shouldn't Donegal wear their white one then?
surely it's either nobody changes or both changes?
Kerry 3 lads in the forwards who not great as actual forwards, Mark O'Shea(Midfielder/ O'Sullivan (Corner back) D Geaney(Just poor). Donegal have a better rounded team and sub bench. Kerry relying on you know who to save the day. Problem with that,is close him down, have they enough elsewhere to win. Had D O'connor, D Moyihan, BD O'Sullivan,P Geaney, and T O'Sullivan be available, might be a total different outlook.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 15, 2025, 02:43:49 PMKerry 3 lads in the forwards who not great as actual forwards, Mark O'Shea(Midfielder/ O'Sullivan (Corner back) D Geaney(Just poor). Donegal have a better rounded team and sub bench. Kerry relying on you know who to save the day. Problem with that,is close him down, have they enough elsewhere to win. Had D O'connor, D Moyihan, BD O'Sullivan,P Geaney, and T O'Sullivan be available, might be a total different outlook.
G O'Sullivan not putting up big scores but excellent playmaker.
Got 5 assists from corner back in the 22 final.
Joe O'Connor has been ripping teams apart. He near needs stopped as much as Clifford.
Donegal the first team to ever win 9 championship games in one season and the first side ever to play an 11th game in a single season.
Kerry played 8 won 7 lost 1 scored 15-175 (220) conceded 4-160 (172) average per game scored 27.5 and conceded 21.5
David Clifford 8-53,Sean O'Shea 1-44 a total of 9-97 (124) Kerry scores without those two 6-78 (96)
Donegal played 10 won 9 lost 1 scored 13-229 (268) and conceded 6-172 (190) average per game scored 27 and conceded 19
Michael Murphy top scorer with 0-44. they have 3 of the top 5 scorers from play in the championship in Conor O'Donnell 3-21, Michael Langan 1-23 qnd Oisin Gallen 1-21.
Last years scoring averages before the final, showing this year with the new rules teams are scoring and conceding a lot more.
Armagh 19 points per game and conceded 14.
Galway 18 points per game and conceded 12.
The bookies and their punters had Galway to win by 1 point the opposite happened, this time they think Kerry to win by 1 point, to be right this time or the opposite to happen again?
Christ I'm surprised Gallen is on that list, albeit the number of games they've played will add to his tally. Has felt very much like a down year for him after the heights of 2024, although he's looked good the last two games now.
Ulster Championship and All-Ireland basically 2 separate tournaments. So hardly relevant, especially since Tyrone beat them negating their 1st place Ulster seeding.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 15, 2025, 03:40:28 PMJoe O'Connor has been ripping teams apart. He near needs stopped as much as Clifford.
Has been imperious
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 15, 2025, 04:26:25 PMUlster Championship and All-Ireland basically 2 separate tournaments. So hardly relevant, especially since Tyrone beat them negating their 1st place Ulster seeding.
To be separate tournaments you wouldn't have seeding for the provincial finalists.
They are separate since 2001 but linked.
The link is getting weaker but still there.
Weaker again next year but not gone.
Quote from: Rossfan on July 15, 2025, 05:57:56 PMThey are separate since 2001 but linked.
The link is getting weaker but still there.
Weaker again next year but not gone.
The Link made weaker is the way HQ have worked their way around in not getting their way to separate the provincial championships from All Ireland series.
Once separate competitions they basically become pre-competitions whereby you won't be getting close to 27k at the Connacht final,66k at the Leinster final and full house at the Ulster final as we got in May.
All those matches/finals I might add were better spectacles for neutrals than the All-Ireland Quarter and semi finals.
Munster though!
The Connacht and Leinster ones were between evenly matched, but not top drawer teams as it turned out.And not much love lost between the teams!
Donegal and Armagh was Ulster Champions vs AI Champions.
Were they better spectacles because they weren't elimination games? Less fear involved?
2024 Connacht Final 19,000. 2024 Leinster one 21k?
Quote from: tiempo on July 15, 2025, 04:51:48 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 15, 2025, 03:40:28 PMJoe O'Connor has been ripping teams apart. He near needs stopped as much as Clifford.
Has been imperious
Most important player for Kerry this year and needs to be stopped if Donegal are to win.
Brian Ó Beaglaoich and Graham O'Sullivan have also been turning in top class performances.
O'beaglaoich has been very important this few years. Plenty of fires to put out for Donegal but then I guess same for Kerry.
I would have Kerry favourites. Honestly think 2014 was one that Donegal really should have been winning, and they lost it tactically really, so I wonder how that sits with mcguinness.
Have my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
In the terms of age profile and championship appearances Donegal are the more experienced side.
Quote from: Rossfan on July 15, 2025, 10:27:13 AMBrendan Cawley Referee.
Will he check in on Murphy every 10mins for cramp again?
Not where it counts in the big games however.
McHugh, McBrearty and Murphy only ones with connection to 2012 AFAIK. You can say semi final last year and this year but Kerry much more seasoned.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 15, 2025, 10:14:50 PMO'beaglaoich has been very important this few years. Plenty of fires to put out for Donegal but then I guess same for Kerry.
I would have Kerry favourites. Honestly think 2014 was one that Donegal really should have been winning, and they lost it tactically really, so I wonder how that sits with mcguinness.
There was nothing won or lost tactically in 2014. The game was chaotic from the start, with both teams making countless errors throughout. Kerry scored two fortuitous goals and showed marginally more composure in the second half. I think they deserved to win but there was nothing in it and it certainly was no tactical masterclass.
There are many misconceptions about that game still floating around 11 years later but the full match is there to watch on YouTube.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 11:25:35 PMNot where it counts in the big games however.
McHugh, McBrearty and Murphy only ones with connection to 2012 AFAIK. You can say semi final last year and this year but Kerry much more seasoned.
McHugh wasn't involved in 2012
Quote from: greatpoint on July 15, 2025, 11:47:18 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 15, 2025, 10:14:50 PMO'beaglaoich has been very important this few years. Plenty of fires to put out for Donegal but then I guess same for Kerry.
I would have Kerry favourites. Honestly think 2014 was one that Donegal really should have been winning, and they lost it tactically really, so I wonder how that sits with mcguinness.
There was nothing won or lost tactically in 2014. The game was chaotic from the start, with both teams making countless errors throughout. Kerry scored two fortuitous goals and showed marginally more composure in the second half. I think they deserved to win but there was nothing in it and it certainly was no tactical masterclass.
There are many misconceptions about that game still floating around 11 years later but the full match is there to watch on YouTube.
Kerry played Donegal at their own game. Donegal couldn't break Kerry blanket defence.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Kerry tactical fouling high up the pitch allows bodies to get back behind the ball. Will Cawley be brave enough to blow closed fist tackles by O'Shea and Clifford's?
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 15, 2025, 11:56:21 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 15, 2025, 11:47:18 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 15, 2025, 10:14:50 PMO'beaglaoich has been very important this few years. Plenty of fires to put out for Donegal but then I guess same for Kerry.
I would have Kerry favourites. Honestly think 2014 was one that Donegal really should have been winning, and they lost it tactically really, so I wonder how that sits with mcguinness.
There was nothing won or lost tactically in 2014. The game was chaotic from the start, with both teams making countless errors throughout. Kerry scored two fortuitous goals and showed marginally more composure in the second half. I think they deserved to win but there was nothing in it and it certainly was no tactical masterclass.
There are many misconceptions about that game still floating around 11 years later but the full match is there to watch on YouTube.
Kerry played Donegal at their own game. Donegal couldn't break Kerry blanket defence.
They had 12 scores to Kerry's 11 and missed their goal chances. Kerry scored their goals off a deflected point attempt and a freak kick out error.
Again, the full match is there to watch.
What colours of jersies will be used here. I'm told that both counties wear the same colours and that will be totally confusing for people with colour problems, blind, or black and white tvs. I think it would be a magnificant gesture if a neighbouting county lent one of them their jerseies for the day.
Quote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 12:03:45 AMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 15, 2025, 11:56:21 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 15, 2025, 11:47:18 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 15, 2025, 10:14:50 PMO'beaglaoich has been very important this few years. Plenty of fires to put out for Donegal but then I guess same for Kerry.
I would have Kerry favourites. Honestly think 2014 was one that Donegal really should have been winning, and they lost it tactically really, so I wonder how that sits with mcguinness.
There was nothing won or lost tactically in 2014. The game was chaotic from the start, with both teams making countless errors throughout. Kerry scored two fortuitous goals and showed marginally more composure in the second half. I think they deserved to win but there was nothing in it and it certainly was no tactical masterclass.
There are many misconceptions about that game still floating around 11 years later but the full match is there to watch on YouTube.
Kerry played Donegal at their own game. Donegal couldn't break Kerry blanket defence.
They had 12 scores to Kerry's 11 and missed their goal chances. Kerry scored their goals off a deflected point attempt and a freak kick out error.
Again, the full match is there to watch.
The 2nd goal was a pure gift to Kerry and proved to be the difference in the end.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 15, 2025, 11:55:04 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 11:25:35 PMNot where it counts in the big games however.
McHugh, McBrearty and Murphy only ones with connection to 2012 AFAIK. You can say semi final last year and this year but Kerry much more seasoned.
McHugh wasn't involved in 2012
Should say 2014 I presume.
2014 final was brutal.
Kerry missed all round them, got 11 scores out of 32 opportunities. Missed at least 2 gilt edged goal chances.
Donegal weren't at the races at all.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 16, 2025, 12:00:32 AMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Kerry tactical fouling high up the pitch allows bodies to get back behind the ball. Will Cawley be brave enough to blow closed fist tackles by O'Shea and Cliffords?
If he's strict on closed fist tackles Murphy wont make it to half time.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2025, 09:41:07 AMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 16, 2025, 12:00:32 AMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Kerry tactical fouling high up the pitch allows bodies to get back behind the ball. Will Cawley be brave enough to blow closed fist tackles by O'Shea and Cliffords?
If he's strict on closed fist tackles Murphy wont make it to half time.
He's the master of the art - and never gets called on it.
I'm torn on this game.
On the one hand Donegal seem relentless at the minute and look like they have the confidence to beat anyone. On the other, they have looked really ordinary at times and even in the Ulster final didn't play overly well. They've had 2 really good halfs of football in the quarter and semi finals but seem slow to get going.
Kerry have been stop start all season, but in true Kerry form didn't really get challenged until the latter stages of the championship. They have that ability to score heavily, have been really strong defensively and have shown depth in the squad while missing players. They have only really shone in the last 2 games too though. Hard to bet against a team with David Clifford who could score 1-6 on a bad day.
It has the makings of a really good game - my head says Kerry by 3 or 4, but I have this niggly feeling that Donegal could sneak it.
Quote from: tbrick18 on July 16, 2025, 10:38:53 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2025, 09:41:07 AMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 16, 2025, 12:00:32 AMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Kerry tactical fouling high up the pitch allows bodies to get back behind the ball. Will Cawley be brave enough to blow closed fist tackles by O'Shea and Cliffords?
If he's strict on closed fist tackles Murphy wont make it to half time.
He's the master of the art - and never gets called on it.
I'm torn on this game.
On the one hand Donegal seem relentless at the minute and look like they have the confidence to beat anyone. On the other, they have looked really ordinary at times and even in the Ulster final didn't play overly well. They've had 2 really good halfs of football in the quarter and semi finals but seem slow to get going.
Kerry have been stop start all season, but in true Kerry form didn't really get challenged until the latter stages of the championship. They have that ability to score heavily, have been really strong defensively and have shown depth in the squad while missing players. They have only really shone in the last 2 games too though. Hard to bet against a team with David Clifford who could score 1-6 on a bad day.
It has the makings of a really good game - my head says Kerry by 3 or 4, but I have this niggly feeling that Donegal could sneak it.
Yeah totally agree. It'll hinge on Clifford, if he plays like he did the last 2 days Kerry should have enough, but if he goes missing Donegal will walk it.
I have to agree I think Kerry might have too much for Donegal on the day. Too many fires to put out from a Donegal perspective.
Unless Donegal can get totally on top at midfield and stay in the game with 20 minutes to go and their bench might have enough if momentum swings their way.
However my head says Kerry by 5 or 6.
We tend to look at the most recent match , but Meath were so poor. Hard to know how good Donegal are from that. They had poor first halves v Louth and Monaghan. Scraped past a disappointing Mayo.
Kerry only won by 6 against a poor enough Tyrone, and only really blitzed Armagh in 15 minutes tbh.
Something has told me all year Donegal will win Sam. McGuinness's second year, Murphy back. The luck is with them , the draws kind, and Murphy has been throwing his weight around all year without being punished.
So it's Donegal for me. They'll probably fall over the line , but they'll win somehow. Hope I'm wrong though.
I remember one of the Dubs v Kerry finals and poor aul Gooch spent half his day running after Philly McMahon, but the new rules allow Clifford to wait and see what comes his way.
Like most here, I think that Donegal have the legs and the system to deal with him (as best anyone can hope to) but there's others who can do damage. Kerry have more of an edge at the back too. They also have the ability to kick longer than most teams so it might pin Donegal back a bit.
On the flip some of the Kerry forwards will need to do more running towards their own goals than usual. You won't get David Clifford doing it, but Seanie O'Shea and Paudie Clifford might be dragged deeper.
Their fitness is insance and Murphy directing it all on the field is huge. They also can get scores from everywhere and their bench is awesome.
It's going to be brilliant.
Had a good chuckle at Eamon Magee describing how they would take turns on running Paddy Bradley up the pitch. Bradley would be wrecked with each Donegal man saying "again Paddy, again!"
There is something great about brutal training with a group of lads, knowing youre pushing to the limit and beyond. I envy the Donegal lads tbh.
Quote from: Captain Scarlet on July 16, 2025, 11:59:11 AMI remember one of the Dubs v Kerry finals and poor aul Gooch spent half his day running after Philly McMahon, but the new rules allow Clifford to wait and see what comes his way.
Like most here, I think that Donegal have the legs and the system to deal with him (as best anyone can hope to) but there's others who can do damage. Kerry have more of an edge at the back too. They also have the ability to kick longer than most teams so it might pin Donegal back a bit.
On the flip some of the Kerry forwards will need to do more running towards their own goals than usual. You won't get David Clifford doing it, but Seanie O'Shea and Paudie Clifford might be dragged deeper.
Their fitness is insance and Murphy directing it all on the field is huge. They also can get scores from everywhere and their bench is awesome.
It's going to be brilliant.
Donegal are as porous at the back as anyone. They've had a serious deal of cards in the AI series so far, Kerry can will very likely cut through them time and time again on Sunday week
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 16, 2025, 12:00:52 PMHad a good chuckle at Eamon Magee describing how they would take turns on running Paddy Bradley up the pitch. Bradley would be wrecked with each Donegal man saying "again Paddy, again!"
There is something great about brutal training with a group of lads, knowing youre pushing to the limit and beyond. I envy the Donegal lads tbh.
When i think of the sessions that went through my hips and knees i consider myself very lucky to never have had a major injury, though the joints are creaking now due to a bit of wear and tear
Gruelling sessions are a thing of beauty if you've got that sort of mania, i catch myself in random places wondering how other normal people would have coped, plenty wouldn't, its a character test that typically pays itself forward in terms of personality and resilience
We ran up Slieve Gullion one Sunday morning during pre-season, as the body dumps blood out of your other organs to prioritise your heart lungs and legs, the stomach contracts and you invariably need a shit, one of the lads had the joy of shitting and vomiting simultaneously as the shock to the system hit, hard to fathom now exactly how fit you were in your prime
I think I'll skip lunch...
Quote from: J70 on July 14, 2025, 03:59:41 PMWill be on holidays for the final and the lead up to it, so won't get much of a chance to discuss it.
It's a weird feeling though. Delighted to be there, but there's also a tiny bit of melancholy.
We have an excellent squad of players, but is it a whole lot better than, say, the group we had in 02-09? I know you had other two ultra-strong Ulster teams then, and in Tyrone, one of the best of the past 40 years, but it's hard to avoid the fact that so much of this is purely down to McGuinness. What would he have done with a squad featuring many of the players from the 11-12 team, but also with Brendan Devenney and Adrian Sweeney up front along with Colm McFadden (the counter obviously being that a very young Murphy only came into the squad in 07, while McBrearty wasn't around until 11.) .
And the obvious other question being would we be in an AI final now without him?
It's easily possible that Kerry would be with another manager other than Jack O'Connor, impressive and all as his managerial CV is.
But we had a very similar squad in 2022 when Declan Bonner's last season saw miniscule Donegal support, despite us coming so close in Ulster, because people were so fed up with the negative, fearful football Bonner was overseeing. The following season we were a laughing stock whom no one wanted to manage (or in some cases play for) due to the political toxicity within the county.
And the fact is, our two AI wins (as well as our other final appearance), and ten of our twelve UIster titles, were delivered by just two legendary Donegal managers.
So I'm hoping that Jim can conjure up another tactical masterplan to get us over the line, while at the same time also very cognizant that we have to enjoy this thoroughly no matter what, as these days are few and far between, even for a relatively successful county like ours. We might have, by our standards, superb squads of footballers for five years every decade to come, but without a top class manager to harness the talent, chances are it could be two or three decades again before we get back once Jim is gone.
Quote from: J70 on July 14, 2025, 03:59:41 PMWill be on holidays for the final and the lead up to it, so won't get much of a chance to discuss it.
It's a weird feeling though. Delighted to be there, but there's also a tiny bit of melancholy.
We have an excellent squad of players, but is it a whole lot better than, say, the group we had in 02-09? I know you had other two ultra-strong Ulster teams then, and in Tyrone, one of the best of the past 40 years, but it's hard to avoid the fact that so much of this is purely down to McGuinness. What would he have done with a squad featuring many of the players from the 11-12 team, but also with Brendan Devenney and Adrian Sweeney up front along with Colm McFadden (the counter obviously being that a very young Murphy only came into the squad in 07, while McBrearty wasn't around until 11.) .
And the obvious other question being would we be in an AI final now without him?
It's easily possible that Kerry would be with another manager other than Jack O'Connor, impressive and all as his managerial CV is.
But we had a very similar squad in 2022 when Declan Bonner's last season saw miniscule Donegal support, despite us coming so close in Ulster, because people were so fed up with the negative, fearful football Bonner was overseeing. The following season we were a laughing stock whom no one wanted to manage (or in some cases play for) due to the political toxicity within the county.
And the fact is, our two AI wins (as well as our other final appearance), and ten of our twelve UIster titles, were delivered by just two legendary Donegal managers.
So I'm hoping that Jim can conjure up another tactical masterplan to get us over the line, while at the same time also very cognizant that we have to enjoy this thoroughly no matter what, as these days are few and far between, even for a relatively successful county like ours. We might have, by our standards, superb squads of footballers for five years every decade to come, but without a top class manager to harness the talent, chances are it could be two or three decades again before we get back once Jim is gone.
A great post. What football means to Donegal. From McEniff to McGuinness. Fáilte go Toraigh Sam Maguire. Máirtín Beag being unable to pay for his dinner in New York.
Quote from: JoG2 on July 16, 2025, 12:07:41 PMQuote from: Captain Scarlet on July 16, 2025, 11:59:11 AMI remember one of the Dubs v Kerry finals and poor aul Gooch spent half his day running after Philly McMahon, but the new rules allow Clifford to wait and see what comes his way.
Like most here, I think that Donegal have the legs and the system to deal with him (as best anyone can hope to) but there's others who can do damage. Kerry have more of an edge at the back too. They also have the ability to kick longer than most teams so it might pin Donegal back a bit.
On the flip some of the Kerry forwards will need to do more running towards their own goals than usual. You won't get David Clifford doing it, but Seanie O'Shea and Paudie Clifford might be dragged deeper.
Their fitness is insance and Murphy directing it all on the field is huge. They also can get scores from everywhere and their bench is awesome.
It's going to be brilliant.
Donegal are as porous at the back as anyone. They've had a serious deal of cards in the AI series so far, Kerry can will very likely cut through them time and time again on Sunday week
Donegal's only real tough game since winning Ulster was the versus Tyrone which they lost. This wont do them any favours when facing Kerry. Murphy has been lucky all year getting away with serious tackles and fouls, most recently taking out the Meath attacker without even so much as a ticking off. His luck might run out in the final.
Kerry wins this one in my opinion.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 12:46:15 PMQuote from: JoG2 on July 16, 2025, 12:07:41 PMQuote from: Captain Scarlet on July 16, 2025, 11:59:11 AMI remember one of the Dubs v Kerry finals and poor aul Gooch spent half his day running after Philly McMahon, but the new rules allow Clifford to wait and see what comes his way.
Like most here, I think that Donegal have the legs and the system to deal with him (as best anyone can hope to) but there's others who can do damage. Kerry have more of an edge at the back too. They also have the ability to kick longer than most teams so it might pin Donegal back a bit.
On the flip some of the Kerry forwards will need to do more running towards their own goals than usual. You won't get David Clifford doing it, but Seanie O'Shea and Paudie Clifford might be dragged deeper.
Their fitness is insance and Murphy directing it all on the field is huge. They also can get scores from everywhere and their bench is awesome.
It's going to be brilliant.
Donegal are as porous at the back as anyone. They've had a serious deal of cards in the AI series so far, Kerry can will very likely cut through them time and time again on Sunday week
Donegal's only real tough game since winning Ulster was the versus Tyrone which they lost. This wont do them any favours when facing Kerry. Murphy has been lucky all year getting away with serious tackles and fouls, most recently taking out the Meath attacker without even so much as a ticking off. His luck might run out in the final.
Kerry wins this one in my opinion.
Guaranteed that the "Kerry Media Mafia" will be all over this in their columns this week and next
Quote from: Estimator on July 16, 2025, 12:51:55 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 12:46:15 PMQuote from: JoG2 on July 16, 2025, 12:07:41 PMQuote from: Captain Scarlet on July 16, 2025, 11:59:11 AMI remember one of the Dubs v Kerry finals and poor aul Gooch spent half his day running after Philly McMahon, but the new rules allow Clifford to wait and see what comes his way.
Like most here, I think that Donegal have the legs and the system to deal with him (as best anyone can hope to) but there's others who can do damage. Kerry have more of an edge at the back too. They also have the ability to kick longer than most teams so it might pin Donegal back a bit.
On the flip some of the Kerry forwards will need to do more running towards their own goals than usual. You won't get David Clifford doing it, but Seanie O'Shea and Paudie Clifford might be dragged deeper.
Their fitness is insance and Murphy directing it all on the field is huge. They also can get scores from everywhere and their bench is awesome.
It's going to be brilliant.
Donegal are as porous at the back as anyone. They've had a serious deal of cards in the AI series so far, Kerry can will very likely cut through them time and time again on Sunday week
Donegal's only real tough game since winning Ulster was the versus Tyrone which they lost. This wont do them any favours when facing Kerry. Murphy has been lucky all year getting away with serious tackles and fouls, most recently taking out the Meath attacker without even so much as a ticking off. His luck might run out in the final.
Kerry wins this one in my opinion.
Guaranteed that the "Kerry Media Mafia" will be all over this in their columns this week and next
It's been talked about as far back as the Ulster preliminary round against Derry. Still, it continues to happen.
Kerry would be correct pointing it out until Sunday week. Any county would do the same
The ageism on display against Murphy is shocking. As you get older neuron firing speed slows, so that explains mistimed tackles. Referees understand this and as an inclusive organisation must give some leeway for the aged.
Michael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Quote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
Every other year Kerry played an Ulster team in the final, the Ulster team seemed to have 100% of the support of the rest of Ulster, (well, maybe a few Derry people were neutral when it was Kerry v Tyrone).
This year it doesn't seem as unanimous.
Quote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2025, 02:45:07 PMEvery other year Kerry played an Ulster team in the final, the Ulster team seemed to have 100% of the support of the rest of Ulster, (well, maybe a few Derry people were neutral when it was Kerry v Tyrone).
This year it doesn't seem as unanimous.
Shows how disliked that Donegal side are. I'd support Tyrone over them.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 02:28:32 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
He's gotten away with some closed fist tackles such as against Derry back in the prelim quarter final. However, it's every time go goes in for a tackle some boys are crying for a red at this stage. Or else crying about him chatting to the ref, as if their own teams don't do the same.
You get tired of it from certain sets of rival supporters, whether it's Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Declan Bonner, pro-Donegal referees. There's always something to whinge about.
But carry on.
Quote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2025, 02:45:07 PMEvery other year Kerry played an Ulster team in the final, the Ulster team seemed to have 100% of the support of the rest of Ulster, (well, maybe a few Derry people were neutral when it was Kerry v Tyrone).
This year it doesn't seem as unanimous.
See a Donegal song doing the rounds, opens with you can forget about your G stands for Geezer, R for Rian O'Neill. Cheeky f**kers
Quote from: bennydorano on July 16, 2025, 04:07:19 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2025, 02:45:07 PMEvery other year Kerry played an Ulster team in the final, the Ulster team seemed to have 100% of the support of the rest of Ulster, (well, maybe a few Derry people were neutral when it was Kerry v Tyrone).
This year it doesn't seem as unanimous.
See a Donegal song doing the rounds, opens with you can forget about your G stands for Geezer, R for Rian O'Neill. Cheeky f**kers
Ah good enough tune in fairness, let them enjoy it.
Quote from: bennydorano on July 16, 2025, 04:07:19 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2025, 02:45:07 PMEvery other year Kerry played an Ulster team in the final, the Ulster team seemed to have 100% of the support of the rest of Ulster, (well, maybe a few Derry people were neutral when it was Kerry v Tyrone).
This year it doesn't seem as unanimous.
See a Donegal song doing the rounds, opens with you can forget about your G stands for Geezer, R for Rian O'Neill. Cheeky f**kers
FFS, living in the US I'd never heard of the G Stands For Geezer I Suppose song before today, now it's lodged in my brain! ;D
Quote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2025, 02:45:07 PMEvery other year Kerry played an Ulster team in the final, the Ulster team seemed to have 100% of the support of the rest of Ulster, (well, maybe a few Derry people were neutral when it was Kerry v Tyrone).
This year it doesn't seem as unanimous.
I'll definitely be fully behind Donegal, and I'd be suprised if there are many Derry Gaels not supporting them. It's weird though, I think people are probably more neutral until it comes to the final, or maybe I'm just an outlier. Last week I wasnt too bothered who won between Kerry and Tyrone, but if that had been the All Ireland final, I'd definitely be supporting Tyrone. Cant really explain it.
Quote from: bennydorano on July 16, 2025, 04:07:19 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2025, 02:45:07 PMEvery other year Kerry played an Ulster team in the final, the Ulster team seemed to have 100% of the support of the rest of Ulster, (well, maybe a few Derry people were neutral when it was Kerry v Tyrone).
This year it doesn't seem as unanimous.
See a Donegal song doing the rounds, opens with you can forget about your G stands for Geezer, R for Rian O'Neill. Cheeky f**kers
Did McFadden-Ferry write that one? Whoever it was, it sounds petty
Quote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 03:35:25 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 02:28:32 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
He's gotten away with some closed fist tackles such as against Derry back in the prelim quarter final. However, it's every time go goes in for a tackle some boys are crying for a red at this stage. Or else crying about him chatting to the ref, as if their own teams don't do the same.
You get tired of it from certain sets of rival supporters, whether it's Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Declan Bonner, pro-Donegal referees. There's always something to whinge about.
But carry on.
You still didn't answer his question ;)
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2025, 04:56:27 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 03:35:25 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 02:28:32 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
He's gotten away with some closed fist tackles such as against Derry back in the prelim quarter final. However, it's every time go goes in for a tackle some boys are crying for a red at this stage. Or else crying about him chatting to the ref, as if their own teams don't do the same.
You get tired of it from certain sets of rival supporters, whether it's Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Declan Bonner, pro-Donegal referees. There's always something to whinge about.
But carry on.
You still didn't answer his question ;)
Noticed that. Side note murphy and ryan mchugh are always crying to the ref at every challenge, glad you picked up on that as well
There were plenty of challenges let go by the referees over the weekend, Kerry in particular seemed to get away with a lot compared to Tyrone. Bit odd to focus on Murphy again.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2025, 04:56:27 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 03:35:25 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 02:28:32 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
He's gotten away with some closed fist tackles such as against Derry back in the prelim quarter final. However, it's every time go goes in for a tackle some boys are crying for a red at this stage. Or else crying about him chatting to the ref, as if their own teams don't do the same.
You get tired of it from certain sets of rival supporters, whether it's Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Declan Bonner, pro-Donegal referees. There's always something to whinge about.
But carry on.
You still didn't answer his question ;)
Closed fist? Of course not.
Anything else?
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 05:05:22 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2025, 04:56:27 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 03:35:25 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 02:28:32 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
He's gotten away with some closed fist tackles such as against Derry back in the prelim quarter final. However, it's every time go goes in for a tackle some boys are crying for a red at this stage. Or else crying about him chatting to the ref, as if their own teams don't do the same.
You get tired of it from certain sets of rival supporters, whether it's Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Declan Bonner, pro-Donegal referees. There's always something to whinge about.
But carry on.
You still didn't answer his question ;)
Noticed that. Side note murphy and ryan mchugh are always crying to the ref at every challenge, glad you picked up on that as well
Listening to Dick Clerkin yesterday when they were discussing this, he specifically mentioned Brian Dooher as someone who was always in the referee's ear when they shared the field. Not a bad thing in Clerkin's view, but evidently the likes of yourself must have squirming in your seat watching it.
Quote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 05:07:42 PMThere were plenty of challenges let go by the referees over the weekend, Kerry in particular seemed to get away with a lot compared to Tyrone. Bit odd to focus on Murphy again.
Jim'll be gone in a couple years. Then we'll return to relative irrelevancy and McGuinness/Murphy/McHugh/Bonner/McFadden-Ferry etc. won't matter as much to them.
A bit like when Ferguson no longer worried about Wenger being a threat.
Quote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 05:38:21 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2025, 04:56:27 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 03:35:25 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 02:28:32 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
He's gotten away with some closed fist tackles such as against Derry back in the prelim quarter final. However, it's every time go goes in for a tackle some boys are crying for a red at this stage. Or else crying about him chatting to the ref, as if their own teams don't do the same.
You get tired of it from certain sets of rival supporters, whether it's Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Declan Bonner, pro-Donegal referees. There's always something to whinge about.
But carry on.
You still didn't answer his question ;)
Closed fist? Of course not.
Anything else?
There's been more than the closed fist challenge. Sundays late challenge on the Meath player for example. Numerous others throughout the championship too
But hey, I'll only be accused of whinging ;)
There was very little in that. Murphy jumped to try to intercept a handpass over his head and caught Rafferty, who was going around him, as he was landing (left hand caught left shoulder). At a stretch, yellow, but it would have been a very soft one. Any other player and no one would have said a thing. Rafferty was straight back onto his feet.
Quote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 05:43:29 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 05:05:22 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2025, 04:56:27 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 03:35:25 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 02:28:32 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
Can you actually not see how he does get away more with bad tackles than other players do? No harm in admitting it when its clearly obvious to everyone. Put it this way if Kerry tackle the Donegal lads the way Michael Murphy tackles opposition players would you be happy with it and say nothing?
He's gotten away with some closed fist tackles such as against Derry back in the prelim quarter final. However, it's every time go goes in for a tackle some boys are crying for a red at this stage. Or else crying about him chatting to the ref, as if their own teams don't do the same.
You get tired of it from certain sets of rival supporters, whether it's Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Declan Bonner, pro-Donegal referees. There's always something to whinge about.
But carry on.
You still didn't answer his question ;)
Noticed that. Side note murphy and ryan mchugh are always crying to the ref at every challenge, glad you picked up on that as well
Listening to Dick Clerkin yesterday when they were discussing this, he specifically mentioned Brian Dooher as someone who was always in the referee's ear when they shared the field. Not a bad thing in Clerkin's view, but evidently the likes of yourself must have squirming in your seat watching it.
Have you watched any donegal games. Murphy and mchugh run huge distances to complain to the ref at every single decision . You obviously cant admit to it
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=vUbjS_hF380&pp=ygUVbWljaGFlbCBtdXJwaHkgdGFja2xl
https://x.com/savo01/status/1908996099760910708?t=O5-lsCJ2X70giGCuL7DRcg&s=08
Lets just admit thst he gets away with stuff other players wouldn't
HUGE distances, EVERY SINGLE decision. Got it.
I don't get to live games these days, but I'll do my best to run your claim past the next relative I meet who does get to go
Quote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 06:25:45 PMThere was very little in that. Murphy jumped to try to intercept a handpass over his head and caught Rafferty, who was going around him, as he was landing (left hand caught left shoulder). At a stretch, yellow, but it would have been a very soft one. Any other player and no one would have said a thing. Rafferty was straight back onto his feet.
https://www.balls.ie/gaa/michael-murphy-incident-donegal-meath-635893
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 16, 2025, 06:35:51 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 06:25:45 PMThere was very little in that. Murphy jumped to try to intercept a handpass over his head and caught Rafferty, who was going around him, as he was landing (left hand caught left shoulder). At a stretch, yellow, but it would have been a very soft one. Any other player and no one would have said a thing. Rafferty was straight back onto his feet.
https://www.balls.ie/gaa/michael-murphy-incident-donegal-meath-635893
I was talking about the dirt element of it, but, yeah, it was borderline in terms of technically being a body check. He definitely caught him. Red, absolutely nowhere even close.
Quote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 06:51:45 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 16, 2025, 06:35:51 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 06:25:45 PMThere was very little in that. Murphy jumped to try to intercept a handpass over his head and caught Rafferty, who was going around him, as he was landing (left hand caught left shoulder). At a stretch, yellow, but it would have been a very soft one. Any other player and no one would have said a thing. Rafferty was straight back onto his feet.
https://www.balls.ie/gaa/michael-murphy-incident-donegal-meath-635893
I was talking about the dirt element of it, but, yeah, it was borderline in terms of technically being a body check. He definitely caught him. Red, absolutely nowhere even close.
Maurice Deegan and the BBC pundits all said it was a black card.
The telling action by Murphy was him immediately putting hands up looking at linesman. No innocent man does that move.
He just let himself follow through and catch Rafferty.
Quote from: Estimator on July 16, 2025, 12:51:55 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 16, 2025, 12:46:15 PMQuote from: JoG2 on July 16, 2025, 12:07:41 PMQuote from: Captain Scarlet on July 16, 2025, 11:59:11 AMI remember one of the Dubs v Kerry finals and poor aul Gooch spent half his day running after Philly McMahon, but the new rules allow Clifford to wait and see what comes his way.
Like most here, I think that Donegal have the legs and the system to deal with him (as best anyone can hope to) but there's others who can do damage. Kerry have more of an edge at the back too. They also have the ability to kick longer than most teams so it might pin Donegal back a bit.
On the flip some of the Kerry forwards will need to do more running towards their own goals than usual. You won't get David Clifford doing it, but Seanie O'Shea and Paudie Clifford might be dragged deeper.
Their fitness is insance and Murphy directing it all on the field is huge. They also can get scores from everywhere and their bench is awesome.
It's going to be brilliant.
Donegal are as porous at the back as anyone. They've had a serious deal of cards in the AI series so far, Kerry can will very likely cut through them time and time again on Sunday week
Donegal's only real tough game since winning Ulster was the versus Tyrone which they lost. This wont do them any favours when facing Kerry. Murphy has been lucky all year getting away with serious tackles and fouls, most recently taking out the Meath attacker without even so much as a ticking off. His luck might run out in the final.
Kerry wins this one in my opinion.
Guaranteed that the "Kerry Media Mafia" will be all over this in their columns this week and next
Quote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 01:34:05 PMMichael Verney, in his podcast with Dick Clerkin and Kevin Cassidy, was talking about the online campaign to influence the referee on Murphy ahead of the final. I guess this board is part of that. There's a few lads here appear a bit obsessed.
J70, ah come on man. If ANY other player in the county was getting away with red and black cards all year it would be the same
The Kerry mafia will be all over it in the media now too even though either Clifford no angel... (David not as bad as Pauline).
Tbh there is dirt in murphy. Some of his tackles he does seem to put in to hurt.
Quote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 05:07:42 PMThere were plenty of challenges let go by the referees over the weekend, Kerry in particular seemed to get away with a lot compared to Tyrone. Bit odd to focus on Murphy again.
(https://i.imgur.com/dWWaX2z.jpeg)
Morris got no card for pulling McHugh to the ground in the same game
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 16, 2025, 09:56:26 PMThe Kerry mafia will be all over it in the media now too even though either Clifford no angel... (David not as bad as Pauline).
Tbh there is dirt in murphy. Some of his tackles he does seem to put in to hurt.
And rightly so. Would you want him in your team? Yes. If he was in your team would you want him doing the same thing? Yea.
McHugh done a swan lake and dive,yes Morris had his arms round him but McHugh made a big deal out of it and ref ended up giving no card at the finish.
Donegal man here , just watched the podcast featuring joe brolly and i feel that he's over stated our chances tbh . Don't think we can shut down that kerry full forward line adequety enough to win the game. I hope i'm wrong about that.
We are a resolutely methodical team built on elabourate hand passing moves and when scores don't come at the end of it we tend to get fustrated ala the galway semi final last year. Just need something a little different for kerry who definatey won;t shoot the number of wides that meath did.
Quote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 10:37:20 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 05:07:42 PMThere were plenty of challenges let go by the referees over the weekend, Kerry in particular seemed to get away with a lot compared to Tyrone. Bit odd to focus on Murphy again.
(https://i.imgur.com/dWWaX2z.jpeg)
Morris got no card for pulling McHugh to the ground in the same game
He didn't pull him to the ground - he pulled him back and then McHigh fell/went to ground.
Another evidence of the badly written GAA rules - it should be a black card offence but the way the rules are written it wasn't a black card offence. Referee got it spot on.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2025, 07:16:48 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 06:51:45 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 16, 2025, 06:35:51 PMQuote from: J70 on July 16, 2025, 06:25:45 PMThere was very little in that. Murphy jumped to try to intercept a handpass over his head and caught Rafferty, who was going around him, as he was landing (left hand caught left shoulder). At a stretch, yellow, but it would have been a very soft one. Any other player and no one would have said a thing. Rafferty was straight back onto his feet.
https://www.balls.ie/gaa/michael-murphy-incident-donegal-meath-635893
I was talking about the dirt element of it, but, yeah, it was borderline in terms of technically being a body check. He definitely caught him. Red, absolutely nowhere even close.
Maurice Deegan and the BBC pundits all said it was a black card.
I thought so too, nt that that matters haha. Dont think it would have a made a difference anyway
Quote from: toby47 on July 16, 2025, 11:01:11 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 16, 2025, 09:56:26 PMThe Kerry mafia will be all over it in the media now too even though either Clifford no angel... (David not as bad as Pauline).
Tbh there is dirt in murphy. Some of his tackles he does seem to put in to hurt.
And rightly so. Would you want him in your team? Yes. If he was in your team would you want him doing the same thing? Yea.
you want them to be hard hitting, which Murphy can be. This year tho he seems to be doing quite a bit of close fist tackling and getting away with it
He's been getting away with closed fist tackling for yrs. Who he think he is? Mattie McGlennan standard tackle!
Paul McGrane was kat for it
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 17, 2025, 08:29:38 AMQuote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 10:37:20 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 05:07:42 PMThere were plenty of challenges let go by the referees over the weekend, Kerry in particular seemed to get away with a lot compared to Tyrone. Bit odd to focus on Murphy again.
(https://i.imgur.com/dWWaX2z.jpeg)
Morris got no card for pulling McHugh to the ground in the same game
He didn't pull him to the ground - he pulled him back and then McHigh fell/went to ground.
Another evidence of the badly written GAA rules - it should be a black card offence but the way the rules are written it wasn't a black card offence. Referee got it spot on.
RTÉ certainly believed he was dragged down.
I'm surprised that Tyrone fans are now content and have no complaints about the refereeing in their game against Kerry last weekend.
Quote from: greatpoint on July 17, 2025, 05:41:51 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 17, 2025, 08:29:38 AMQuote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 10:37:20 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 05:07:42 PMThere were plenty of challenges let go by the referees over the weekend, Kerry in particular seemed to get away with a lot compared to Tyrone. Bit odd to focus on Murphy again.
(https://i.imgur.com/dWWaX2z.jpeg)
Morris got no card for pulling McHugh to the ground in the same game
He didn't pull him to the ground - he pulled him back and then McHigh fell/went to ground.
Another evidence of the badly written GAA rules - it should be a black card offence but the way the rules are written it wasn't a black card offence. Referee got it spot on.
RTÉ certainly believed he was dragged down.
I'm surprised that Tyrone fans are now content and have no complaints about the refereeing in their game against Kerry last weekend.
Ref was horrible to us but cant complain as we are not allowed to. Ref easily cost us 3 points. Never seen a ref pulling back for free when playing advantage after point was already scored.
Tyrone would have been beaten regardless of ref but that feck he has retired. Awful ref even going back to all those dublin games.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 17, 2025, 07:10:41 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 17, 2025, 05:41:51 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 17, 2025, 08:29:38 AMQuote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 10:37:20 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 16, 2025, 05:07:42 PMThere were plenty of challenges let go by the referees over the weekend, Kerry in particular seemed to get away with a lot compared to Tyrone. Bit odd to focus on Murphy again.
(https://i.imgur.com/dWWaX2z.jpeg)
Morris got no card for pulling McHugh to the ground in the same game
He didn't pull him to the ground - he pulled him back and then McHigh fell/went to ground.
Another evidence of the badly written GAA rules - it should be a black card offence but the way the rules are written it wasn't a black card offence. Referee got it spot on.
RTÉ certainly believed he was dragged down.
I'm surprised that Tyrone fans are now content and have no complaints about the refereeing in their game against Kerry last weekend.
Ref was horrible to us but cant complain as we are not allowed to. Ref easily cost us 3 points. Never seen a ref pulling back for free when playing advantage after point was already scored.
Tyrone would have been beaten regardless of ref but that feck he has retired. Awful ref even going back to all those dublin games.
Ref deemed it a throw ball, which is a technical foul - the rule is that if a team with the advantage commits a technical foul while the advantage is ongoing, play is called back for a free where the initial foul occurred.
Kerry win this with a bit to spare. Donegal bate twice by Tyrone this year and Donegal played nobody in QF SF
Yes it'll be a matter of a Kerry misfire which I dont think is likely.
They have plenty of threat outside Clifford and the new rules just suit them.
Id like to see Dylan Geaney keep his place, Paul come on for him and maybe give a final hurrah for the crowd as hes nearing retirement.
Quote from: WT4E on July 17, 2025, 11:01:49 PMKerry win this with a bit to spare. Donegal bate twice by Tyrone this year and Donegal played nobody in QF SF
Doesn't really work that way!
Donegal beat the reigning All Ireland champions (albeit so did Kerry).
Kerry lost to Meath and were very lucky to beat Cork.
All on the day man!
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 17, 2025, 11:29:10 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 17, 2025, 11:01:49 PMKerry win this with a bit to spare. Donegal bate twice by Tyrone this year and Donegal played nobody in QF SF
Doesn't really work that way!
Donegal beat the reigning All Ireland champions (albeit so did Kerry).
Kerry lost to Meath and were very lucky to beat Cork.
All on the day man!
Cork only team to give Kerry a game.
Can't read anything into Meath asJack threw the game. Kerry wanted extra game goung into QF.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2025, 10:57:20 AMQuote from: tbrick18 on July 16, 2025, 10:38:53 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2025, 09:41:07 AMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 16, 2025, 12:00:32 AMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Kerry tactical fouling high up the pitch allows bodies to get back behind the ball. Will Cawley be brave enough to blow closed fist tackles by O'Shea and Cliffords?
If he's strict on closed fist tackles Murphy wont make it to half time.
He's the master of the art - and never gets called on it.
I'm torn on this game.
On the one hand Donegal seem relentless at the minute and look like they have the confidence to beat anyone. On the other, they have looked really ordinary at times and even in the Ulster final didn't play overly well. They've had 2 really good halfs of football in the quarter and semi finals but seem slow to get going.
Kerry have been stop start all season, but in true Kerry form didn't really get challenged until the latter stages of the championship. They have that ability to score heavily, have been really strong defensively and have shown depth in the squad while missing players. They have only really shone in the last 2 games too though. Hard to bet against a team with David Clifford who could score 1-6 on a bad day.
It has the makings of a really good game - my head says Kerry by 3 or 4, but I have this niggly feeling that Donegal could sneak it.
Yeah totally agree. It'll hinge on Clifford, if he plays like he did the last 2 days Kerry should have enough, but if he goes missing Donegal will walk it.
Yes Murphy lethal for it too. I say kerry mafia won't be shy highlighting in coming week.
Kerry lads like Jason Foley like to fall down very dramatically.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 18, 2025, 07:44:47 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 17, 2025, 11:29:10 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 17, 2025, 11:01:49 PMKerry win this with a bit to spare. Donegal bate twice by Tyrone this year and Donegal played nobody in QF SF
Doesn't really work that way!
Donegal beat the reigning All Ireland champions (albeit so did Kerry).
Kerry lost to Meath and were very lucky to beat Cork.
All on the day man!
Cork only team to give Kerry a game.
Can't read anything into Meath asJack threw the game. Kerry wanted extra game goung into QF.
Why would he throw the game when historically teams not topping the group and playing three weeks in a row have struggled?
Quote from: statto on July 18, 2025, 08:37:02 AMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 18, 2025, 07:44:47 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 17, 2025, 11:29:10 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 17, 2025, 11:01:49 PMKerry win this with a bit to spare. Donegal bate twice by Tyrone this year and Donegal played nobody in QF SF
Doesn't really work that way!
Donegal beat the reigning All Ireland champions (albeit so did Kerry).
Kerry lost to Meath and were very lucky to beat Cork.
All on the day man!
Cork only team to give Kerry a game.
Can't read anything into Meath asJack threw the game. Kerry wanted extra game goung into QF.
Why would he throw the game when historically teams not topping the group and playing three weeks in a row have struggled?
Was no throwing of the game. Kerry had injuries and Meath did a number on the Kerry's kick outs which has proved to be blessing in disguise as they were much improved on their own kickout against Tyrone,Armagh.
I think this is a really tight one to call. There's a few pundits getting carried away with Donegal and they could be right. Jimmy has a lot of things going well. They are coming to the boil in good time and if anyone can combat a team like Kerry it's Donegal. I think their score taking is underrated - they have some serious options up front.
Kerry have played better than some have give them credit for. I was at the Armagh game and I thought they were excellent at closing space down for Armagh and the score taking was a level above most others. People thought Tyrone would sort out the spaces Armagh left but by closing down SOS they gave Clifford more room inside. Similar happened against Armagh when they had the purple patch in the 2nd half.
Donegal play a zonal system like Armagh and it didn't work for Armagh against Kerry. Donegal will no doubt tweak the system to ensure it closes more of the Kerry forwards down than Armagh did. Can Kerry give Patton as hard a time as Monaghan did in the 1st half? Can Kerry secure more possession from their own kick outs than they did against Tyrone because Donegal will be more ruthless if they get that amount of turnover ball.
There's a lot of things could go either way - it'll hopefully be a good watch for the neutral.
. This is really good Kerry team and it's not getting the recognition it deserves . Imagine any other county in a final with players showing like paudie Clifford, seanie o Shea , Joe o Connor (form he's found is outstanding ) pace of Gavin white , kick passing of Dylan geaney going unnoticed and then you have for the icing on the cake the most skilful footballer of all time on show . I'd be amazed if Kerry don't win this and maybe with a bit to spare too . Bad news for the rest of us is there's more than this year in this Kerry team .
Yup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
Of course, if the other team puts two much attention on one player than others can have their day. In one Armagh final, Crossmaglen won by a large margin although Jamie Clark only scored 2 or 3, but he assisted in another dozen scores and all the attention on him meant that less famous players could make hay.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Joe Brolly has tipped Donegal to win and given his track record with predictions that is good news for Kerry.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 18, 2025, 10:39:24 PMJoe Brolly has tipped Donegal to win and given his track record with predictions that is good news for Kerry.
I listened to that podcast and agree with Brolly's analysis. I think McGuinness is a remarkable coach where he took Donegal the last time 2011-12-14.. to return and win two Ulsters and so close to reaching the All Ireland final last year .. the rules totally revamped and here he is in the final. Makes for a great contest but I'd go with Brolly on this one.
Quote from: Mario on July 18, 2025, 10:25:52 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Well they won 2022, only for Clifford having a brutal day in 2023 final they'd have won it, could very easily have beaten Armagh in 2024 and then won against Galway so thats 3 in a row. Even 2021 they should have beaten Tyrone.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2025, 01:32:08 AMQuote from: Mario on July 18, 2025, 10:25:52 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Well they won 2022, only for Clifford having a brutal day in 2023 final they'd have won it, could very easily have beaten Armagh in 2024 and then won against Galway so thats 3 in a row. Even 2021 they should have beaten Tyrone.
Should have, could have, would have.
Didn't.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2025, 01:32:08 AMQuote from: Mario on July 18, 2025, 10:25:52 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Well they won 2022, only for Clifford having a brutal day in 2023 final they'd have won it, could very easily have beaten Armagh in 2024 and then won against Galway so thats 3 in a row. Even 2021 they should have beaten Tyrone.
What is all that about? :D
Why should they have beat Tyrone in '21? They didn't...simples 🤷
If Kerry were to play Tyrone ten times in 2021 , they'd of won about 7 or 8 times but there is the flaw in our main competition, it should be a league format not a cup competition .
Quote from: larryin89 on July 19, 2025, 08:48:03 AMIf Kerry were to play Tyrone ten times in 2021 , they'd of won about 7 or 8 times but there is the flaw in our main competition, it should be a league format not a cup competition .
:D if Kerry were good enough they would have beaten Tyrone on the day that it mattered. The format didn't stop Dublin winning six in a row. Daft talk
Quote from: tyroneman on July 19, 2025, 07:36:31 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2025, 01:32:08 AMQuote from: Mario on July 18, 2025, 10:25:52 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Well they won 2022, only for Clifford having a brutal day in 2023 final they'd have won it, could very easily have beaten Armagh in 2024 and then won against Galway so thats 3 in a row. Even 2021 they should have beaten Tyrone.
Should have, could have, would have.
Didn't.
100%. Same as ourselves last year.
Point is this is a very good Kerry team thats been knocking on the door over the last few years but only got over the line once. It's not a stretch to say that they could have won Sam in 2021, 2023 or 2024.
You could argue format but Id argue county setups in general. The amount of energy and commitment is very hard to recreate year after year.
That same group in the 90s would be Harlem Globetrotters.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 19, 2025, 09:33:09 AMYou could argue format but Id argue county setups in general. The amount of energy and commitment is very hard to recreate year after year.
That same group in the 90s would be Harlem Globetrotters.
100%. Shows how freakish that Dublin team was.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2025, 01:32:08 AMQuote from: Mario on July 18, 2025, 10:25:52 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Well they won 2022, only for Clifford having a brutal day in 2023 final they'd have won it, could very easily have beaten Armagh in 2024 and then won against Galway so thats 3 in a row. Even 2021 they should have beaten Tyrone.
A brutal day in the 2023 final? I wouldn't say that
QuoteIf Kerry were to play Tyrone ten times in 2021 , they'd of won about 7 or 8 times but there is the flaw in our main competition, it should be a league format not a cup competition .
Nah, straight knock out for me
league formats only favour big counties with big squads. The underdog wins are some of the most memorable in GAA history , Armagh Tyrone AI wins, Westmeath, Clare 92, Leitrim , Tipperary, Louth this year etc.
What's the point when Dublin and Kerry win every year?
Not convinced that the Donegal players are all that talented, certainly not compared with Kerry. If McGuinness was in charge of any other Ulster county and had them buy into his professional training and mentality courses, they would likely be competing at the top also.
We've already seen one relatively poor team win an All Ireland last year off the back of having better conditioning than the more talented losers, would be a shame to see it happen twice.
QuoteNot convinced that the Donegal players are all that talented, certainly not compared with Kerry. If McGuinness was in charge of any other Ulster county and had them buy into his professional training and mentality courses, they would likely be competing at the top also.
We've already seen one relatively poor team win an All Ireland last year off the back of having better conditioning than the more talented losers, would be a shame to see it happen twice.
If the losers were more talented, why didn't they win?
because Shane Walsh shat the togs on the big occasion.
Quotebecause Shane Walsh shat the togs on the big occasion.
They weren't the more talented then
That's like the earlier argument about Kerry should be going for 7 All Ireland's in a row if it wasn't for their pesky opponents performing better and scoring more than them
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2025, 01:32:08 AMQuote from: Mario on July 18, 2025, 10:25:52 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Well they won 2022, only for Clifford having a brutal day in 2023 final they'd have won it, could very easily have beaten Armagh in 2024 and then won against Galway so thats 3 in a row. Even 2021 they should have beaten Tyrone.
Quote from: tonto1888 on July 19, 2025, 12:10:03 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2025, 01:32:08 AMQuote from: Mario on July 18, 2025, 10:25:52 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 18, 2025, 10:04:34 PMYup the focus on Clifford takes the shine off the supporting cast.
Its a great Kerry team and but for a few hiccups could easily be on hunt for 4th Sam as a group.
How did you get 4
Well they won 2022, only for Clifford having a brutal day in 2023 final they'd have won it, could very easily have beaten Armagh in 2024 and then won against Galway so thats 3 in a row. Even 2021 they should have beaten Tyrone.
A brutal day in the 2023 final? I wouldn't say that
They were very lucky to even get to the 2023 final.
Kerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
QuoteKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
Very fortunate. They wouldn't have won if CO'C played. They literally fell over the line that day.
Quote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
A bounce of a ball in 2 or 3 games and they could be but whatever.
Mad to think they've only won 2 in the last 15. Most people would have thought those brilliant minor teams around Cliffords age would have won more seniors by now, although those boys are probably hitting their peak years now and who knows might win a few in the coming years.
The Kerry U18 All Ireland winning final teams and U17 winning team in 2018
2014: S Ryan; B O Beaglaoich, D O'Donoghue, C Coffey; B Sugrue, A Barry, T O'Sullivan; B O'Sullivan, M O'Connor; M Burns, B Rayle, M Flaherty; K Spillane, L Kearney, T O Se. Subs: L Carey, J Kiely, R Wharton, S O'Sullivan, I Parker.
2015: B Courtney; D Brosnan, J Foley, T O'Sullivan; J Morgan, A Barry, G White; M O'Connor, J M Foley; B O Seanachain, S O'Shea, B Barrett; M Foley, B Sweeney, C Geaney. Subs: S O'Sullivan, J Duggan, M Breen, D O'Brien, D O Se, G O'Sullivan.
2016: B Courtney; D Naughten, N Collins, G O'Sullivan; M Potts, D O'Brien, M Foley; M Breen, M Ryan; D Moynihan, S O'Shea, D O'Connor; D Clifford, D Shaw, B Friel. Subs: C Linnane, C Teahan, B Sweeney, K Dwyer, S Okunbor.
2017: D Uosis; S O'Leary, C O'Donoghue, C Gammell; P Warren, M Potts, N Donohue; B Mahony, D O'Connor; A Donoghue, D Clifford, Donal O'Sullivan; F Clifford, J Griffin, B Friel. Subs: E Horan, Donnchadh O'Sullivan, C O'Reilly, M O'Leary, R O'Neill, M Slattery.
2018: M Kelliher; C Flannery, O Fitzgerald, D Mangan; C Moriarty, D McCarthy, D Murphy; D Rahilly, D Lyne; P Walsh, P O'Shea, K Falvey; D Geaney, P D'Arcy, M Lenihan. Subs: R O Beaglaioch, K O'Donoghue, J Kennelly, J O'Connor.
Some nonsense on here the day.. shuda wuda diddly-dee... I'd say one of most most successful batch minors to come through was Tyrone 1997/98 onto U21 winners 2000/2001 then senior All Ireland wins with a few 2001 minors joining that.
If alls to be believed Tyrone will have some senior AIs on the way soon 3 of the last 4 U20 All Ireland titles... doesn't always work that way tho.
Only if they had consistent management a la Harte with the minors. Way it should be done
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 19, 2025, 05:18:59 PMOnly if they had consistent management a la Harte with the minors. Way it should be done
He did well with a royal flush of players .. Canavan, Lawn, Dooher, Cavlan waiting on incredible talent coming through... Devine, MacAnnallen, Jordan, Cavanagh, Mugsy, O'Neill, McGuigan...
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 19, 2025, 05:24:20 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 19, 2025, 05:18:59 PMOnly if they had consistent management a la Harte with the minors. Way it should be done
He did well with a royal flush of players .. Canavan, Lawn, Dooher, Cavlan waiting on incredible talent coming through... Devine, MacAnnallen, Jordan, Cavanagh, Mugsy, O'Neill, McGuigan...
Under his guidance they became that.
Quote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
Do people actually believe these alternate history theories? They're laughable.
I've seen Kerry supporters saying it but why anyone else would is beyond me.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 19, 2025, 05:32:01 PMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 19, 2025, 05:24:20 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 19, 2025, 05:18:59 PMOnly if they had consistent management a la Harte with the minors. Way it should be done
He did well with a royal flush of players .. Canavan, Lawn, Dooher, Cavlan waiting on incredible talent coming through... Devine, MacAnnallen, Jordan, Cavanagh, Mugsy, O'Neill, McGuigan...
Under his guidance they became that.
Considering he'd been minor manager since 1991 with little success it may have been down to the calibre of that exception 97/98 batch coming through...
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2025, 03:18:54 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
A bounce of a ball in 2 or 3 games and they could be but whatever.
Mad to think they've only won 2 in the last 15. Most people would have thought those brilliant minor teams around Cliffords age would have won more seniors by now, although those boys are probably hitting their peak years now and who knows might win a few in the coming years.
Or another way to look at it, Kerry have only won 8 from the last 38. That's a fairly poor return for the supposed aristocrats of Gaelic Football
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2025, 12:31:36 PMQuoteNot convinced that the Donegal players are all that talented, certainly not compared with Kerry. If McGuinness was in charge of any other Ulster county and had them buy into his professional training and mentality courses, they would likely be competing at the top also.
We've already seen one relatively poor team win an All Ireland last year off the back of having better conditioning than the more talented losers, would be a shame to see it happen twice.
If the losers were more talented, why didn't they win?
It's best to ignore that tube
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 19, 2025, 06:27:23 PMQuote from: Captain Obvious on July 19, 2025, 05:32:01 PMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 19, 2025, 05:24:20 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 19, 2025, 05:18:59 PMOnly if they had consistent management a la Harte with the minors. Way it should be done
He did well with a royal flush of players .. Canavan, Lawn, Dooher, Cavlan waiting on incredible talent coming through... Devine, MacAnnallen, Jordan, Cavanagh, Mugsy, O'Neill, McGuigan...
Under his guidance they became that.
Considering he'd been minor manager since 1991 with little success it may have been down to the calibre of that exception 97/98 batch coming through...
The true success at underage level is how many of those players are guided along to become established senior inter county players and all of those players became what they were under Mickey Hartes guidance something no Tyrone person should ever underestimate.
Quote from: SouthDublinBro on July 19, 2025, 12:27:36 PMNot convinced that the Donegal players are all that talented, certainly not compared with Kerry. If McGuinness was in charge of any other Ulster county and had them buy into his professional training and mentality courses, they would likely be competing at the top also.
We've already seen one relatively poor team win an All Ireland last year off the back of having better conditioning than the more talented losers, would be a shame to see it happen twice.
I don't agree with you there now on Donegal.
Very talented squad on average. They mightn't have a Clifford but they've had a very talented squad for years now that has underachievered
Quote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
These days Con O'Callaghan gets a better reputation from the games he misses than the games he plays in.
2021: Terrible performance from Con in loss to Mayo
2022: Con O'Callaghan misses the Kerry-Dublin semi-final. The expert opinion: "Kerry only won because Con was missing".
2023: Con O'Callaghan plays in the final, stinks the place up, failing to score.
2024: Mediocre performance from Con as Dublin lose to Galway
2025: Every game Con plays in - Mediocre to poor.
Every game Con doesn't play in - "Dublin lacklustre without Con"
Quote from: blanketattack on July 19, 2025, 09:41:58 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
These days Con O'Callaghan gets a better reputation from the games he misses than the games he plays in.
2021: Terrible performance from Con in loss to Mayo
2022: Con O'Callaghan misses the Kerry-Dublin semi-final. The expert opinion: "Kerry only won because Con was missing".
2023: Con O'Callaghan plays in the final, stinks the place up, failing to score.
2024: Mediocre performance from Con as Dublin lose to Galway
2025: Every game Con plays in - Mediocre to poor.
Every game Con doesn't play in - "Dublin lacklustre without Con"
Agree Con is overrated. Would get nowhere this Kerry team.
So you think Dylan geaney is better than him. Right...
He hasn't been that poor this year either. Few good games in him.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 19, 2025, 10:52:21 PMSo you think Dylan geaney is better than him. Right...
He hasn't been that poor this year either. Few good games in him.
Dylan Geaney will be a top player. Will see his worth next Sunday.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 19, 2025, 10:49:47 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 19, 2025, 09:41:58 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
These days Con O'Callaghan gets a better reputation from the games he misses than the games he plays in.
2021: Terrible performance from Con in loss to Mayo
2022: Con O'Callaghan misses the Kerry-Dublin semi-final. The expert opinion: "Kerry only won because Con was missing".
2023: Con O'Callaghan plays in the final, stinks the place up, failing to score.
2024: Mediocre performance from Con as Dublin lose to Galway
2025: Every game Con plays in - Mediocre to poor.
Every game Con doesn't play in - "Dublin lacklustre without Con"
Agree Con is overrated. Would get nowhere this Kerry team.
Not overrated, was Matt O'Connor-esque from 2017-2020 but hasn't hit anywhere those heights since.
A false narrative going around that Dublin would have won in 2022 if Con wasn't injured, yet his performances in 21 and 23+ don't support this
Quote from: blanketattack on July 19, 2025, 11:26:51 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 19, 2025, 10:49:47 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 19, 2025, 09:41:58 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
These days Con O'Callaghan gets a better reputation from the games he misses than the games he plays in.
2021: Terrible performance from Con in loss to Mayo
2022: Con O'Callaghan misses the Kerry-Dublin semi-final. The expert opinion: "Kerry only won because Con was missing".
2023: Con O'Callaghan plays in the final, stinks the place up, failing to score.
2024: Mediocre performance from Con as Dublin lose to Galway
2025: Every game Con plays in - Mediocre to poor.
Every game Con doesn't play in - "Dublin lacklustre without Con"
Agree Con is overrated. Would get nowhere this Kerry team.
Not overrated, was Matt O'Connor-esque from 2017-2020 but hasn't hit anywhere those heights since.
A false narrative going around that Dublin would have won in 2022 if Con wasn't injured, yet his performances in 21 and 23+ don't support this
Then back to win an All Ireland football club title last year to add to the two hurling he has won. Not bad going...
Quote from: blanketattack on July 19, 2025, 09:41:58 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
These days Con O'Callaghan gets a better reputation from the games he misses than the games he plays in.
2021: Terrible performance from Con in loss to Mayo
2022: Con O'Callaghan misses the Kerry-Dublin semi-final. The expert opinion: "Kerry only won because Con was missing".
2023: Con O'Callaghan plays in the final, stinks the place up, failing to score.
2024: Mediocre performance from Con as Dublin lose to Galway
2025: Every game Con plays in - Mediocre to poor.
Every game Con doesn't play in - "Dublin lacklustre without Con"
Con played most of football at centre forward since 2020 probably why scoring stats have dropped off from play.
Also had a lot of injuries since then after a bad challenge by in club hurling championship game in late 2019.
He has been good since that year too. The year them and Derry met in the division two final he was unplayable. I think that was the year they were beat by Kerry and he was very good that year.(2022?)
He would walk on any team in the country when fit.
But point is he's never fit, he was sore on us in Newry but picked up 2 handy points from Derry never winning a throw up ball.
Hopefully one of the all ireland finals will be half decent
I thought the hurling was a great watch, I know it turned into a procession after the 3rd quarter but the skill levels on display were incredible. Tipps stickwork was some of the best I have ever seen.
I think the football will also be a good game if Kerry don't wilt under Donegal pressure like Cork did against Tipp. The 2 pointer really helps open it up now in football so if Donegal are 5 or so points ahead they cant just park the bus to ensure no goals are conceded and hit Kerry on the break (although their tactics will be a similar) the 2 pointer & having to have players in one half forces them to open up more. I am hoping for a classic.
Quote from: Joeythelips on July 21, 2025, 09:05:03 AMI thought the hurling was a great watch, I know it turned into a procession after the 3rd quarter but the skill levels on display were incredible. Tipps stickwork was some of the best I have ever seen.
I think the football will also be a good game if Kerry don't wilt under Donegal pressure like Cork did against Tipp. The 2 pointer really helps open it up now in football so if Donegal are 5 or so points ahead they cant just park the bus to ensure no goals are conceded and hit Kerry on the break (although their tactics will be a similar) the 2 pointer & having to have players in one half forces them to open up more. I am hoping for a classic.
Don't know about that now.
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 19, 2025, 11:37:18 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 19, 2025, 11:26:51 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 19, 2025, 10:49:47 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 19, 2025, 09:41:58 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 19, 2025, 01:58:46 PMKerry also fortunate that Conn O'Callaghan missed the semi-final in 2022.
Absolute nonsense being put out there that Kerry could be going for 4 or 5 in a row.
They've 2 titles out of the last 15, that's it. Could's, Should's, If's and Maybe's don't count.
These days Con O'Callaghan gets a better reputation from the games he misses than the games he plays in.
2021: Terrible performance from Con in loss to Mayo
2022: Con O'Callaghan misses the Kerry-Dublin semi-final. The expert opinion: "Kerry only won because Con was missing".
2023: Con O'Callaghan plays in the final, stinks the place up, failing to score.
2024: Mediocre performance from Con as Dublin lose to Galway
2025: Every game Con plays in - Mediocre to poor.
Every game Con doesn't play in - "Dublin lacklustre without Con"
Agree Con is overrated. Would get nowhere this Kerry team.
Not overrated, was Matt O'Connor-esque from 2017-2020 but hasn't hit anywhere those heights since.
A false narrative going around that Dublin would have won in 2022 if Con wasn't injured, yet his performances in 21 and 23+ don't support this
Then back to win an All Ireland football club title last year to add to the two hurling he has won. Not bad going...
Has been good at club level alright but not to the same extent as before. Cuala are a much more balanced team than Dublin so don't need him to shoot the lights out.
Injuries have blighted his career over the last 4 years. A lot due to overplaying different sports at a young age I'd imagine. Was playing on 6 different teams at one stage.
The closer it gets the more I have a feeling for Donegal, even though I was locked in for Kerry after the semis. This is going to be a cracker!
I hope the weather is better than the hurling because a dry ball will make a huge difference.
May it be a good day.
May it be a good game
May the best team win, which will hopefully be Donegal.
If Kerry play to their potential, like their very best , am I alone in thinking they could give Donegal a right tanking ?
For once I think the Munster kingpins are going into this game more battle hardened than the Ulster kingpins.
Donegal have cantered to the final through no fault of their own, getting a very favourable draw along the way. Kerry meanwhile have taken out the All Ireland champions and a team that has already beaten donegal relatively recently.
My heart says Donegal but my head says Kerry fairly comfortably unless Jimmy is hatching a tactical masterclass.
Quote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 11:52:44 AMIf Kerry play to their potential, like their very best , am I alone in thinking they could give Donegal a right tanking ?
If Donegal play their worst, like their very worst, then you are probably right.
Quote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 11:52:44 AMIf Kerry play to their potential, like their very best , am I alone in thinking they could give Donegal a right tanking ?
I dunno. I think it's more likely to be the other way round. But like Cork hurlers, their big Semi win probably left everyone thinking they were sure to win the final. So Donegal's big semi win might do them no favours in that regard .
After this final we'll either be talking about bringing back Murphy was a McGuinness masterstroke, or bringing back Murphy was a reek of desperation, the last desperate throw of the dice.... and what was he thinking, hoping a 36 year old would
be the difference.
I'm hoping it's the latter
Donegals organisation is impressive, they did seem to kick up the gears even when the game was over. Similar to Cork in semi final, when they were contesting ball furiously well past third quarter.
Bad history of these types of performances when "everything goes well" even against poor opposition.
Id imagine there'll be a few "accidental" collisions with key players.
The difference here is that both had easy enough wins in the semi final so one win shouldn't give reason for complacency more than another. Kerry's was an impressive win too.
Kerry need to not do a Cork. They basically hammer everyone when everything is rosy but when it gets into a dogfight they can be found wanting. (Not always but more typically against ulster opposition in tight games).
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 21, 2025, 12:27:01 PMQuote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 11:52:44 AMIf Kerry play to their potential, like their very best , am I alone in thinking they could give Donegal a right tanking ?
If Donegal play their worst, like their very worst, then you are probably right.
Yeah would need to be a system meltdown by Donegal.
This final all points to a fine margin contest whereby might even require extra time. Need a good final after the one sided semi-finals and none of the quarter finals were classics either.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 21, 2025, 01:35:18 PMQuote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 21, 2025, 12:27:01 PMQuote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 11:52:44 AMIf Kerry play to their potential, like their very best , am I alone in thinking they could give Donegal a right tanking ?
If Donegal play their worst, like their very worst, then you are probably right.
Yeah would need to be a system meltdown by Donegal.
This final all points to a fine margin contest whereby might even require extra time. Need a good final after the one sided semi-finals and none of the quarter finals were classics either.
What is a system meltdown ? If Clifford and seanie o Shea run absolute riot and Kerry win by 7/8 points is that a system meltdown or just simply the best players in the country showing what they can do ? Look I'm wrong more than I'm right but I just feel people have taken their eye off the ball in recent years and created a lot of hyperbole about decent sides that are not exceptional sides , Armagh / Galway / Derry and now Donegal . Armagh smashed and grabbed a Sam and deservedly so but like I say a lot of commotion created over the greatness of these sides and it's just not really there . Where as Kerry have that ceiling! again just my opinion where they could go on and win a couple more at least .
Whatever about David Clifford but if Seanie O'Shea is running absolute riot against you, you are doing something wrong.
Armagh will look back on their management of Seanie O'Shea with a fair bit of embarrassment.
Also, as "amazing" as Kerry are, they don't set the world alight. Maybe you are creating a bit of commotion there yourself.
Quote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 01:56:30 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 21, 2025, 01:35:18 PMQuote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 21, 2025, 12:27:01 PMQuote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 11:52:44 AMIf Kerry play to their potential, like their very best , am I alone in thinking they could give Donegal a right tanking ?
If Donegal play their worst, like their very worst, then you are probably right.
Yeah would need to be a system meltdown by Donegal.
This final all points to a fine margin contest whereby might even require extra time. Need a good final after the one sided semi-finals and none of the quarter finals were classics either.
What is a system meltdown ? If Clifford and seanie o Shea run absolute riot and Kerry win by 7/8 points is that a system meltdown or just simply the best players in the country showing what they can do ? Look I'm wrong more than I'm right but I just feel people have taken their eye off the ball in recent years and created a lot of hyperbole about decent sides that are not exceptional sides , Armagh / Galway / Derry and now Donegal . Armagh smashed and grabbed a Sam and deservedly so but like I say a lot of commotion created over the greatness of these sides and it's just not really there . Where as Kerry have that ceiling! again just my opinion where they could go on and win a couple more at least .
I'm expecting at least one of S O'Shea,D Clifford to have a good scoring return on Sunday but for both to run riot would go against to what I've seen from a McGuinness managed Donegal in All-Ireland semi final or final before.
Get what you are saying about ceiling though let's not forget Kerry have won two All-Ireland titles in the last 15 years for a reason and even those wins was fine margins.
Most neutrals will want to see Kerry win the final. It'll be the best result for gaelic football and hopefully will add another into the coffin of the old game.
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 04:26:16 PMMost neutrals will want to see Kerry win the final. It'll be the best result for gaelic football and hopefully will add another into the coffin of the old game.
Had the misfortune to attend the 2014 All Ireland final when Kerry beat Donegal. Absolutely dire with Kerry just as defensive. The rule makers have driven the nails into the coffin of the old game. Jimmy McGuinness can play it anyway you like. Hope Donegal win. A 'neutral..
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 04:26:16 PMMost neutrals will want to see Kerry win the final. It'll be the best result for gaelic football and hopefully will add another into the coffin of the old game.
31 counties will be shouting for Donegal. Waterford and Tipperary might have a few shouting for Kerry but that's probably it.
Quote from: blanketattack on July 21, 2025, 05:40:39 PMQuote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 04:26:16 PMMost neutrals will want to see Kerry win the final. It'll be the best result for gaelic football and hopefully will add another into the coffin of the old game.
31 counties will be shouting for Donegal. Waterford and Tipperary might have a few shouting for Kerry but that's probably it.
Kerry all the way. Donegal have got to the stage with me where I'd have supported Tyrone over them lol.
Well this neutral will be wanting a Kerry victory and wouldn't be that fond of them either .
Quote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 06:52:02 PMWell this neutral will be wanting a Kerry victory and wouldn't be that fond of them either .
That would be my position too
Donegal for me. This "best result for Gaelic football" notion is nauseating.
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 04:26:16 PMMost neutrals will want to see Kerry win the final. It'll be the best result for gaelic football and hopefully will add another into the coffin of the old game.
You'll need to elaborate a little further as to how and why Kerry winning 39th Senior All Ireland title is the best result for gaelic football.
"Old game" is gone I'd focus on the present and hope it's a good quality contest on Sunday which would be improvement on the majority of knock out games in this years championship.
In years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 09:10:28 PMIn years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
File under: 'things that didn't happen'
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 09:10:28 PMIn years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
Pat Spillane cringes when he looks back on his "Puke football" comments and openly admits that he just didn't like Kerry being beaten so he started blaming stuff.
This is similar. When Kerry teams of yesteryear hand passed the ball up the field when others didn't and beat all in front of them, it was innovative, skill, craft, typical Kerry class. When a team like Donegal do something that works for them, they've ruined football.
And people fall for this nonsense.
Definitely looking forward to this one as it's hard to call. The football has generally been really good this year apart from the semifinals. With the hurling final being poor enough I think we're set for a great football final. I honestly can't call this one, Donegal will definitely have a plan for clifford and kerry will try to nullify murphy.
Spillane led the charge about last years All Ireland final. It was as if these new rules were drastically needed just because we had a very cagey final. And he spoke about the seagull being the most interesting thing on the day. A lot of finals stink the place out. Had Kerry won last year's final I doubt he'd have said that. So like 2003, maybe it was sour grapes that Kerry didn't win it
Fitzmaurice supposedly carried out an absolute tactical masterclass in 2014. It was probably the worst final in living memory but it was this "tactical masterclass" because Kerry won it. In reality, a bad kick out decided the game. With Donegal hitting the post late on to draw it.
So, like Duine said above, certain years are viewed through different coloured glasses , depending on the winner
Papa Durcan's howler was the difference in 2014.
Of course Spillane views football through green and gold glasses but most people I know who have played the game and still love football want to see Kerry win for footballs sake. Kerry arent going to kick the ball into a packed defence for Donegal to turn them over and hit them on the counter and lose the final because of it. They may may have to get down into the gutter and mirror Donegal's muck. .
That is how Kerry won in 2014 - mirrored Donegal and mcguinness struggled to deal with it tactically. (Only time he has ever struggled might I add).
Donegal aren't exactly the enemy of football. Still play some good stuff.
The rules had to be changed because of the way Donegal played. The disease spread throughout the country Thats how bad it was. They arent much different today
Such a mind boggling lazy narrative.
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 10:11:50 PMThe rules had to be changed because of the way Donegal played. The disease spread throughout the country Thats how bad it was. They arent much different today
The rules were changed because of how all the teams were playing, right through club football as well. It was dire. No doubt McGuinness had a huge influence in introducing that.
Not sure that they aren't much different today. With the rules is it even possible to play like that now?
Have you a clue what you're talking about? :o
The problem was never really the rules per se but the Runaway "professionalism". When people have so much invested financially and otherwise, risk management becomes the mantra.
The new rules create a degree of respite & maybe the way to win will be to play to the rules strengths.
However if Donegal win playing precisely like the Dubs did then will it be bad? Scoring percentage points with large range of scorers?
No one wants to tackle the "professionalism" because there's too many benefiting. God I love the amateur game!
There are hundreds of thousands made every year from coaching, managers, trainers, etc. Backroom staff? Listen to the analysists in the media. All getting paid to explain to us how complicated the modern game is. Of course its all bullshit. These parasites make a lot of money from this and it has ruined our game
Am I the only one who thinks the football has been a huge improvement this year?... enjoyable.
Nothing can be done about games being one-sided as the semi-finals were. We've always had that.
Club football much better, underage championships were good..
Maybe some people's default position is negative.. or Gaelic football isn't for them.
Michael Murphy can field a high ball, he usually looks up and can give a good pass. He can shoot. Its very simple really. Mcguiness bringing him back a masterstroke? Er... no. Its simple football. He knew that most of the other robots playing these days arent coached to do the simple basic skills so the oldest man playing stands out a mile in the modern game. What does that tell you about how far the game has fallen?
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 09:10:28 PMIn years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
So you are living off the fantasy that Kerry are a lovely kick passing team?
The FRC dream was to make the game more of kick-pass game. In reality the team that kicked most during this championship was Meath who got almighty hammering in the semi final and the "through the hands" football remains king with Kerry and Donegal the primary exponents.
Football has been an improvement purely due to the 3v3 rule artificially opening a hole in defences that lends itself to more scores being scored.
Meath are a young inexperienced team and were unlucky with too many wides however they will improve with given time. To be honest watching the special Olympics is more entertaining than watching Donegal
Jordan Morris got Menton injured with a poor kick pass. Again, back to risk.
Joyce didnt allow his Galway players to take risks. Sideways passing, possession football etc. A team full of great players who have had their careers wasted because of a stupid manager who was afraid to take a risks.
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 10:58:37 PMMeath are a young inexperienced team and were unlucky with too many wides however they will improve with given time. To be honest watching the special Olympics is more entertaining than watching Donegal
You're on a roll tonite :D insulting disabled athletes now..
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 21, 2025, 10:51:08 PMQuote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 09:10:28 PMIn years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
So you are living off the fantasy that Kerry are a lovely kick passing team?
The FRC dream was to make the game more of kick-pass game. In reality the team that kicked most during this championship was Meath who got almighty hammering in the semi final and the "through the hands" football remains king with Kerry and Donegal the primary exponents.
The Kerry people in the media constantly tell us this and it is being absorbed. They have one amazing player who plays off the cuff but the rest are as sidewards, backwards and risk free as anyone else.
Indeed, Paudie Clifford was arguably their most influential player for most of this season. You'd nearly mistake him for a Jim McGuinness Donegal player.
Get the name of an early riser......
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 21, 2025, 06:59:13 PMQuote from: larryin89 on July 21, 2025, 06:52:02 PMWell this neutral will be wanting a Kerry victory and wouldn't be that fond of them either .
That would be my position too
likewise
Quote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 10:47:18 PMMichael Murphy can field a high ball, he usually looks up and can give a good pass. He can shoot. Its very simple really. Mcguiness bringing him back a masterstroke? Er... no. Its simple football. He knew that most of the other robots playing these days arent coached to do the simple basic skills so the oldest man playing stands out a mile in the modern game. What does that tell you about how far the game has fallen?
The majority of what Murphy is doing this year is winning the ball and laying it off with a pop handpass. The new rules benefit him because he's not relentlessly working up and down the field the way he used to have to, not because they showcase his undeniable skills any more than previous.
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 22, 2025, 06:41:14 AMQuote from: Captain Obvious on July 21, 2025, 10:51:08 PMQuote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 09:10:28 PMIn years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
So you are living off the fantasy that Kerry are a lovely kick passing team?
The FRC dream was to make the game more of kick-pass game. In reality the team that kicked most during this championship was Meath who got almighty hammering in the semi final and the "through the hands" football remains king with Kerry and Donegal the primary exponents.
The Kerry people in the media constantly tell us this and it is being absorbed. They have one amazing player who plays off the cuff but the rest are as sidewards, backwards and risk free as anyone else.
Indeed, Paudie Clifford was arguably their most influential player for most of this season. You'd nearly mistake him for a Jim McGuinness Donegal player.
Get the name of an early riser......
Colm Parkinson is their biggest cheerleader gets on my nerves now.
I'm a Down man and backing Donegal on Sunday. Top class team and in Jim McGuinness, they have the best manager in the country. Have some wonderful players and he just makes it all click and brings it together nicely.
Due to Love Ulster allegience I shall also be supporting Donegal
Jim is marmite and I tend to be glass half empty with regards to his vibe, however its obvious he's an a serious football brain
Would really love to see Ryan McHugh on a winning team, one of my fave players the last 10 years
For the Donegal wans out there, how come Mark McHugh finished up relatively early? The fire go out as such? He had that spell where he was one of the top players in the game, does he still play club?
Had same thought about Mark, hes two years younger than Murphy.
Id guess injury or just had enough of county commitment. Desire matters as much as age. He plays club , scored heavily in a club game before last Donegal game.
I wont know who I want to win this match until it throws in, I've a long held dislike for Kerry but Donegal have certainly been pushing my buttons in recent times. My animosity for Kerry stems from their ability to be continually showered with lavish praise as the saviours of football while simultaneously going unnoticed as one of the dirtiest and nastiest teams going, I've spoken to Armagh county footballers of numerous eras and it is always the same – Kerry are hallions on the pitch. Donegal are no softies tho and no doubt there will be players leaving the field after 'accidental' collisions.
As for the game itself, the match ups will be fascinating, both teams have plenty to worry about. If I was Jack O'Connor I'd be as concerned about Michael Langan and Ciaran Moore as much as Murphy or Gallen, Langan has been the best Donegal player all year IMO and surely in for a shout for POTY if Donegal win (and they don't fall over themselves to give it to Murphy), hopefully himself and Joe O'Connor wont directly cancel each other out and both get to express themselves. You'd have to think that McGuinness will have a plan for DC that will be effectively executed, if that's the case it will be up to the Donegal footballers to prove they are good enough up front, Gallen could either shoot the lights out or be anonymous depending on his headspace, Murphy has had a good year but can be ropey looking at times too and is liable to get himself restricted by a yellow card or worse. Donegal had a pretty handy run to the AIF post Ulster Final, plenty of time to recuperate and reenergise, Kerry have had the harder battles. As I type this I think Donegal have more threats than Kerry tbh, but I think I'd give a tentative vote to Kerry to win, they're not going to let Donegal do what they want to do.
Quote from: bennydorano on July 22, 2025, 11:52:40 AMI wont know who I want to win this match until it throws in, I've a long held dislike for Kerry but Donegal have certainly been pushing my buttons in recent times. My animosity for Kerry stems from their ability to be continually showered with lavish praise as the saviours of football while simultaneously going unnoticed as one of the dirtiest and nastiest teams going, I've spoken to Armagh county footballers of numerous eras and it is always the same – Kerry are hallions on the pitch. Donegal are no softies tho and no doubt there will be players leaving the field after 'accidental' collisions.
As for the game itself, the match ups will be fascinating, both teams have plenty to worry about. If I was Jack O'Connor I'd be as concerned about Michael Langan and Ciaran Moore as much as Murphy or Gallen, Langan has been the best Donegal player all year IMO and surely in for a shout for POTY if Donegal win (and they don't fall over themselves to give it to Murphy), hopefully himself and Joe O'Connor wont directly cancel each other out and both get to express themselves. You'd have to think that McGuinness will have a plan for DC that will be effectively executed, if that's the case it will be up to the Donegal footballers to prove they are good enough up front, Gallen could either shoot the lights out or be anonymous depending on his headspace, Murphy has had a good year but can be ropey looking at times too and is liable to get himself restricted by a yellow card or worse. Donegal had a pretty handy run to the AIF post Ulster Final, plenty of time to recuperate and reenergise, Kerry have had the harder battles. As I type this I think Donegal have more threats than Kerry tbh, but I think I'd give a tentative vote to Kerry to win, they're not going to let Donegal do what they want to do.
They didn't win 38 All Irelands being nice guys. But they've generally always been a good watch and try to kick the bloody thing. Less interested in 'systems' than most, and they've produced some fabulous footballers over the years. Donegal under McGuinness are very good, but Kerry's forwards have more in them if they click.
Reputations are earned sometimes and Kerry have for many years played nicer football than most with little dinky passes and so on. But their media presence means that any team that beat them or even try to lock things down are the 'baddies'. And their own bits of niggle and dirt are whitewashed.
But, there's different ways to play and Donegal running out at full pelt with lads on the shoulder and swinging it over the bar is still great to watch.
Joe O'Connor and Kilpatrick had a right battle in the semi and Langan has the legs and more football in him than Kilpatrick. That's a big one.
Donegal's bench also means that they have serious players to come in and push on or close things out. O'Baoill is a serious man to come in, never mind McBrearty.
Ah lads, this is going to be a great one I think (hope!).
Quote from: Captain Scarlet on July 22, 2025, 01:26:39 PMDonegal's bench also means that they have serious players to come in and push on or close things out. O'Baoill is a serious man to come in, never mind McBrearty.
Ah lads, this is going to be a great one I think (hope!).
I think a huge factor will be just how fit and how sharp Kerry's players who were out with injury will be.
I'm always wary of injured lads coming back into a team for a final - a lot of the time the gamble of playing lads who are not fully fit doesn't pay off. In a lot of cases while the fitness levels might be passable, their form looks to be a bit rusty, which can often get exposed competing up against fully fit lads who are likely in flying form coming into the final. Paul Geaney, Diarmuid O'Connor and Tom O'Sullivan would all be in the starting 15 if fully fit. Will any of these be in the 26? Will any of them be in the starting 15? Donegal by contrast look a lot more settled squad in terms of starters and their sub options.
Also lot of the talk about Kerry being a one-man team was glossing over how well Paul Geaney was going. He had a great league and was having a very decent championship before he got injured. The various replacements tried for him - Conor Geaney and Killian Spillane don't seem to have performed anyway close to his levels. Where he is with his fitness and form could be absolutely massive in what way the game goes.
There's a lot of expectation that the players who've been excelling for Donegal so far are going to do excel again in the All-Ireland Final, but as we saw in the hurling that's a dangerous assumption as it's such a huge occasion way different to any other match.
Instead it was the Tipp players with the experience of the winning medals in the back pocket that came to the fore.
How will the Donegal players react to their 1st final? While some will flourish, the occasion will get to others you'd expect.
You've also the players who's previous experience in 2014 was a complete underperformance. That may motivate but it can also put a strangling pressure on them to not underperform again.
I expect Cian O'Neill's experience to be a vital factor. He's won All-Irelands coaching Tipp in hurling and Kerry in football and tonnes of All-Ireland final day experience. I think he's a more valuable asset to Kerry than McGuinness is to Donegal.
You could say that about anyone sure. Will Clifford underperform like he did in his last All Ireland final? Who steps up if he does?
Who from Donegal was there in 2014 who doesn't have an All Ireland medal in the back pocket? McHugh?
Cian O'Neill couldn't get Galway over the line last year, so he may not get Kerry over it.
You're basing a lot of that on very little.
Cahair O'Kane reckons if Donegal hold David Clifford,Sean O'Shea to a combined total of 15 points and Kerry to 23 points will be enough to win.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 22, 2025, 03:00:20 PMCahair O'Kane reckons if Donegal hold David Clifford,Sean O'Shea to a combined total of 15 points and Kerry to 23 points will be enough to win.
I'm sure he thought that Donegal holding James O'Donoghue scoreless in 2014 would be enough to win as well.
Quote from: blanketattack on July 22, 2025, 03:08:51 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 22, 2025, 03:00:20 PMCahair O'Kane reckons if Donegal hold David Clifford,Sean O'Shea to a combined total of 15 points and Kerry to 23 points will be enough to win.
I'm sure he thought that Donegal holding James O'Donoghue scoreless in 2014 would be enough to win as well.
2-9 won't be a winning score for Kerry this weekend as it was in 2014.
With these new rules it could be opportunity to break scoring records
Top score in a final from a winning team Dublin 5–12 (27) in 1977 and Kerry 4–15 (27) 2006.
Top score for team that lost the final. Mayo 1–16 (19) in 2017 and Galway 2–13 (19) in 1973
Handling McBrearty when he comes in could be critical, Kerry would have Looney in reserve for that maybe.
Paddy is good but hes patchy enough and a fast tight marker on him would frustrated his usual routine of pipping a point or two.
Gallen really needs a huge day out if they even want a sniff at Sam
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 22, 2025, 06:41:14 AMQuote from: Captain Obvious on July 21, 2025, 10:51:08 PMQuote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 09:10:28 PMIn years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
So you are living off the fantasy that Kerry are a lovely kick passing team?
The FRC dream was to make the game more of kick-pass game. In reality the team that kicked most during this championship was Meath who got almighty hammering in the semi final and the "through the hands" football remains king with Kerry and Donegal the primary exponents.
The Kerry people in the media constantly tell us this and it is being absorbed. They have one amazing player who plays off the cuff but the rest are as sidewards, backwards and risk free as anyone else.
Indeed, Paudie Clifford was arguably their most influential player for most of this season. You'd nearly mistake him for a Jim McGuinness Donegal player.
Get the name of an early riser......
Your call if you're absorbing anything.
With the new rules, Kerry and Donegal would be at the opposite ends of the spectrum.
Kerry kick more , Donegal run more (alot more)
Kerry will go for it shot wise while Donegal will pass and pass until there's little chance of a miss. You've county forwards constantly passing the ball around the small arc.. 25m shots. It's so micro managed compared to the more off the cuff style of Kerry in the scoring zone.
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 22, 2025, 06:41:14 AMQuote from: Captain Obvious on July 21, 2025, 10:51:08 PMQuote from: JPO on July 21, 2025, 09:10:28 PMIn years to come hopefully the game will return back to something similar to football and the basketball type of game Donegal and many other teams play will just be a bad dream. I recently witnessed an under 10 training session where one of the players was told off for kicking the ball. This how deep the poison has spread.
So you are living off the fantasy that Kerry are a lovely kick passing team?
The FRC dream was to make the game more of kick-pass game. In reality the team that kicked most during this championship was Meath who got almighty hammering in the semi final and the "through the hands" football remains king with Kerry and Donegal the primary exponents.
The Kerry people in the media constantly tell us this and it is being absorbed. They have one amazing player who plays off the cuff but the rest are as sidewards, backwards and risk free as anyone else.
Indeed, Paudie Clifford was arguably their most influential player for most of this season. You'd nearly mistake him for a Jim McGuinness Donegal player.
Get the name of an early riser......
Kerry lads in the media go out of their way to convince people that alright. James O'Donoghue after the All-Ireland Quarter was raving about Kerry's kick passing game while ignoring only 4 of Kerry's 27 scores came from a kick pass.
You'll have people including commentators during the game on Sunday remarking they have mirror Donegals style because in their heads Kerry are this magical kick passing team. In reality the two finalists are primary exponents of "through the hands" football.
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 22, 2025, 09:21:11 AMColm Parkinson is their biggest cheerleader gets on my nerves now.
Among the worst and also attention seeking idiot. Before the semi final he was tweeting that the warm weather would suit Meath's kick passing game while it was too late for Donegal to change their through the hands football but needed to come up with a new plan. End result they changed nothing and blew Meath away in the 2nd half like they did against fellow Leinster finalists Louth.
Lifford cinema [eclipse] is showing the match for free.
Smart business move, wish more would do it.
With risk of over simplifying it, win midfield and win the game. I expect Donegal to boss the kickouts, starve Kerry of ball into the forwards, grind them down and eventually strangle the game. Donegal by 3 but having matters well under control long before the final whistle.
Quote from: balladmaker on July 23, 2025, 12:56:54 PMWith risk of over simplifying it, win midfield and win the game. I expect Donegal to boss the kickouts, starve Kerry of ball into the forwards, grind them down and eventually strangle the game. Donegal by 3 but having matters well under control long before the final whistle.
Thought we would have done the same but look what happened. Donegal are massive around the middle though so you could be right.
I think Kerry will have too much for Donegal.
Donegal will have too many fires to put out.
Kerry by 7 or 8 I reckon.
I expect Ryan McHugh to have a massive game.
Will score at least one two pointers, has missed a few in last game or two.
Him or Moore would be dark horse MOTM contender but id assume Murphy will get it should Donegal win.
They can only beat what's in front of them and their entire planning centres around Croke Park and the likes of Kerry.
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 23, 2025, 01:34:48 PMI think Kerry will have too much for Donegal.
Donegal will have too many fires to put out.
Kerry by 7 or 8 I reckon.
The interesting thing is that both teams have a lot of fires to put out. Who tracks Murphy in and out? Langan? Donegal have serious players in their half forward line too.
It's like whack-a-mole for both.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 23, 2025, 01:38:15 PMI expect Ryan McHugh to have a massive game.
Will score at least one two pointers, has missed a few in last game or two.
Him or Moore would be dark horse MOTM contender but id assume Murphy will get it should Donegal win.
They can only beat what's in front of them and their entire planning centres around Croke Park and the likes of Kerry.
Possibly be asked to tag Paudie Clifford?
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 23, 2025, 01:20:43 PMQuote from: balladmaker on July 23, 2025, 12:56:54 PMWith risk of over simplifying it, win midfield and win the game. I expect Donegal to boss the kickouts, starve Kerry of ball into the forwards, grind them down and eventually strangle the game. Donegal by 3 but having matters well under control long before the final whistle.
Thought we would have done the same but look what happened. Donegal are massive around the middle though so you could be right.
Writing was on the wall for Armagh in the terms of kick outs in the Dublin game. Kerry then were the opposite to Dublin in their shooting.
Quote from: balladmaker on July 23, 2025, 12:56:54 PMWith risk of over simplifying it, win midfield and win the game. I expect Donegal to boss the kickouts, starve Kerry of ball into the forwards, grind them down and eventually strangle the game. Donegal by 3 but having matters well under control long before the final whistle.
For the entire game or parts of each half? Monaghan pretty much destroyed Donegal's kickouts for a half.
For a team to boss the kickouts they will need some slice of luck and then some more, and more etc
(https://i.ibb.co/gZf43znm/Gwijd-KYXIAA67qv.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yFZ4XW3d)
(https://i.ibb.co/qYZgR6mT/Gwijc3z-Wo-AAwjub.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PGSW5k1q)
(https://i.ibb.co/zVBFJMNG/Gwijcog-Ww-AEtjle.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8gfbcCX6)
(https://i.ibb.co/Y4Cfzxbv/Gwijc-TSWk-AA3-IY1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JW1rf9CX)
8-39 from play from David Clifford is about the same as what the top 3 scorers combined got in 2024.
Also higher than the top scorer in hurling.
Even taking the 2 pointers out it, still great shooting.
On my Windows 11 machine, this is the background today. Is Microsoft supporting Kerry or Donegal?
(https://i.ibb.co/dsZqjyht/windowsbackground.jpg) (https://ibb.co/SDS85pLc)
I think Donegal's name could be on this. A few things have happened this year that have really worked out in their favour. The ulster final could have went either way. The defeat to tyrone worked out perfectly. See what happens but I don't want to hear that donegal were unlucky after Sunday. They've had more than their fair share
Donegal have better bench plus impact from it, kerry shade on field quality. The injury crisis and Tom OSullivan, Geaney and DOC not being fully fit ready to rock is concerning.
I think it could either be a tight Kerry win or a big Donegal win (6-8 points). It's all about what happens on the day, and a black/red card could really turn out to be the difference.
Still think everything is pointing to a Donegal win. They've rode their luck , got a favourable draw , and Murphy has been allowed to run around like Donkey Kong .
So , having said all that....
Kerry by 2.........1-23 to 1-21.
Murphy two yellows, and misses a penalty. D Clifford 1-8.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 23, 2025, 07:10:32 PMMurphy two yellows, and misses a penalty. D Clifford 1-8.
Given Murphy hasn't got a red so far this year, I doubt he'll pick one up in the final.
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 23, 2025, 07:26:46 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 23, 2025, 07:10:32 PMMurphy two yellows, and misses a penalty. D Clifford 1-8.
Given Murphy hasn't got a red so far this year, I doubt he'll pick one up in the final.
He is overdue his comeuppance.
It'll be a dour boring game. Most games involving Donegal are. If McGinLey is commentating he'll love it, talking about backdoor cuts, high risk shot selections, kickout strategies etc. If Donegal win playing that shite he'll be as happy as Jimmy Saville in a morgue
Quote from: JPO on July 23, 2025, 11:16:43 PMIt'll be a dour boring game. Most games involving Donegal are. If McGinLey is commentating he'll love it, talking about backdoor cuts, high risk shot selections, kickout strategies etc. If Donegal win playing that shite he'll be as happy as Jimmy Saville in a morgue
Did someone from Donegal take your woman?! :D :D
Quote from: JPO on July 23, 2025, 11:16:43 PMIt'll be a dour boring game. Most games involving Donegal are. If McGinLey is commentating he'll love it, talking about backdoor cuts, high risk shot selections, kickout strategies etc. If Donegal win playing that shite he'll be as happy as Jimmy Saville in a morgue
Shocker, commentator discusses what is happening in the game. McGinley is a superb co commentator imo
He talks the talk of a modern coach. Utter nonsense It makes him money though. Remember his coaching with Antrim? Very modern indeed however it was brutal.
I doubt even Saint Jim of Glenties could perform any miracles with Antrim
Jim wouldnt take on Antrim as it would be bad for his cv. No money in that. Have to build up a reputation as a genius to demand big money.
Kerry people pretty quiet which means they are confident. Jack can retire on a high.
They quite because there no kerry posters on this board. Kerry Mike been off long time, don't know where that young lad went to from couple of yrs ago, he done some Kerry ranting about how great there were. I say having good alot of men injured, the reason they quite on it.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 24, 2025, 12:57:13 AMThey quite because there no kerry posters on this board. Kerry Mike been off long time, don't know where that young lad went to from couple of yrs ago, he done some Kerry ranting about how great there were. I say having good alot of men injured, the reason they quite on it.
there is at least one Kerry poster on here though he/she has been quiet enough this week
Look at what McGuinness has done for Donegal both times after coming into a complete mess of a setup. The only blot on his copybook (in Gaa) is the ai final in 2014 that Donegal really left behind them. They didn't deserve it that day but really that team should have been beating that Kerry team by a bit and just didn't. I wonder does that stick with him.
Check the media for Kerry ones as they seem to be all over it...
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 24, 2025, 12:20:24 AMQuote from: JPO on July 23, 2025, 11:53:58 PMJim wouldnt take on Antrim as it would be bad for his cv. No money in that. Have to build up a reputation as a genius to demand big money.
Jim is a genius. Took Donegal from nowhere to 2011 All Ireland semi-final.. was too negative, revamped that with Murphy full forward, Lacey, McGlynn and McHugh bombing forward All Ireland champions 2012.
Back in 2024 takes Ulster champions Donegal to All Ireland semi-final loses to Galway, 2025 the rules are completely changed and here we are Donegal Ulster champions in the All Ireland final. Jimmy's winning matches..
He's an absolute top man. Can't understand the hate he gets. Jealousy more than likely.
Quote from: JPO on July 23, 2025, 11:44:15 PMHe talks the talk of a modern coach. Utter nonsense It makes him money though. Remember his coaching with Antrim? Very modern indeed however it was brutal.
What could anyone do with that Antrim team? Their best club team that has won 8 of the last 10 county championships has been found out every time they play better teams in Ulster. Just had a look and since 2015 an Antrim team has won one game in Ulster club and that was 2022 pens against Naomh Conaill. He'd be doing well to do anything with Antrim
Quote from: thebigfullforward on July 24, 2025, 08:48:46 AMQuote from: JPO on July 23, 2025, 11:44:15 PMHe talks the talk of a modern coach. Utter nonsense It makes him money though. Remember his coaching with Antrim? Very modern indeed however it was brutal.
What could anyone do with that Antrim team? Their best club team that has won 8 of the last 10 county championships has been found out every time they play better teams in Ulster. Just had a look and since 2015 an Antrim team has won one game in Ulster club and that was 2022 pens against Naomh Conaill. He'd be doing well to do anything with Antrim
Armagh clubs would have a similarly shite record in Ulster. Not saying Antrim will be getting to division 1 or competing for an All Ireland anytime soon but they should be higher than where they are.
If they could bring the sort of performance to every game they showed against us in Corrigan they would be close to a division 2 standard team.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 24, 2025, 09:29:02 AMQuote from: thebigfullforward on July 24, 2025, 08:48:46 AMQuote from: JPO on July 23, 2025, 11:44:15 PMHe talks the talk of a modern coach. Utter nonsense It makes him money though. Remember his coaching with Antrim? Very modern indeed however it was brutal.
What could anyone do with that Antrim team? Their best club team that has won 8 of the last 10 county championships has been found out every time they play better teams in Ulster. Just had a look and since 2015 an Antrim team has won one game in Ulster club and that was 2022 pens against Naomh Conaill. He'd be doing well to do anything with Antrim
Armagh clubs would have a similarly shite record in Ulster. Not saying Antrim will be getting to division 1 or competing for an All Ireland anytime soon but they should be higher than where they are.
If they could bring the sort of performance to every game they showed against us in Corrigan they would be close to a division 2 standard team.
Problem is they lost 5 games in division 3 so they obviously just aren't good enough. Maybe they can push on after that performance but I'd say it'll be the same again next year
Tyrone champions weren't great until this year but they were still always a top team on the county scene.
St Galls beat a Clare team in the All Ireland final. Both county teams were still shite.
There is little to no link between the fortunes of a county's champions and the fortunes of the county team.
Anyway, Antrim football has no place in a Tailteann Cup final thread, let alone an All Ireland final thread.
I meant the way he had Antrim playing. It was brutal stuff to watch. Donegal had a good team in 2011 and 2012 and he is a good manager so they won an All Ireland. Very simple really. Hes no genius ,The majority of managers are quite thick so he is a cut above them. Galway have a good team but a thick manager hence they havent won an All Ireland.
Lovely.
They weren't a good team before him and they weren't a good team after him. Coincidence?
Thats what I said. Hes a good manager and had good players to work with. It takes both to win anything.
Quote from: thebigfullforward on July 24, 2025, 09:37:14 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 24, 2025, 09:29:02 AMQuote from: thebigfullforward on July 24, 2025, 08:48:46 AMQuote from: JPO on July 23, 2025, 11:44:15 PMHe talks the talk of a modern coach. Utter nonsense It makes him money though. Remember his coaching with Antrim? Very modern indeed however it was brutal.
What could anyone do with that Antrim team? Their best club team that has won 8 of the last 10 county championships has been found out every time they play better teams in Ulster. Just had a look and since 2015 an Antrim team has won one game in Ulster club and that was 2022 pens against Naomh Conaill. He'd be doing well to do anything with Antrim
Armagh clubs would have a similarly shite record in Ulster. Not saying Antrim will be getting to division 1 or competing for an All Ireland anytime soon but they should be higher than where they are.
If they could bring the sort of performance to every game they showed against us in Corrigan they would be close to a division 2 standard team.
Problem is they lost 5 games in division 3 so they obviously just aren't good enough. Maybe they can push on after that performance but I'd say it'll be the same again next year
Did feck all in the Tailteann either which surprised me.
Against Armagh they went for it. They didnt play the normal possession based risk averse game most teams play. Fortune favours the brave so why not play like that all the time?
It would be a massive coup if Antrim could nab Jim McGuinness.
Quote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 10:06:17 AMAgainst Armagh they went for it. They didnt play the normal possession based risk averse game most teams play. Fortune favours the brave so why not play like that all the time?
Are you actually serious? Last three games Donegal have scored 2-22 v Louth, 1-26 v Monaghan, 3-26 v Meath. (28, 29 and 35 points!).
Have you anything to back up this nonsense you're going over?..
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 24, 2025, 10:20:50 AMQuote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 10:06:17 AMAgainst Armagh they went for it. They didnt play the normal possession based risk averse game most teams play. Fortune favours the brave so why not play like that all the time?
Are you actually serious? Last three games Donegal have scored 2-22 v Louth, 1-26 v Monaghan, 3-26 v Meath. (28, 29 and 35 points!).
Have you anything to back up this nonsense you're going over?..
For some odd reason, this discussion is still centring around Antrim, not Donegal.
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 24, 2025, 10:33:15 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 24, 2025, 10:20:50 AMQuote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 10:06:17 AMAgainst Armagh they went for it. They didnt play the normal possession based risk averse game most teams play. Fortune favours the brave so why not play like that all the time?
Are you actually serious? Last three games Donegal have scored 2-22 v Louth, 1-26 v Monaghan, 3-26 v Meath. (28, 29 and 35 points!).
Have you anything to back up this nonsense you're going over?..
For some odd reason, this discussion is still centring around Antrim, not Donegal.
He's on bout Antrim?! He was slagging Donegal and McGuinness before that. Hard to keep up. Thanks.
Antrim?! 😊
Yes I talking about Antrim. I wasnt slagging off McGuinness either. I was only saying he's not a genius.
Anyone read Jim's book? Halfway through it. Id lost interest in football for about a decade, it sat on the shelf.
Good read so far, amusing anecdote about bulking Rory Kavanagh up. He was spending 70 euro extra on food per week [probably due to quality beef as well as quantity].
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 24, 2025, 07:57:51 AMLook at what McGuinness has done for Donegal both times after coming into a complete mess of a setup. The only blot on his copybook (in Gaa) is the ai final in 2014 that Donegal really left behind them. They didn't deserve it that day but really that team should have been beating that Kerry team by a bit and just didn't. I wonder does that stick with him.
Check the media for Kerry ones as they seem to be all over it...
The improvement he's brought in both terms in a short space of time shows what the right organisation, fitness and conditioning can do for a team.
Last years semi final was another blot. Narrow loss to Galway whereby a flukey goal was conceded 1st half and game lost 2nd half with Donegal scoring just 0-5 from 16 shots.
Donegals 2nd half performance in comparison against Monaghan,Meath in the terms of scores,shots and accuracy has been as good as anything from any team under these new rules.
In the past I'd always look at how a finalists are doing defensively as the saying goes defence wins championships does that still apply in offensive heavy game now?
Jim McGuinness said in February directly after beating Kerry "I think it's almost impossible to defend, the game is just crazy transitional"
Both Donegal and Kerry in their last two games have given up 31,34,35 and 31 shots to the opposition but accuracy of shooting shot selection by Monaghan,Armagh, Meath,Tyrone was average to poor. The question is how much will both concede on Sunday by giving up the same amount of opportunities.
He has said he thought about 2014 final every day since.
Will be interesting to see what research he has done into Kerry and how it plays out. Be a fool to bet against them.
What does crazy transitional mean?
Also can you please explain what you mean by shot selection?
JPO why do you come across so bitter?
Im sorry if I come across as bitter, I'm not. I'm listened to bullshit from modern coaches and managers for years and watched how they have screwed thousands from clubs all over Ireland, While the volunteers were busting a gut raising money to pay for them. They are parasites
Quote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 08:45:35 PMAlso can you please explain what you mean by shot selection?
Quote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 08:35:53 PMWhat does crazy transitional mean?
Are you on the wind up, a little bit slow or combination of both?
Im simply saying how it is. Theres no call to insult me
Quote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 08:45:35 PMAlso can you please explain what you mean by shot selection?
I'd say a 6 year old would know what that means, what are you on about?
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 24, 2025, 09:21:37 PMQuote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 08:45:35 PMAlso can you please explain what you mean by shot selection?
I'd say a 6 year old would know what that means, what are you on about?
Have to agree... recent posts JPO you don't seem to have a clue what you're on about.
Well then perhaps you can explain what is meant by shot selection for a start? I'm only asking.
Self explanatory! A player's ability to recognize what is going on when in possession, know the shot options available and choose the best possible shot from all the information they have gathered... or move it to another player.
:D :D
Players choose when and where to shoot. Managers like the two Jim's aim to get shots off as close to goal as possible to maximise efficiency [successful scores divided by attempts to score ]
Donegal ushered Meath into off centre two pointer shots knowing they would likely hit a few but more likely to miss.
That's the essence of "shot selection" but its well and good in theory. Comes down to individual skill/speed of thinking in attack, patience in build up.
Donegal keep passing in order to get a high percentage shot, rather than shooting at first opportunity.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 24, 2025, 09:43:31 PMPlayers choose when and where to shoot. Managers like the two Jim's aim to get shots off as close to goal as possible to maximise efficiency [successful scores divided by attempts to score ]
Donegal ushered Meath into off centre two pointer shots knowing they would likely hit a few but more likely to miss.
That's the essence of "shot selection" but its well and good in theory. Comes down to individual skill/speed of thinking in attack, patience in build up.
Donegal keep passing in order to get a high percentage shot, rather than shooting at first opportunity.
You'll have to explain that one to that fella as well I'd say..
Yes that makes sense. Meath reached an All Ireland semi final by kicking long range points so that was good shot selection. Against Donegal they hit too many wides from long range so then it became bad sot selection?
Quote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 09:50:12 PMYes that makes sense. Meath reached an All Ireland semi final by kicking long range points so that was good shot selection. Against Donegal they hit too many wides from long range so then it became bad sot selection?
This is a wind-up? :D
They encountered shrewd opposition who would force them into poor positions for taking shots.
A more experienced Meath would have anticipated this and altered course.
There is an element of cliché and buzz phrases but thats part of punditry forever.
One phrase I detest that everyone started using is "they'll take great LEARNINGS from this".
Just a young team. Great to watch though.
Quote from: JPO on July 24, 2025, 09:50:12 PMYes that makes sense. Meath reached an All Ireland semi final by kicking long range points so that was good shot selection. Against Donegal they hit too many wides from long range so then it became bad sot selection?
Meath scored no two pointer in their Quarter final win against Galway. The beginning of the end of them in the semi final was their obsession with two pointers in the first half against Donegal. Shouldn't be lost on anyone that Kerry and Donegal scored just one two pointer each in their semi final wins.
Any 6 yr olds on here to explain what is meant by crazy transitional? It sounds great
In a changed strategy, Donegal will go for 2-pointers early on. A score of 8 points to 2 could be possible after 20 mins. Tyrone did this to Dublin.
Quote from: Aaron Boone on July 24, 2025, 10:21:46 PMIn a changed strategy, Donegal will go for 2-pointers early on. A score of 8 points to 2 could be possible after 20 mins. Tyrone did this to Dublin.
Even if Donegal are playing against a strong wind in the 1st half?
Kerry strength in depth improves with the return of Diarmuid O'Connor and Paul Geaney from injury. Both named on the bench.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GwpNzVyXsAEQ3Ep?format=jpg&name=large)
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 25, 2025, 12:51:06 AMKerry strength in depth improves with the return of Diarmuid O'Connor and Paul Geaney from injury. Both named on the bench.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GwpNzVyXsAEQ3Ep?format=jpg&name=large)
Geaney on bench the last day but didn't play. Tom O'Sullivan only player missing now.
Quote from: tonto1888 on July 24, 2025, 07:26:16 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 24, 2025, 12:57:13 AMThey quite because there no kerry posters on this board. Kerry Mike been off long time, don't know where that young lad went to from couple of yrs ago, he done some Kerry ranting about how great there were. I say having good alot of men injured, the reason they quite on it.
there is at least one Kerry poster on here though he/she has been quiet enough this week
There's a few of us around alright. I suspect the issue is that most of the time we have no idea what ye are arguing amongst yourselves about.
Quote from: Keane on July 25, 2025, 09:12:26 AMQuote from: tonto1888 on July 24, 2025, 07:26:16 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 24, 2025, 12:57:13 AMThey quite because there no kerry posters on this board. Kerry Mike been off long time, don't know where that young lad went to from couple of yrs ago, he done some Kerry ranting about how great there were. I say having good alot of men injured, the reason they quite on it.
there is at least one Kerry poster on here though he/she has been quiet enough this week
There's a few of us around alright. I suspect the issue is that most of the time we have no idea what ye are arguing amongst yourselves about.
usually your club championship haha
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 07:46:07 AMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 25, 2025, 12:51:06 AMKerry strength in depth improves with the return of Diarmuid O'Connor and Paul Geaney from injury. Both named on the bench.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GwpNzVyXsAEQ3Ep?format=jpg&name=large)
Geaney on bench the last day but didn't play. Tom O'Sullivan only player missing now.
Barry Dan at midfield.
The big question though is the fitness and form of the lads who were out with injuries.
All the following Kerry players have missed at least one chammpionship games with injury this year.
Shane Ryan
Paul Murphy
Brian O'Beaglaoich
Mike Breen
Sean O'Shea
Paudie Clifford
Tadgh Morley
Paul Geaney
Tony Brosnan
Diarmuid O'Connor
Dara Moynihan
Plus Tom O'Sullivan and Barry Dan O'Sullivan who will miss the final with injury.
You'd wonder what's going on with the Kerry lads.
Quote from: tonto1888 on July 25, 2025, 09:20:03 AMQuote from: Keane on July 25, 2025, 09:12:26 AMQuote from: tonto1888 on July 24, 2025, 07:26:16 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 24, 2025, 12:57:13 AMThey quite because there no kerry posters on this board. Kerry Mike been off long time, don't know where that young lad went to from couple of yrs ago, he done some Kerry ranting about how great there were. I say having good alot of men injured, the reason they quite on it.
there is at least one Kerry poster on here though he/she has been quiet enough this week
There's a few of us around alright. I suspect the issue is that most of the time we have no idea what ye are arguing amongst yourselves about.
usually your club championship haha
;D
It's a funny one. It must be that the All Ireland club series is given more weight in other places than it is down here. My club won the Munster club title a few years ago and only lost the AISF by three points, so a kick of a ball from the final. This is obviously after winning the Club Championship in Kerry as well. So while winning the club champ, Munster champ and getting to play in Croke Park were great the reality is 99% of people would swap all of those for winning the County Championship and wouldn't take a second to think about it.
We're very fond of the way our championships are structured locally, there's a lot of good in it. The junior and intermediate competitions are extremely hard fought. I'd say a lot of people would rather withdraw from the All Ireland competitions rather than change our system because other counties insist on having 16 or 20 'senior' clubs that never have a hope of winning anything.
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 25, 2025, 09:20:53 AMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 07:46:07 AMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 25, 2025, 12:51:06 AMKerry strength in depth improves with the return of Diarmuid O'Connor and Paul Geaney from injury. Both named on the bench.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GwpNzVyXsAEQ3Ep?format=jpg&name=large)
Geaney on bench the last day but didn't play. Tom O'Sullivan only player missing now.
Barry Dan at midfield.
The big question though is the fitness and form of the lads who were out with injuries.
All the following Kerry players have missed at least one chammpionship games with injury this year.
Shane Ryan
Paul Murphy
Brian O'Beaglaoich
Mike Breen
Sean O'Shea
Paudie Clifford
Tadgh Morley
Paul Geaney
Tony Brosnan
Diarmuid O'Connor
Dara Moynihan
Plus Tom O'Sullivan and Barry Dan O'Sullivan who will miss the final with injury.
You'd wonder what's going on with the Kerry lads.
I think Jimmy is training them to hard
(https://i.ibb.co/rGT0dg66/Gws-X0b-W8-AAi-KNf.jpg) (https://ibb.co/27mhZwtt)
(https://i.ibb.co/9kkfstrq/Gws-X0g-QX0-AARX8-B.jpg) (https://ibb.co/211LgNkj)
All things being equal you'd give Donegal an edge but the lack of All Ireland final experience would tip it back in Kerrys favour.
Shout out to the JMac Podcast, it doesn't get as many big names but its less pretentious as a result. Tried listening to Spillane then the Dave McIntyre one and half time was spent fondling the balls of the big names.
Donegal machine team to beat a Kerry team sprinkled with stars.
It'll be close but I can see Donegal just being ready for every situation. They won't be able to keep Kerry's big guns from scoring but they will limit them to a manageable level and hurt Kerry through hard running and wearing them down as the game progresses.
Are you still limited to a panel of 26 for a final?
When you look at the bench from Donegal it is serious in fairness. There's lads I have half forgotten about that would make most teams.
The closer it gets the more I think Donegal by 4+. They have so much legs and even if they have had blips I'd trust McGuinness to have them humming on Sunday.
I think with the new rules we could have a genuine classic.
While Donegal are definitely in with a shout, surely Kerry have to be favourites with their recent All-Ireland win and overall greater experience at this stage.
It's hard to not laugh at the Kerry fans online trying to fabricate the narrative that they've been completely written off, it just comes across as them not being able to handle anyone believing another county might beat them in an All-Ireland final.
Bookies have Kerry as the narrowest of narrow favourites.
Kerry EVS
Donegal 6/5
Draw anyone?
Shot accuracy in Kerrys last 4 games
Sean O se 23 /29 = 79%
Clifford 24/35 69%
Paul Geaney 4/5 shots 80% [cork and roscommon games]
Dylan Geaney 3/7 43%
Shot accuracy
Gaelic statsman
Kerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
These kind of comments read like they've been posted by a bot
I find it mad that a lot of the commentary in the lead up to this game is focusing on the All Ireland final 11 years ago and last week's All Ireland hurling final. Both of which are about as relevant to Sunday as a go games blitz.
Quote from: greatpoint on July 25, 2025, 03:33:14 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
These kind of comments read like they've been posted by a bot
And another who has themselves convinced or influenced that Kerry are a lovely kick passing team and don't play through the hands football.
Donegal heads will be hoping his prediction is as far out as his hurling final one.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 20, 2025, 02:07:33 PMTipp played their final against Kilkenny. Cork could probably win by 10-15 points.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 25, 2025, 04:24:21 PMQuote from: greatpoint on July 25, 2025, 03:33:14 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
These kind of comments read like they've been posted by a bot
And another who has themselves convinced or influenced that Kerry are a lovely kick passing team and don't play through the hands football.
Donegal heads will be hoping his prediction is as far out as his hurling final one.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 20, 2025, 02:07:33 PMTipp played their final against Kilkenny. Cork could probably win by 10-15 points.
Sure they were only off by 25-30 points in the end
Quote from: greatpoint on July 25, 2025, 03:33:14 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
These kind of comments read like they've been posted by a bot
Who is Bot?
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
Yes wins do not count if they are after extra time 👍👍👍
It's a very hard game to call, the hurling last week showed that. I think Donegal hold Clifford, but the attention they give him frees up others.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 25, 2025, 05:50:04 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
Yes wins do not count if they are after extra time 👍👍👍
No one has won the Ulster Championship since 2021 sure
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 25, 2025, 06:54:58 PMIt's a very hard game to call, the hurling last week showed that. I think Donegal hold Clifford, but the attention they give him frees up others.
Kerry 6 forwards and subs b
Quote from: greatpoint on July 25, 2025, 03:33:14 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
These kind of comments read like they've been posted by a bot
Clifford
Gooch
Maurice
OShea
OConnell.
I doubt you'd know your football history but Kerry produce players.
As for productions lines that was it 5 odd all Ireland minor wins after Brolly came out with that.
If it wasnt for the AFL you can rest assured there'd be no 6 in a row.
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 08:52:02 PMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 25, 2025, 06:54:58 PMIt's a very hard game to call, the hurling last week showed that. I think Donegal hold Clifford, but the attention they give him frees up others.
Kerry 6 forwards and subs bQuote from: greatpoint on July 25, 2025, 03:33:14 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 25, 2025, 03:27:54 PMKerry play football the right way. None if thix hand passing gick The rules with kickouts suit their high fielding game.
Kerry have sussed the blanket defence. Armagh, Tyrone beaten out the gate.
Read somewhere Kerry haven't lost a championship game to Ulster opposition over 70 minutes since 2012. Tyrone win 21 and Armagh wins after extra time.
Jimmy McGuinness is one trick pony. Got outfoxed by an average Kerry manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice.
Kerry by 6-8 points.
These kind of comments read like they've been posted by a bot
Clifford
Gooch
Maurice
OShea
OConnell.
I doubt you'd know your football history but Kerry produce players.
As for productions lines that was it 5 odd all Ireland minor wins after Brolly came out with that.
If it wasnt for the AFL you can rest assured there'd be no 6 in a row.
You're taking posts from other forums and posting them here now are you?
Red Handed....is he a Tyrone man? Hahhaha
Why Dun, do extra win wins not count anymore?
Quote from: Captain Scarlet on July 25, 2025, 02:26:13 PMWhen you look at the bench from Donegal it is serious in fairness. There's lads I have half forgotten about that would make most teams.
The closer it gets the more I think Donegal by 4+. They have so much legs and even if they have had blips I'd trust McGuinness to have them humming on Sunday.
I think with the new rules we could have a genuine classic.
Be surprised if Donegal start as named.
Daire O'Baoil in for Caolan McColgan you would think
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 25, 2025, 06:54:58 PMIt's a very hard game to call, the hurling last week showed that. I think Donegal hold Clifford, but the attention they give him frees up others.
"Holding" Clifford = about 7-8 points. I can see Donegal doing that which is what Armagh did fairly well, but I can't see Donegal allowing Seanie to shoot the lights out like we did.
Can also see another scenario with aclifford hitting about 3-12 lol
McCole actually a very good full bck.but I notice 4 of the Donegal bck 6 are smallish men,McHugh,Mogan, Roarty, McColgan, Kerry big m3n in the half forward line and if Geaney comes in the full forward line. Whos marking him.
Killian Spillane a big unit too when he comes in
Both still very markable and I don't think Donegal's defensive concerns will lie with either of them. Donegal struggling with big physical forwards hasn't been a theme of this year's championship.
The entire plan will centre around the Cliffords with a watchful eye on Seanie O'Shea. O'Shea's form has been pretty meh to be honest, save for the Armagh game where they completely refused to mark him.
Gavin White will take more watching than some of the Kerry forwards.
We can fall into the trap that all these Kerry players are world beaters. They aren't and they've been knocked out of the championship by 4 different teams in the 5 previous seasons.
Donegal were knocked out 5 times in the previous 5 seasons.
And nobody is talking about them like they are invincible.
Sensible people see it as 50/50ish with the best team on the day winning it.
Quote from: Rossfan on July 26, 2025, 11:43:14 AMSensible people see it as 50/50ish with the best team on the day winning it.
As the week has gone on I've been leaning more towards Donegal - If both sides were 100% fit and fresh I'd be leaning marginally for Kerry but Kerry's injuries this year tips the favour in Donegal's favour - I'd also have big question marks about Sean O'Brien and Mark O'Shea around midfield for Kerry.
In hurling, Tipperary went winless in Munster in 2018, then won the All Ireland in 2019. 2024 they were winless again. 2025 another All Ireland.
Jim McGuinness led Donegal to the SF in 2011 then won the All Ireland in 2012. He returned in 2024 to take Donegal back to the SF. 2025...
When history sort of repeats I must defer to history and predict a Donegal victory Sunday.
Quote from: Rossfan on July 26, 2025, 11:43:14 AMSensible people see it as 50/50ish with the best team on the day winning it.
Exactly this, Donegal will cause Kerry lots of problems and Kerry will cause similar problems for Donegal. I think Kerrys ability to kick long range points might just edge it to them but I say that with no real confidence.
Quote from: EoinW on July 26, 2025, 11:59:09 AMIn hurling, Tipperary went winless in Munster in 2018, then won the All Ireland in 2019. 2024 they were winless again. 2025 another All Ireland.
Jim McGuinness led Donegal to the SF in 2011 then won the All Ireland in 2012. He returned in 2024 to take Donegal back to the SF. 2025...
When history sort of repeats I must defer to history and predict a Donegal victory Sunday.
In 2006 a Jack O'Connor managed team beat Armagh in the quarter final when Armagh were winning at half time. Kerry won the All Ireland final. When history repeats I must defer to history and predict a Kerry victory on Sunday.
At least with Brendan Cawley being the man in the middle, Michael Murphy know's he'll be afforded the time to get an oul' stretch in at kick outs ::)
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 26, 2025, 11:50:31 AMQuote from: Rossfan on July 26, 2025, 11:43:14 AMSensible people see it as 50/50ish with the best team on the day winning it.
As the week has gone on I've been leaning more towards Donegal - If both sides were 100% fit and fresh I'd be leaning marginally for Kerry but Kerry's injuries this year tips the favour in Donegal's favour - I'd also have big question marks about Sean O'Brien and Mark O'Shea around midfield for Kerry.
Those same injuries was there for the last two games as Kerry eased past Armagh,Tyrone, teams that Donegal needed extra time and lost to during this championship. Argument to be made Jack O'Connor has stumbled onto his strongest starting 15 now due to those injuries and such injuries shouldn't be used as excuse now before tomorrows final.
Kerry have so much class but also playing with anger. Like they have a point to prove.
If anyone can figure a way to upset the apple cart it'll be McGuinness.
Tyrone put a "70% at his best" hampsey on Clifford with obvious disastrous consequences. Donegal will handle him a lot better.
Third quarter could be when Donegal attempt a goals strategy.
Time will tell, let's hope for a good contest no poor reffing or Papa type mistakes.
Quote from: Cunny Funt on July 26, 2025, 12:28:44 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 26, 2025, 11:50:31 AMQuote from: Rossfan on July 26, 2025, 11:43:14 AMSensible people see it as 50/50ish with the best team on the day winning it.
As the week has gone on I've been leaning more towards Donegal - If both sides were 100% fit and fresh I'd be leaning marginally for Kerry but Kerry's injuries this year tips the favour in Donegal's favour - I'd also have big question marks about Sean O'Brien and Mark O'Shea around midfield for Kerry.
Those same injuries was there for the last two games as Kerry eased past Armagh,Tyrone, teams that Donegal needed extra time and lost to during this championship. Argument to be made Jack O'Connor has stumbled onto his strongest starting 15 now due to those injuries and such injuries shouldn't be used as excuse now before tomorrows final.
I'm really thinking of Diarmuid O'Connor and Paul Geaney. I expect both to feature and could possibly see both starting. I thought Paudie Clifford was quiet enough in the second hand of the Tyrone game. That's three big players for Kerry I would have big question marks about. I'm not saying Kerry can't or won't win it's just that I think if Kerry lose I could see all three of these having quiet/poor games/limited impact. If Kerry win I wouldn't be surprised if these three turn in big/decent performances.
Anyone know what format the tickets are for tomorrow...paper, qr code, traditional stub?
Planning to head into the city tomorrow on the search for a spare and want to know what to look out for!
Ticketmaster.ie QR codes [transfer only via the app] but I think you can get/use printout .
Be careful friend of mine was very badly stung few years ago & that was buying off a guy hed had joy with previously
Thought physical was done away with BTW?
Avoid paper tickets and screen shots!
I have 2 paper tickets for tomorrow, so not done away with yet.
Quote from: StephenC on July 26, 2025, 07:05:12 PMI have 2 paper tickets for tomorrow, so not done away with yet.
Grand if they are your own but id be wary of buying off the street.
You can print out more than once...
There's a serious buzz and, maybe it's me but there seems to be more neutral interest.
Even McHugh, the Da, was saying more ex county boys are heading with new rules and Clifford v Murphy is a big angle.
Honestly think it'll be a classic.
I had a situ at the hurling were I downloaded tickets onto my phone but then did a paper print-out and sold them to two women. Sitting in the Cusack Stand got messaged to go to the gate as the printed tickets wouldn't let them in. Fortunately we weren't far away and went to the gate and they got in from the phone barcode...
So yes.. be careful where you buy a printout... we hadn't even used the phone till they messaged us to save the day! All ended well!
Quote from: Delgany 2nds on July 26, 2025, 06:53:33 PMAvoid paper tickets and screen shots!
Yeah, screen shots definately a big no no nowadays.
I did a last minute transfer to a ticket and you use email[both parties must have an account with ticketmaster and the app installed]. Seamless enough affair via Ticketmaster app. Id advise to get the app/ account and have it on the phone.
Thanks for all the replies, plenty of things to be wary of so!
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 26, 2025, 09:33:24 PMI did a last minute transfer to a ticket and you use email[both parties must have an account with ticketmaster and the app installed]. Seamless enough affair via Ticketmaster app. Id advise to get the app/ account and have it on the phone.
It's a weird setup I found. The GAA has its own Ticketmaster portal and when you transfer the tickets to your own, they don't appear in your app. Only through the browser or something. I mean it works but it's clunky enough.
I favour Kerry, just think they've more football in them than Donegal. Whilst McGuinness is a very good coach I think winning an AI with this group of players will be a step too far.
If O'connor, Moyihan, P Graney were there i say Keery be favourites. With them not there, it's a 50/50 game. The Kerry Midfield i literally hadn't heard of them before the start of the championship.
Quote from: trileacman on July 26, 2025, 10:20:03 PMI favour Kerry, just think they've more football in them than Donegal. Whilst McGuinness is a very good coach I think winning an AI with this group of players will be a step too far.
With respect to them, you could be forgiven for having thought that about Armagh.
Rewatched semi finals there and Donegal just look so organised. At moment I'm giving them a slight edge. Slightly prefer them to win for the Murphy angle as Im heading to Donegal shortly so would be a great buzz.
Tyrone had lack of aggression/Fury. If Donegal can get to that pitch in third quarter I can see them asking serious questions of this Kerry team.
The psychological battle will be interesting.
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 26, 2025, 10:40:20 PMQuote from: trileacman on July 26, 2025, 10:20:03 PMI favour Kerry, just think they've more football in them than Donegal. Whilst McGuinness is a very good coach I think winning an AI with this group of players will be a step too far.
With respect to them, you could be forgiven for having thought that about Armagh.
Personally I'd take Armaghs squad over Donegals squad. 1-9 Donegal are as good as anybody but there's a few holes in their selection from 10-15.
Quote from: trileacman on July 26, 2025, 10:48:20 PMQuote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 26, 2025, 10:40:20 PMQuote from: trileacman on July 26, 2025, 10:20:03 PMI favour Kerry, just think they've more football in them than Donegal. Whilst McGuinness is a very good coach I think winning an AI with this group of players will be a step too far.
With respect to them, you could be forgiven for having thought that about Armagh.
Personally I'd take Armaghs squad over Donegals squad. 1-9 Donegal are as good as anybody but there's a few holes in their selection from 10-15.
It's all about opinions, fair enough. I'd respectfully disagree.
Donegal have no forwards. How many of them would make Kerry team?
The likes O'Baoill and Gallen peaked in opening league games.
Would expect the two Clifford's and O'Shea to put up massive tallies. O'Shea never misses from frees either. 3 best forwards in game. With 2 pointers could be 30 points between them tomorrow.
Seam O'Brien and Mark O'Shea have cleaned out Armagh and Tyrone in the middle with Joe O'Connor playing as third midfield. Can't see Donegal getting near them trio.
As you have said, Kerry haven't even lined out 6 forwards.
Dylan Geaney & Graham O'Sullivan don't make the combined 6. So, Donegal break even there.
I have a paper ticket from the club. Very much looking forward to the game.
Quote from: trileacman on July 26, 2025, 10:48:20 PMQuote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 26, 2025, 10:40:20 PMQuote from: trileacman on July 26, 2025, 10:20:03 PMI favour Kerry, just think they've more football in them than Donegal. Whilst McGuinness is a very good coach I think winning an AI with this group of players will be a step too far.
With respect to them, you could be forgiven for having thought that about Armagh.
Personally I'd take Armaghs squad over Donegals squad. 1-9 Donegal are as good as anybody but there's a few holes in their selection from 10-15.
Really? I think the 2 O'Donnells are seriously underrated and very good forwards, Gallen when he's on it is top class, Thompson is a huge threat from 2 pointers and Moore a serious player as well, Murphy not the player he was or is being hyped up to be in the media but is still a top top player, McBrearty worth a few scores off the bench as well.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 26, 2025, 10:28:33 PMIf O'connor, Moyihan, P Graney were there i say Keery be favourites. With them not there, it's a 50/50 game. The Kerry Midfield i literally hadn't heard of them before the start of the championship.
Same here but they tore us apart in the middle, Murnin, Rian, Crealy and Grimley are all fantasic fielders but were cleaned out against Kerry.
It really doesn't matter where exactly in the rankings Donegals player come, many are playing out of their skins utterly convinced they will beat Kerry in an All Ireland final.
Donegal have had a long campaign, now with rest but two weeks isnt much time for detailed planning and rehearsals. Problem for Jim.
Hes essentially gotten a Fiat Punto remapped to take on the likes of Porsche.
Donegal have to keep Murphy edge of the square for 70 mins. Nothing else works.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 12:04:45 AMDonegal have to keep Murphy edge of the square for 70 mins. Nothing else works.
He be in Jason Foley or Mike Breen back pocket.
Austin Stacks have announced victory parade is Tralee Monday night. Now that is a a sign of confidence.
Read during the week in Examiner ,Kerry had suits sorted day after Tyrone game and Burlington booked 7 months ago.
Pat Spillane said Kerry lads were allowed a few pints after semi final but turned them down so could enjoy the victory pints after final.
I'll go Donegal 2-22 Kerry 1-20
Good job the Donegal lads read this forum. Plenty of motivation to chew on.
Would love to see them do it again , Kerry have enough and we definitely would have a strong case for another Irish Saint.
A draw would suit me lovely
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 06:54:53 AMGood job the Donegal lads read this forum. Plenty of motivation to chew on.
Would love to see them do it again , Kerry have enough and we definitely would have a strong case for another Irish Saint.
A draw would suit me lovely
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 06:54:53 AMGood job the Donegal lads read this forum. Plenty of motivation to chew on.
Would love to see them do it again , Kerry have enough and we definitely would have a strong case for another Irish Saint.
A draw would suit me lovely
Dun Eile is WUM if the Donegal lads didn't know that if they read this page they'd be pretty dumb
"Austin Stacks have announced victory parade is Tralee Monday night"
Jaysus glad someone pointed it out
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 26, 2025, 11:25:36 PMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 26, 2025, 10:28:33 PMIf O'connor, Moyihan, P Graney were there i say Keery be favourites. With them not there, it's a 50/50 game. The Kerry Midfield i literally hadn't heard of them before the start of the championship.
Same here but they tore us apart in the middle, Murnin, Rian, Crealy and Grimley are all fantasic fielders but were cleaned out against Kerry.
It wasn't out fielded tho, it was out worked. Donegal aren't getting outworked or took by surprise
The grass pattern on the pitch looks diabolical. Gonna make it hard to see the lines
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 27, 2025, 10:55:35 AMThe grass pattern on the pitch looks diabolical. Gonna make it hard to see the lines
Crazy. Why not just leave it alone?
Anywhere near Bushmills would be showing the game? Not even joking
Going for a good Kerry start, and eventually Donegal get to grips with Kerry and eek out a 2 point win
David Clifford to get MOM
Fair play to Lee Keegan for wearing a suit from the day Mayo last won an all Ireland. A true county man.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 02:57:40 PMAnywhere near Bushmills would be showing the game? Not even joking
Ballycastle
Hopefully next year we can scrap these "celeb"
Interviewees, same ol hash about fans sitting together everytime
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 27, 2025, 03:13:25 PMHopefully next year we can scrap these "celeb"
Interviewees, same ol hash about fans sitting together everytime
Seconded
Total cringe, like right before the game. We want to know who's in who's out etc
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 02:57:40 PMAnywhere near Bushmills would be showing the game? Not even joking
Only seeing this now but Kiwis Portrush or Springhill Bar, Portrush, would have it.
Joanne is a horrible presenter. More interested in taking digs at the panel rather than talking about the match.
Game delay by the time Michael D gets down these lineups
Sarah Mulkerrins really does make her look a rank amateur
What's team news? Mcfadden out is only thing I've heard ...
Oh Jesus, that pitch!! My eyes!!
David Clifford 9/4 anytime goalscorer and Kerry to win is printing money.
Expect Sean Shea and Dave Clifford to score heavy. Big games in Dylan Geaney and Graham O'Sullivan.
Why would anyone think to themselves "diagonal lines, that's what we need"?
Zonal marking purposes, everyman in his own patch
Pitch marking is ket...
You're allowed to throw the ball back now? One of our players got punished for doing that at underage club game
Real game of chess out there..
f**king hell, Gavin White kicking the ball. Kerry gonna try everything.
Joe O'Connor player of the year surely. Have said it for ages
Pick up square to mark lol
Quote from: thebigfullforward on July 27, 2025, 03:44:41 PMJoe O'Connor player of the year surely. Have said it for ages
Some set of hands on the man. Kerry very accurate so far.
Big physical animal around midfield!
David Clifford punishes a wayward pass with a two pointer. Joe O'Connor having a big influence already. 0-7 to 0-3 after ten minutes
QuoteYou're allowed to throw the ball back now? One of our players got punished for doing that at underage club game
Yes I noticed that. 50m penalty , no?
although it was Murphy . Rules don't apply to him
Kerry winning midfield so far
Kerry able to make space for themselve very easily.
Don't like how this is going at all.
Donegql playing with a sweeper just in front of Clifford, but can do nothing when he's out the field
Kerry mean business today.
P Clifford not been man marked and eating them.
Kerry will hit 30 points at this rate.
McGuinness been found out.
Jim it's only 13 mins, man looks like he's melting over there
This could get ugly. Hardly Jim being found out - Kerry are superb.
Why O'Shea not kick then off the ground any more, nit that it matters, just is a dying art.
Donegal not a team who panics when they get behind but maybe they should with Kerry in this form.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 03:49:14 PMKerry will hit 30 points at this rate.
They will if Donegal continue to struggle at midfield and stand off the Kerry shooters.
Fitzmaurice on co-commentary for another Kerry game....
Was that not a clear push in the back?
It was
Jim getting found out... f**k me lads cut it with the nonsense statements!
He's already won an All Ireland and is at worst the second best team in the country wise up.
Kerry may well hammer them here but they're an exceptional team!
McCole actually very good full bck but hes getting ate alive here.
Donegal are all over the place here.
Everything going against them.
That should have been a free out. Tried to take out Mogan after the ball was gone
Kerry v donegal in the first half is like tipp v cork in the second half. Only one winner here.
Walks into his own man,g that slack.
Quality seriously lacking , but it ain't over yet
Plenty of quality only 2/3 wides
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 03:57:16 PMQuality seriously lacking , but it ain't over yet
Plenty of quality from Kerry!
Quote from: thebigfullforward on July 27, 2025, 03:52:16 PMWas that not a clear push in the back?
Quote from: thebigfullforward on July 27, 2025, 03:52:16 PMWas that not a clear push in the back?
Its michael murphy he can do what he wants
Oh Jesus
Bad miss, Dinegal trying to slow the game down with the free and h man going off
Obviously I meant donegals quality of players lacking.
Absolutely brutal ruthlessness from kerry proving the armagh purple patch wasn't a fluke
Murphy missing that free, sums up Donegal's day already.
Paudi doing as he pleases. Donegal need to man mark him
They man marking nobody but D Clifford and u need 2 men for him.
Ciaran Thompson off injured. Four points in a row, Kerry lead cut to 5 points
Wee bit of momentum now for Donegal
How's P Murphy on in front of T O'Sullivan, cleaned out last day too.
Rorty needs to go on Paudi
That big lad O'brien playing rightly
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 04:06:11 PMNever a free kick there.
The one on Paudie where his arm was slapped?
In reality there is a good bit of difference in quality. Kerry scores much easier come by as their players are just a lot better at making space.
Donegal just 1 wide, Kerry 4 wide and 3 short.
Donegal are making so many bad decisions you'd have to think they can get that tightened up at HT!
Not man marking P Clifford criminal
Quote from: screenexile on July 27, 2025, 04:13:44 PMDonegal are making so many bad decisions you'd have to think they can get that tightened up at HT!
Kerry the same with their shot selection.. a few times there Kerry seemed to get bored with possession and took stupid 2pt pot shots.
Quote from: screenexile on July 27, 2025, 04:13:44 PMDonegal are making so many bad decisions you'd have to think they can get that tightened up at HT!
Aye, and a unusual lack of energy. Theyre not dead yet.
O Baoíl hasn't added much since he came on. Too slow on it when they really need to push it and then that terrible attempt to drop it on top of Murphy.
Fantastic score to end the half
Croke Park Pitch
(https://media.istockphoto.com/id/1190135134/vector/argyle-christmas-seamless-vector-pattern.jpg?s=612x612&w=0&k=20&c=Ph5Eqg3WMIf0m4JtLD79DlBgeS4XbseiYbxXDXkxKIE=)
Mc Cole is not the man for clifford. He is so overhyped this year
That boy is good.
Think the new rules great for Kerry too.
Paudie Clifford what a man. All the big players showing up for Kerry. 2 Cliffords, Joe O'Connor, Gavin White. Dylan Geaney chipping in. Just need to be better defensively
Half time Kerry 0-17 Donegal 0-10. David Clifford two pointer to finish out the half after a long possession piece.
Donegal will need Kerry to collapse like Cork Hurlers 2nd half.
McCole actually good full bck, seem him plenty of times. Time to just accept how good Clifford is.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 04:15:29 PMO Baoíl hasn't added much since he came on. Too slow on it when they really need to push it and then that terrible attempt to drop it on top of Murphy.
His confidence levels are very low compared to last season.
Murphy got 2pts but looks his age out there! Gallen and C O'Donnell playing rightly for Donegal.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 27, 2025, 04:16:52 PMHalf time Kerry 0-17 Donegal 0-10. David Clifford two pointer to finish out the half after a long possession piece.
Donegal will need Kerry to collapse like Cork Hurlers 2nd half.
Definitely going to need at least a couple of goals now, in the second half. Not looking likely.
This supposed "Clifford v Murphy" narrative that the media have been building up for this final hasn't exactly lived up to the bill has it... Always found it a bit odd seeing as Murphy hasn't even been Donegal's best player this year.
Clifford hard to handle when he gets on the ball, as you'd expect. Don't know why Donegal were so content with letting Kerry have the ball in space with a shooting opportunity on the hooter, when Clifford was roaming around there. Donegal might have been happy enough with a 5 pt gap at the break considering how it looked early, but that's just given Kerry an extra boost now. All to do in the 2nd now
Kerry very strong, 7 points at least the better side that first half.
Murphy has been poor for donegal after all the hype, gave the ball away twice and hit the post from an easy free....Clifford scores 7.
Some bright shoots for donegal then a monster 2 pointer to put 7 in it again.
That pitch is hard to look at
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 27, 2025, 04:16:28 PMThat boy is good.
Think the new rules great for Kerry too.
Kerry are flourishing under the new rules. Started like a house on fire and bossing midfield. Joe O'Connor has been colossal. Clifford is something special, he's having a field day, just too easy for him.
Donegal need something magic to happen in the second half
Decision to start McGonagle will be looked at if Donegal lose. Clipped an early point and not sure he's been mentioned since.
Very hard to see Donegal overcome this, they have improvements in them surely but Kerry look to be cruising, there's more in the tank there for Kerry too.
I certainly gave Ciaran Moore & Langan the kiss of death, both brutal! Only Gallen and O'Donnell have played to the standard required imo.
Quote from: Quarterbackk on July 27, 2025, 04:16:14 PMMc Cole is not the man for clifford. He is so overhyped this year
The man to mark him hasn't been born lol. It's damage limitation with Clifford and these rules. McCole is a very good defender.
Take the second half off. There will be no collapse. How can Kerry collapse when you can't defence them with the new rules?
Five years from now we'll be wondering how many championships the Kerry dynasty would have won under the old rules.
Quote from: tbrick18 on July 27, 2025, 04:19:33 PMKerry very strong, 7 points at least the better side that first half.
Murphy has been poor for donegal after all the hype, gave the ball away twice and hit the post from an easy free....Clifford scores 7.
Some bright shoots for donegal then a monster 2 pointer to put 7 in it again.
That pitch is hard to look at
Donegal have been better since Thompson went off and you wonder would they be better without Murphy - they need more pace and to be more direct.
Quote from: bennydorano on July 27, 2025, 04:21:05 PMVery hard to see Donegal overcome this, they have improvements in them surely but Kerry look to be cruising, there's more in the tank there for Kerry too.
I certainly gave Ciaran Moore & Langan the kiss of death, both brutal! Only Gallen and O'Donnell have played to the standard required imo.
Yeah both looking dangerous. Big McGee will be on to help around the middle will he?
For all of Kerry's dominance around the middle it has been a game of small
Margins, could equally be a 2 pt game at half time.
Donegal need a change of pace upfront, too pedestrian on and off the ball.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 27, 2025, 04:21:56 PMQuote from: tbrick18 on July 27, 2025, 04:19:33 PMKerry very strong, 7 points at least the better side that first half.
Murphy has been poor for donegal after all the hype, gave the ball away twice and hit the post from an easy free....Clifford scores 7.
Some bright shoots for donegal then a monster 2 pointer to put 7 in it again.
That pitch is hard to look at
Donegal have been better since Thompson went off and you wonder would they be better without Murphy - they need more pace and to be more direct.
That time they got a turnover and it was slipped to Murphy- another player with a bit of pace and it was a goal chance but Murphy took the point
Didn't see this coming. Looks like Donegal goose is cooked. New rules have saved the game but unfortunately for opponents, David Clifford can now flourish. As it should be I suppose..
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 27, 2025, 04:16:28 PMThink the new rules great for Kerry too.
Plenty said that would be the case when the rules was brought in and Kerry shining today.
Neutrals expected good close competitive All-Ireland final and needed after less than great knock out ties and one sided semi-finals so hopefully a kick in Donegal 2nd half.
Donegal learning it's very difficult to play counterattacking football when you're multiple scores behind.
Good.
Quote from: BigGreenField on July 27, 2025, 04:22:30 PMFor all of Kerry's dominance around the middle it has been a game of small
Margins, could equally be a 2 pt game at half time.
Donegal need a change of pace upfront, too pedestrian on and off the ball.
that's an extremely optimistic reading of the half time state!
O'Connor a massive addition for Kerry. Clifford is amazing - he's just unmarkable if the ball gets into him and with O'Connor doing what he's doing and Paudie Clifford running free that's what is happening.
I still hope Donegal can pull it back a bit here but you have to hand it to Kerry here - they've been amazing.
Congratulations to kerry. Think they will go on to dominate football for next 10 years.
McGuinness has exposed as one trick pony.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 27, 2025, 04:21:56 PMQuote from: tbrick18 on July 27, 2025, 04:19:33 PMKerry very strong, 7 points at least the better side that first half.
Murphy has been poor for donegal after all the hype, gave the ball away twice and hit the post from an easy free....Clifford scores 7.
Some bright shoots for donegal then a monster 2 pointer to put 7 in it again.
That pitch is hard to look at
Donegal have been better since Thompson went off and you wonder would they be better without Murphy - they need more pace and to be more direct.
Think they might be better off without Murphy now too.
7 points easy enough clawed back under new rules.
DnG could have been buried but still hanging in there.
DnG kicking into 2pt end, can't be as bad again and McGuiness will reset what they are doing ...just depends if JoC has something to respond with.
DnG with better bench too (marginally)
Still think there will be just a kick of the ball in it at the end
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 27, 2025, 04:22:56 PMThat time they got a turnover and it was slipped to Murphy- another player with a bit of pace and it was a goal chance but Murphy took the point
Kerry had two men covering ffs. I know you all think Murphy is the devil but Billy Whizz wasn't getting in on goal there. Clipping a sensible point isn't really a stick to beat him with.
Utterly moronic from donegal , the set piece was telegraphed 2 minutes in advance and still allowed it.
5 points much easier for the restart. Stranger things have happened but you would expect Kerry to power home.
Kerry 13 scores from 19 shots
Donegal 10 scores from 12 shots
Half time odds Kerry 1/5 Donegal 9/2
Not sure McBrearty is the man to change this. They need pace more than anything.
😂😂😂 Paudie is a joke of a player
Kerry starting where they left off!
2 soft frees for DnG in a row there.
He's letting other challenges go. That's all I'll say
Ref keeping Donegal in it
Quote from: tyroneman on July 27, 2025, 04:41:20 PM2 soft frees for DnG in a row there.
extremely. although kerry got a soft one in first half too
Donegal still there, but Kerry playing all the fball.
Why would Murphy not hut that free from outside the arc?
O Baoíl was coming forward and had two big swinging arms smashed around him with nothing given. Ref having no bearing on the game ffs.
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 27, 2025, 04:43:12 PMWhy would Murphy not hut that free from outside the arc?
The foul was inside. He can't just take it out for the craic if he fancies it.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 04:42:50 PMDonegal still there, but Kerry playing all the fball.
It is just so much easier for Kerry. They are making it look easy really.
Ref giving dongeal a few soft frees
Donegal a bit hit and hope on these long kickouts, could get a goal if space behind but at the moment coming back at them far too much.
Ref suddenly giving frees. Mchugh made no impression on that game off injured.p
Ref having an impact now. Seanie just stood the man up and stood his ground and called for a foul
Tyrone v Kerry was the final
Should have brought Moore back and bring on someone who can kick scores when McHugh went off. Both Moore and O'Donnell have been poor and offer no scoring threat.
He only got that one because I called him out.
Donegal far too slow breaking forward. Lack of confidence in the forward line.
Taking Gallen off is a mistake. Offers a goal threat if nothing else.
20 mins to play Kerry 0-21 Donegal 0-16
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 04:53:12 PMTaking Gallen off is a mistake. Offers a goal threat if nothing else.
💯 very surprised at that.
Kerry haven't had too many scorable frees
DnG getting away with a lot more than Kerry atm.
He's giving some very handy frees so he is. Sean O'Se and Paudie looked to have been fouled worse than whatever that was given for
I wondered who mcbrearty would come on for. O'Donnell playing too well and they wouldn't bring murphy's leadership off the way this game is.
Donegal showing good fight here.
DC has vanished like a fart in the wind in the last 15 minutes.
Kerry out of sight if ref wasnt giving donegal non existent frees
White giving Moore some roasting. Game still there to be won.
Donegal getting sone soft frees shall we say to keep them in it. We see if Clifford gets the same.
Ref allowing Donegal back into it seems to me
Cawley very harsh on kerry
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 04:57:14 PMKerry out of sight if ref wasnt giving donegal non existent frees
They've scored at least 3 points from handy enough ones that Kerry don't seem to be getting at the other end
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 27, 2025, 04:56:28 PMDC has vanished like a fart in the wind in the last 15 minutes.
Not a lot of ball being played to him. Gavin White still opening up Donegal. Kerry fouling ensures no goal chances and Donegal need a goal.
O'Se didn't get the same one 30 secs ago
Jesus how hard do kerry have to work to get a free.
Quote from: thebigfullforward on July 27, 2025, 04:59:04 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 04:57:14 PMKerry out of sight if ref wasnt giving donegal non existent frees
They've scored at least 3 points from handy enough ones that Kerry don't seem to be getting at the other end
No but he lets Gavin White take ten steps and Paul Murphy touch the ball on the ground twice in the space of about 3 seconds, so six of one etc
Kerry could lose this with pedestrian build up in this half. If they lose momentum can they pick it up. Big 2 point effort coming up
Surely Clifford puts that free over no bother
White over carried there and then Paudie given a free where he holds the ball and charges backwards into a lad.
But sure hey, he's trying to help out St. Michael.
Moany saps the lot of you.
Apparently a breeze there.why O'Shea not take it
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 05:00:28 PMJesus how hard do kerry have to work to get a free.
I must be watching a different game. I have kerry at plus 2 from soft decisions
If there's one thing GAA people love to give off about its a referee.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 05:00:33 PMQuote from: thebigfullforward on July 27, 2025, 04:59:04 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 04:57:14 PMKerry out of sight if ref wasnt giving donegal non existent frees
They've scored at least 3 points from handy enough ones that Kerry don't seem to be getting at the other end
No but he lets Gavin White take ten steps and Paul Murphy touch the ball on the ground twice in the space of about 3 seconds, so six of one etc
You don't think Donegal are getting away with more aggressive tackling? That's definitely an opinion
Bad wides from big scoring opportunities for Donegal in this 2nd half.
Really bad miss from O'Donnell there. He's been excellent but has had two really, really bad ones.
Fitzmaurice very hard to listen to at the best of times never mind in a AI final involving Kerry.
How RTE can't find a co-commentator with no allegiance shows where they are at....
A couple of handy ones to Kerry in last few minutes.
Is that a 2 pointer or 1? Looks like O'Shea finished the kick inside the big arc
Are donegal the new dublin with the constant booing. Horrible stuff
Surely Donegal have to go for 2 pointers in last 10 mins?
Donegal getting their frees alot easier in thec2nd half, that's obvious. Wonder why O'Shea didn't get the last one.
Donegal not a two-pointer? Am I right? The losing of this game
Kerry should've kept the ball for a few minutes there
Quote from: Tatler Jack on July 27, 2025, 05:03:36 PMA couple of handy ones to Kerry in last few minutes.
Handy?? Jesus unless theres nearly blood kerry aren't getting a free
Some gurning about the ref ffs. Anything he has given has been a foul.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 27, 2025, 05:04:04 PMIs that a 2 pointer or 1? Looks like O'Shea finished the kick inside the big arc
Nah, was outside.
The 2pt arc def takes away from team going for a goal
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 05:04:25 PMDonegal getting their frees alot easier in thec2nd half, that's obvious. Wonder why O'Shea didn't get the last one.
Kerry 1 pointers are even counted as 2
QuoteDonegal not a two-pointer? Am I right? The losing of this game
Agree
7 point lead for Kerry with 9 minutes left.
Think Clifford should have went for goal there.
Stake in heart moment missed
I see that all yr, man kicking the ball outside the arc ending up inside it as he kicks
Donegal not really playing like a team down by 7 here.
That a foul on O'connor there, no different that the McGee one he give.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 27, 2025, 05:06:18 PMQuoteDonegal not a two-pointer? Am I right? The losing of this game
Agree
They never do. When teams hit the, for it they've to work too hard to claw back. Still don't think McGuinness has fully adapted to the new rules...
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 27, 2025, 05:04:30 PMDonegal not a two-pointer? Am I right? The losing of this game
Yes and even now with 7 mins left they aren't even trying to go for 2 pointers.
The referee hasn't made a difference ffs. He's been very good. Far better team have won.
Think that was a foul on Langan too.
That was a foul for Donegal...
Donegals main men haven't shown up today.
Kerry should just keep possession. Not sure why they aren't
This 2nd half isn't exactly high quality is it. Kerry don't mind as they've always had that 4 point gap at minimum, but for the life of me I don't understand what Donegal are at. They've come back into it at times but are always kept at arms length. Not even a sniff of a goal chances or even an attempt at a 2-pointer. They've a bit of a gap to make up and the minutes are running out. They aren't winning this by tapping over the odd point and getting frees in close
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 27, 2025, 05:08:47 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 27, 2025, 05:06:18 PMQuoteDonegal not a two-pointer? Am I right? The losing of this game
Agree
They never do. When teams hit the, for it they've to work too hard to claw back. Still don't think McGuinness has fully adapted to the new rules...
Yet all year long they've had lads who've shown they can hit them. Thompson and Langan obviously but O Baoíl was hitting plenty of them in the league
Donegal only 2pt shooters are Murphy, Thompsn(off) and Daire.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 27, 2025, 05:06:18 PMQuoteDonegal not a two-pointer? Am I right? The losing of this game
Agree
It's way more than that their decision making and execution has been woeful throughout and their big players have been anonymous!
Kerry have been very average this second half it's been a poor final!
Quote from: oakleafgael on July 27, 2025, 05:05:05 PMSome gurning about the ref ffs. Anything he has given has been a foul.
Ah come on soft of them even the commentators were questioning them. Never mind the consistency in the decisions
Why O'Se isn't kicking those I don't know
Poor final. Donegal didn't perform at all. Simples.
Ryan had a poor game, O'Shea should hit all of those. Bad miss for the goal, should went by the keeper
Wtf was Patton at there? Could and should have been there before Clifford.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 05:12:00 PMQuote from: oakleafgael on July 27, 2025, 05:05:05 PMSome gurning about the ref ffs. Anything he has given has been a foul.
Ah come on soft of them even the commentators were questioning them. Never mind the consistency in the decisions
Who was questioning them? I never heard anything like that?
O'Baoil has been shocking since he's come on!
7 point gap with 4 minutes left, same margin as half time.
Kerry just have to hold it now.
Donegal just revert to safety ball. Frustrating to watch.
As I expected the inexperience told.
Funny watching 3 Donegal players on the other side of half way , watching the play
Like they were waiting for a bus
Whos MOTM, 2 massive games from the Clifford's, and G White. O'Connor good first half but went out if it 2nd half.
Donegal not really built to chase games against elite opposition. Too ponderous and not enough pace. Kerry scoring blitz in the first half would have exhausted them.
Paudie MOTM for sure but they'll give it to David.
Donegal losing this game with an awful whimper. Didn't even have a proper crack at any point this half. They're so drilled to play that conservative game of working it in close (or even standing off in defence and letting Kerry have the ball), that they've never come close to going for the goals that they've needed
McBrearty potshot with about 5 mins to go must have been their first effort at a 2 pointer. Donegal played this game as if it was under the old rules.
McGuinness not the genius everybody makes out. Kept with zonal marking, didn't pick up P Clifford but Kerry simply better players and alot better team. From what I see there, there's not a All-Ireland in that Donegal team.
I think Paudie will get motm. David quieter second half.
Much better team won. That is some team.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 05:16:25 PMDonegal not really built to chase games against elite opposition. Too ponderous and not enough pace. Kerry scoring blitz in the first half would have exhausted them.
Paudie MOTM for sure but they'll give it to David.
Donegal have pace but they've didn't use it to any effect today!
Does that give O'Connor MOTM now?? It's between him Paudie and David.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 05:16:25 PMDonegal not really built to chase games against elite opposition. Too ponderous and not enough pace. Kerry scoring blitz in the first half would have exhausted them.
Paudie MOTM for sure but they'll give it to David.
Gavin White MOTM for me.
Considering the strength of their bench, McGuinness has got this one badly wrong. O'Donnell and Moore haven't really contributed anything at all and they needed scores.
Talent vs obsessive manager with a system. Talent always wins
Quote from: screenexile on July 27, 2025, 05:18:30 PMDoes that give O'Connor MOTM now?? It's between him Paudie and David.
O'Connor wasn't in the second half at all until the goal.
Gavin White, Paudie, Joe 0'Connor and David, that should be the potm order.
I'm rarely happy when Kerry win but to be honest, Jimmy's desperate attempts to ruin football, mean I can never sympathise with Donegal when he's involved. Skill and determination trumped tactics. That's a good thing for the game
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 05:16:25 PMDonegal not really built to chase games against elite opposition. Too ponderous and not enough pace. Kerry scoring blitz in the first half would have exhausted them.
Paudie MOTM for sure but they'll give it to David.
Thought Gavin White motm
QuoteQuoteDonegal not really built to chase games against elite opposition. Too ponderous and not enough pace. Kerry scoring blitz in the first half would have exhausted them.
Paudie MOTM for sure but they'll give it to David.
Gavin White MOTM for me.
And me
Quote from: thewobbler on July 27, 2025, 05:20:04 PMGavin White, Paudie, Joe 0'Connor and David, that should be the potm order.
I'm rarely happy when Kerry win but to be honest, Jimmy's desperate attempts to ruin football, mean I can never sympathise with Donegal when he's involved. Skill and determination trumped tactics. That's a good thing for the game
Joe O'Connor been a better player than Paudie throughout the year
Jimmy's losing finals.
FT Kerry 1-26 Donegal 0-19. Icing on the Kerry cake was the goal. Biggest winning margin in AI final since 2007?
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 27, 2025, 05:20:16 PMQuoteQuoteDonegal not really built to chase games against elite opposition. Too ponderous and not enough pace. Kerry scoring blitz in the first half would have exhausted them.
Paudie MOTM for sure but they'll give it to David.
Gavin White MOTM for me.
And me
Me also. Closely followed by P Clifford.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 05:18:17 PMMcGuinness not the genius everybody makes out. Kept with zonal marking, didn't pick up P Clifford but Kerry simply better players and alot better team. From what I see there, there's not a All-Ireland in that Donegal team.
No there's not. Tyrone over the next few years probably the only team that will get close to Kerry.
Congratulations to Kerry, felt like a team with a real seige mentality/grievance beat a team trying to fabricate one all year.
Congratulations to Kerry. Far and away the better team on the day. Paudie Clifford and Gavin White just brilliant. David Clifford on the periphery (by design?) but absolutely killed us when he did get on the ball.
Poor performance for the most part from our men and they'll have a lot of regrets, but nothing but gratitude from this supporter for a great year.
David most certainly taking offence to Jim's comments haha
Thats a sickener for Donegal. Kerry had the measure of them from the start.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 05:19:24 PMTalent vs obsessive manager with a system. Talent always wins
That's simply not true at all. Kerry have their own terrific coaching setup.
Late goal makes the scoreline look a bit more reflective of the game, Kerry way better and played it in 2nd gear for that 2nd half
Seen some talk in the build up of McGuiness potentially having something up his sleeve for this matchup, something he's been holding in reserve all year. Well that's just proven to be completely false. Did the same thing they've been doing all year, even when it wasn't working for them and they needed to try something different. Donegal are just so tied to this way of playing that they seem incapable of changing things up when they need to
Disappointing final. Donegal never really laid a glove on Kerry. That said, Kerry were excellent in the first half, and were in cruise control in the second. They've set the bar high for 2026.
What was the story taking off Oisin Gallen, was he injured? Huge mistake.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Expected 4 point but this is some statement.
McGuinness just ignored the two pointers. Jack embraced them. Kerrys defence put in a serious shift.
Quality team hammer Donegal. Shin é
Here comes the Jarlath show
Sounded like Jarlath was retiring Michael Murphy in his speech.
Paudi clifford 76 posessions.Did Jim and the boys not watch what conor meyler did in 21.
They going to be stronger nxt yr. all the injuries has allowed them to blood new players. Don't want hear anymore arguments about D Clifford and who's better than him.
Quote from: thebigfullforward on July 27, 2025, 05:20:53 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 27, 2025, 05:20:04 PMGavin White, Paudie, Joe 0'Connor and David, that should be the potm order.
I'm rarely happy when Kerry win but to be honest, Jimmy's desperate attempts to ruin football, mean I can never sympathise with Donegal when he's involved. Skill and determination trumped tactics. That's a good thing for the game
Joe O'Connor been a better player than Paudie throughout the year
Yes, but for some reason, the MOTM award isn't supposed to take into account how you played in a league game in early March.
Cream of the crop always rises to the top.
Best team won. Donegal certainly made a game of it in 2nd half but just could not break out of their system and take some risks. Phenomenal game by Gavin White, still full of energy at the end. Kerry are just class footballers and have been great to watch all year. Tough however on an old warrior like Michael Murphy. Hard luck to Donegal and well done The Kingdom.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 05:23:21 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 05:19:24 PMTalent vs obsessive manager with a system. Talent always wins
That's simply not true at all. Kerry have their own terrific coaching setup.
It's different though. Donegal steadfastly continue to play a system developed for the old rules.
Kerry mirrored that at times today, but their willingness to man mark one on one, and kick first, run second, provided the biggest separation between the teams today. Kerry can do tactical football, clearly. But Donegal only do tactical football.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 05:18:17 PMMcGuinness not the genius everybody makes out. Kept with zonal marking, didn't pick up P Clifford but Kerry simply better players and alot better team. From what I see there, there's not a All-Ireland in that Donegal team.
He is a very good manager in that he rallied a disorganised mess of a squad going nowhere, galvanized them and made them one of the best sides in the game. They're still a bit short though and his tactics were off today as well.
Anti-climax of a final. Whenever Donegal threatened to get close they invariably made bad decisions when the chances were there to get it down to 3. I'm not convinced they ever had it in them to win anyway.
Unfortunate after a promising summer that we had 2 poor semis and poor final with a sanitised version of football. Plenty to ponder.
Congratulations to Kerry.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:22:00 PMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 05:18:17 PMMcGuinness not the genius everybody makes out. Kept with zonal marking, didn't pick up P Clifford but Kerry simply better players and alot better team. From what I see there, there's not a All-Ireland in that Donegal team.
No there's not. Tyrone over the next few years probably the only team that will get close to Kerry.
Possibly, but will need to unearth a few more midfield options. The importance of it shown today.
What comments did McGuinness make that people are taking exception to??
Kerry simply better. However a few killer blows with both Thompson and McHugh going off injured. I think Kerry would have still won but with less to spare.
Well done Kerry all to easy for them against a Donegal side not at the races and basically had that final lost after 20 minutes.
All knock out games either poor or one sided food for thought for those over the new rules and before they are locked in for a few years.
Will Murphy go back into retirement now?
Had Clifford scored that goal it been really been a massacre on the scoreboard.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 05:26:44 PMQuote from: thebigfullforward on July 27, 2025, 05:20:53 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 27, 2025, 05:20:04 PMGavin White, Paudie, Joe 0'Connor and David, that should be the potm order.
I'm rarely happy when Kerry win but to be honest, Jimmy's desperate attempts to ruin football, mean I can never sympathise with Donegal when he's involved. Skill and determination trumped tactics. That's a good thing for the game
Joe O'Connor been a better player than Paudie throughout the year
Yes, but for some reason, the MOTM award isn't supposed to take into account how you played in a league game in early March.
Read it as poty 🙈
Back to the studio Murphy, or turkey.
Today was skill vs system.
And no brains to let PC have the running of the pitch and not be marked.
Quote from: OakLeaf on July 27, 2025, 05:31:32 PMWill Murphy go back into retirement now?
The gulf between both teams would make it hard for him to come back.
Quote from: Schkite on July 27, 2025, 05:23:44 PMLate goal makes the scoreline look a bit more reflective of the game, Kerry way better and played it in 2nd gear for that 2nd half
Seen some talk in the build up of McGuiness potentially having something up his sleeve for this matchup, something he's been holding in reserve all year. Well that's just proven to be completely false. Did the same thing they've been doing all year, even when it wasn't working for them and they needed to try something different. Donegal are just so tied to this way of playing that they seem incapable of changing things up when they need to
💯 jim same as last time. System build on either being in front or close to opposition. Cant claw back big margins. Jim has a system and expects players to work into it rather than design a system to suit his talented players.
Reason why he failed at soccer
He see out another year, played rightly this year, but he simply cant go 70mins, maybe Donegal see sense and use him last 25/30mins in a game. J O'Connor picking up a 5th All-Ireland.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 05:26:28 PMThey going to be stronger nxt yr. all the injuries has allowed them to blood new players. Don't want hear anymore arguments about D Clifford and who's better than him.
His brother is better than him.
Kerry need to beat Meath before I can't take them seriously as champions. ;D
Kerry played with some serious spite & motivation, hard to do that year on year tho.
Quote from: thejuice on July 27, 2025, 05:36:31 PMKerry need to beat Meath before I can't take them seriously as champions. ;D
Jayus, don't get DunneRoyal going again :) Youse can be thankful you weren't up against that Kerry team today.
Quote from: OakLeaf on July 27, 2025, 05:40:09 PMQuote from: thejuice on July 27, 2025, 05:36:31 PMKerry need to beat Meath before I can't take them seriously as champions. ;D
Jayus, don't get DunneRoyal going again :) Youse can be thankful you weren't up against that Kerry team today.
Sure Look it, We have to take something out of it.
Honestly didn't think Kerry had it in them looking at them earlier in the year.
QuoteSounded like Jarlath was retiring Michael Murphy in his speech.
Nah, the FRC are sure to draw up more rules that he can get away with next year
Quote from: bennydorano on July 27, 2025, 05:23:58 PMWhat was the story taking off Oisin Gallen, was he injured? Huge mistake.
Playing poorly but thought a poor call given he at least is a goal threat.
Jack O Connor confirmed on Rte radio 1 he is to step down as manager. Going out on a high.
Quote from: rodney trotter on July 27, 2025, 05:45:03 PMJack O Connor confirmed on Rte radio 1 he is to step down as manager. Going out on a high.
Give him a few years and he'll be back again.
Kerry tested all way through championship, DnG had it relatively easy to make the final.
Made all the difference in the end.
Very disappointing final.
Both semi-finals were very poor.
Donegal were very poor today. I thought they'd have been better. To not man mark Paudie Clifford is very basic by Mc Guinness I think. They let him have freedom of the pitch.
Donegal lacked energy from the start - looked jaded I thought. 11 games in championship this year. Maybe 1 game too many?
In fairness, getting beat by Mesth was the best thing to happen to Kerry. It i.e. the internal grief they got in Kerry, set the focus for the rest of the year.
Well deserved league and championship winners in 2025.
Where does McGuinness go from here now that his aura is well and truly smashed?
Quote from: Tubberman on July 27, 2025, 05:56:20 PMWhere does McGuinness go from here now that his aura is well and truly smashed?
Going to be interesting that one.
1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Kerry magnificent. Donegal were shown up badly. Beat all over the pitch. Seriously overrated team. Inability to take 2 pointers.
Where did.all the hype come from
From the very 1st minute Kerry we're on top. As comfortable as all Ireland final as I remember.
Quote from: snoopdog on July 27, 2025, 06:01:03 PMKerry magnificent. Donegal were shown up badly. Beat all over the pitch. Seriously overrated team. Inability to take 2 pointers.
Where did.all the hype come from
From the very 1st minute Kerry we're on top. As comfortable as all Ireland final as I remember.
Media driven, donegal fan nostalgia, resurgent Ulster narrative
Jack fair showed them this year
Armagh, Tyrone, Donegal. A clean sweep.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
Kerry the best team this year, by a distance
Kerry used to shat the bed playing ulster in noughties. How the wheals have turned.
Armagh, Tyrone and Donegal all sat down and Kerry didn't even have come out of first gear.
Bar Meath game, Cork in Munster were only team to give Kerry a game.
Another handy All Ireland for Kerry.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 05:02:20 PMApparently a breeze there.why O'Shea not take it
Would have thought he scores that in his sleep tbh.
Quote from: Tubberman on July 27, 2025, 05:56:20 PMWhere does McGuinness go from here now that his aura is well and truly smashed?
What kind of kneejerk nonsense is this?
He took a squad on its knees to two Ulster titles and an AI final appearance.
He's won five Ulster titles in six attempts, three AI final appearances in the same six attempts with one win.
How many other managers have a similar rate of return, especially with one of the lesser counties like Donegal?
He's single handedly responsible for almost half of the senior trophies we've ever won.
One win out of three in AI finals is a poor enough return
Kerry beat Armagh by 8
Tyrone by 6
Donegal by 10
Should be some good Tyrone Kerry tussles in years to come. Closest team to Kerry the year!
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 06:13:55 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
In the Tyrone v Kerry rivalry yes actually.
Embarrassing.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
It always comes back round to Tyrone ;D
Perfect from Kerry. Didn't allow Donegal to play their own game and had the nous not to get sucked into areas where Donegal could counter. Had the hunger and quality to hurt Donegal badly. Very one sided.
Kerry absolutely unbelievable. Thought Donegal would have gotten more of a foothold in midfield than Armagh did, but Kerry seemed to have twice the men around every break ball. Will be very hard stopped next year again. Donegal looked clueless in attack, afraid to go for 2 pointers and some of the balls they tried into Murphy were woeful.
The narrative will be "Donegal failed to fire" rather than Kerry counteracted their game plan. Jack O as usual doesn't get the plaudits.
Had a feeling hed be a huge part of motivation for the Kerry lads. Do it for Jacko
Quote from: An Watcher on July 27, 2025, 06:15:30 PMOne win out of three in AI finals is a poor enough return
Those are the returns for weaker counties.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 06:13:55 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
In the Tyrone v Kerry rivalry yes actually.
Is there such a thing?
Rivalry only in Tyrone heads, Kerry only see Dublin as their rival.
Kerry great performance today. Donegal seem flattered in hindsight by wide margin victories in previous rounds and looks likely it wasnt the best preparation for the challenge today.
Mcguiness will rue the decision not to put someone on paudie clifford he got so much ball early and got settled and helped established the kerry rhythm. Gavin whyte incredible aswell.
Donegals vaunted athletic ability was overstated in the build up, all the top teams are very fit. Kerry dominated possession early and got the stranglehold of the game and never let go. Donegal just not at the same level unfortunately.
I still believe mcguiness is a very good coach to get that team turned around from a low ebb i
Just 2 years ago. Be interesting to see what mcguinness does from here. Murphy will likely walk away now and its hard to see donegal closing the gap next year to kerry who had players injured. Donegal short some forwards in order to close the gap.
Kerry definitely the team to beat next year again.
Donegal defence is way too small, with McCole been cleaned out there was no other option to change him. Kerry unheralded midfield got on top of Langan (poorest game i seen him play this year) until McGee came on. McBearty done, McHugh pass it as well. Murphy can give another yr but off the bench. McGuiness has brought Donegal on really well, bringing C Moore,C O'Donnell, F Roarty in, but they don't have the firepower up front compared to Kerry, Armagh, Galway. Once Murphy goes again,they fall away quickly.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
In historic terms it says a lot about how infrequently Tyrone have gotten to the business end of the championship given this is title 39 for Kerry.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 06:44:18 PMDonegal defence is way too small, with McCole been cleaned out there was no other option to change him. Kerry unheralded midfield got on top of Langan (poorest game i seen him play this year) until McGee came on. McBearty done, McHugh pass it as well. Murphy can give another yr but off the bench. McGuiness has brought Donegal on really well, briinging C Moore,C O'Donnell, F Roarty in, but they don't have the firepower up front compared to Kerry, Armagh, Galway. Once Murphy goes again,they fall away quickly.
Yeah this was the chance for this squad. Will take another rebuild. Armagh tyrone probably best placed to challenge kerry next year in my opinion
The Armagh v Kerry Quarter Final was the de facto final as it turned out. Donegal not at the races, and with MM and PMcB not getting any younger, difficult to see an All Ireland in them at this point.
f**k me,Donegal v Kerry final, yet somehow Tyrone's making it about them!
Quote from: downgael2065 on July 27, 2025, 06:43:13 PMKerry great performance today. Donegal seem flattered in hindsight by wide margin victories in previous rounds and looks likely it wasnt the best preparation for the challenge today.
Mcguiness will rue the decision not to put someone on paudie clifford he got so much ball early and got settled and helped established the kerry rhythm. Gavin whyte incredible aswell.
Donegals vaunted athletic ability was overstated in the build up, all the top teams are very fit. Kerry dominated possession early and got the stranglehold of the game and never let go. Donegal just not at the same level unfortunately.
I still believe mcguiness is a very good coach to get that team turned around from a low ebb i
Just 2 years ago. Be interesting to see what mcguinness does from here. Murphy will likely walk away now and its hard to see donegal closing the gap next year to kerry who had players injured. Donegal short some forwards in order to close the gap.
Kerry definitely the team to beat next year again.
Jim will stay until the gravy train runs out. He has no other prospects given his soccer career was awful.
No idea how or why he picked mcbrearty as captain. Hes about 3 years past his prime and at his prime he relied on scoring against weaker opponents to boost his image. A leader he is not.
Jim came back relying on his previous system and completely ignoring the new rule changes. Did donegal even have a 2 point effort ?
Couldn't believe that they didn't try some 2 pointers. Fairly obvious they were told not too until it was too late.
Also, sat in defence for far too long. With 15 mins to go, they were still at it
Very disappointed in Donegal today. From breaking early from the parade(disrespectful to the band and tradition) to not laying a glove on Kerry it was a day to forget.
Kerry however from the first whistle were absolutely superb. Gavin Whyte was incredible. Paudie Clifford was majestic. Joe O'Connor an absolute mountain in midfield. Deserved winners. Best team throughout the Championship by a fair distance.
Kerry were the best team by a mile but Donegal were probably second best.
McGuinness seemed to back his system today and didn't come up with any special plans. Either his says or his players were not as good as he thought they were - maybe both. I do think he hasn't adapted to the new rules.
Quote from: downgael2065 on July 27, 2025, 06:43:13 PMKerry great performance today. Donegal seem flattered in hindsight by wide margin victories in previous rounds and looks likely it wasnt the best preparation for the challenge today.
Mcguiness will rue the decision not to put someone on paudie clifford he got so much ball early and got settled and helped established the kerry rhythm. Gavin whyte incredible aswell.
Donegals vaunted athletic ability was overstated in the build up, all the top teams are very fit. Kerry dominated possession early and got the stranglehold of the game and never let go. Donegal just not at the same level unfortunately.
I still believe mcguiness is a very good coach to get that team turned around from a low ebb i
Just 2 years ago. Be interesting to see what mcguinness does from here. Murphy will likely walk away now and its hard to see donegal closing the gap next year to kerry who had players injured. Donegal short some forwards in order to close the gap.
Kerry definitely the team to beat next year again.
In hindsight the Meath semi-final in particular was a serious pitfall.
The standard of the Meath defending was zero use wkatsoever in preparing for Kerry's defensive performance today. Just absolute miles apart in terms of intensity and workrate. Donegal joining the list of sides who blow away a side in an All-Ireland semi-final and then go on to turn in a flat performance in the final.
Can't help but wondering if they made the right decision to start Murphy?
He really looked a spent force down the closing straight.
He never looked like he had 70 minutes in him the whole year.
Kerry injured lads didn't seem to affect them much if it all - Paudie was immense - 76 possessions in an All-Ireland final. Completely dictated things. Diarmuid O'Connor didn't have much of an impact but he did a bit when he came on got on a few balls and Paul Geaney made no appearance. I thought these three would be key and I was a third right. Giving Paudie Clifford freedom of the park will go down as one of the great tactical gaffes in an All-Ireland.
People going on about the standard of the game - I thought the standard was decent for a final especially in the first half where there was barely a wide kicked between the two sides. The fact that Donegal didn't come out and try and put more pressure on Kerry in possession until there was five or so minutes left was mind-boggling.
Still amazed at the Kerry starting midfield of Mark O'Shea and Sean O'Brien - they look a good bit off some of the traditional classic Kerry standard of midfielder but both have All-Ireland medals in their pockets now so I'd say they don't care a whit
Kerry deserving winners. Intercounty done for the year. Roll on the serious business of club action.
Tyrone eejits and Armagh eejits squabbling over their position based on the extent of the tanking Kerry doled out to them.
Tyrone lost to Armagh and Mayo in games that mattered.
Armagh collapsed completely and managed to lose an AIQF in 20 mins.
But somehow Kerry will be telling themselves they really won the thing when they overcame one or the other.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 07:00:59 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:18:35 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 06:13:55 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
In the Tyrone v Kerry rivalry yes actually.
Embarrassing.
Yeah sure it is.
Massively so. Kerry people don't give a f**k about you. It's not 2008.
If the thread is to degenerate via Tyrone inspired delusion- You could at least make a claim that while we got tanked, Armagh were caught cold, Tyrone & Donegal have no such excuse, they were well warned, Kerry's full hand was laid bare for all to see and they still got their arses handed to them. Despite all the post game delight in our defeat I think Armagh are in a good place - maybe 1 or 2 retirements are expected but as long as McGeeney stays we'll be there or thereabouts.
Small gripe but Donegal have been at this 'we'll do our own thing' shit for ages, taking a lifetime to come out for second half, not joining the parade today for well over a minute when they were supposed to, then breaking away ridiculously early.
Psychology shite that fell on its face today.
As for the game, Jacko pulled a masterstroke playing David way out on the right wing and nearly back on the 45. Pulled Donegal defence zone far enough over to leave a load of space down the left and softer Channel up the middle. Donegal don't do well when 5 plus points behind. The monaghan game was a false flag as monaghan had a complete system crash.
Kerry best team this year, one thing rarely mentioned is their size and power. Completely overran Armagh, Tyrone and now Donegal.
Be interesting to see how the next few years pan out. Fair play to the kingdom on a great year.
Was today the last throw of the dice for Donegal? Murphy soon to be 36, hard to see how he will be back. If McGuinness goes as well they could end up in a worse position than when he came in last season. But if he stays then going forward he would have to completely overhaul his tactics.
Quote from: omagh_gael on July 27, 2025, 07:12:59 PMKerry best team this year, one thing rarely mentioned is their size and power. Completely overran Armagh, Tyrone and now Donegal.
They've got really solid, above average performances from the likes of Mark O'Shea but Joe O'Connor's influence has been transformative.
Clifford will win POTY, but take O'Connor and his power out and Kerry don't win it this.
And they lost and never got Barry Dan back either.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 07:18:19 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 07:09:01 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 07:00:59 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:18:35 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 06:13:55 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
In the Tyrone v Kerry rivalry yes actually.
Embarrassing.
Yeah sure it is.
Massively so. Kerry people don't give a f**k about you. It's not 2008.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 07:09:01 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 07:00:59 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:18:35 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 06:13:55 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
In the Tyrone v Kerry rivalry yes actually.
Embarrassing.
Yeah sure it is.
Massively so. Kerry people don't give a f**k about you. It's not 2008.
2021
Lmao, you think Kerry people are still thinking or talking about '21? Since when they've tanked you twice.
They both stay another year, but I wouldn't expect to see Murphy to the 1st Rd in Ulster and only as a 2nd half sub. Fitness is gone as it does most at that age.Unless Donegal change to man to man marking, bring in a few bigger lads in Defence, and find a few big forwards I wouldn't expect to see them bck in a semi, foreby a final.
Quote from: seafoid on July 27, 2025, 06:33:18 PMQuote from: An Watcher on July 27, 2025, 06:15:30 PMOne win out of three in AI finals is a poor enough return
Those are the returns for weaker counties.
What's Galway's recent record. 0/2
I agree mcguinness has to embrace the rules more in terms of 2 pointers and be more willing to adjust tactically. Hes a great coach amd motivator but he never seems to stray from the zonal defense at all.
I dont think murphy will be return but definitely could be useful as an impact sub next year. He definitely exceeded expectations this year and very high level performance at 35 but its unforgiving in the later stages of all Ireland. It was clever by kerry to target his marker for the short kick outs.
I don't think it's likely but its not impossible that murphy and mcguiness step away.
Still that lad Okunbor to come bck do.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 07:18:19 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 07:09:01 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 07:00:59 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:18:35 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 06:13:55 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
In the Tyrone v Kerry rivalry yes actually.
Embarrassing.
Yeah sure it is.
Massively so. Kerry people don't give a f**k about you. It's not 2008.
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 07:09:01 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 07:00:59 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:18:35 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 06:13:55 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 06:07:26 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 05:59:29 PM1986 Final aside that is the first time Kerry have went to win it after beating Tyrone.
Do people actually give a f**k or think this means something?
In the Tyrone v Kerry rivalry yes actually.
Embarrassing.
Yeah sure it is.
Massively so. Kerry people don't give a f**k about you. It's not 2008.
2021
It's not 2021 either mate
Quote from: gallsman on July 27, 2025, 07:19:02 PMQuote from: omagh_gael on July 27, 2025, 07:12:59 PMKerry best team this year, one thing rarely mentioned is their size and power. Completely overran Armagh, Tyrone and now Donegal.
They've got really solid, above average performances from the likes of Mark O'Shea but Joe O'Connor's influence has been transformative.
Clifford will win POTY, but take O'Connor and his power out and Kerry don't win it this.
And they lost and never got Barry Dan back either.
O'Connor was superb. Will be up there for FOTY
Yes, as an Antrim man, absolutely what you've done is "trigger" me.
Rather we're all just laughing at you.
The worst part is Tyrone have, all things considered, had a solid year and can be genuinely excited about the future with 2xU20s, 2xHogans and a minor in the bag the last couple of years. What they should not be doing is attempting to big up any sort of rivalry with Kerry that, right now, simply doesn't exist.
How can we make this about Tyrone ::)
Always the same around here.
Lads and ladies. Stop talking abour tyrone and kerry.
Where did kerry win it. Where did donegal lose it. Thats the talking points.
Yeah another 3 Kerry All-Irelands over the nxt 5yrs.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 07:36:11 PMLads and ladies. Stop talking abour tyrone and kerry.
Where did kerry win it. Where did donegal lose it. Thats the talking points.
Can't you read? At full time in the Armagh game apparently.
If McGuinness is such a spoofer, as many on here would have you believe, then what does that say for the managers of the other 30 Counties that didn't make the AIF?!
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 07:36:11 PMLads and ladies. Stop talking abour tyrone and kerry.
Where did kerry win it. Where did donegal lose it. Thats the talking points.
Kerry won it by blitzing Donegal early on similar to the 2006 Final V Mayo. Back then then they relied on early goals for shock and awe but this time around 2 pointers were enough from the players that they had capable of doing so.
Kerry got a All-Ireland with a unexperienced Casey,D Geaney, Mark O'Shea, O'Brien on board. G O'Sullivam playing out of position and a no.of men injured. Will be a big choice on their new manager but they suddenly put a tried and tested panel together which they previously didn't have.
Quote from: screenexile on July 27, 2025, 07:39:43 PMIf McGuinness is such a spoofer, as many on here would have you believe, then what does that say for the managers of the other 30 Counties that didn't make the AIF?!
Speaking for myself, I never said he was a spoofer. I said his aura was broken, which I doubt you can deny.
I think he's an excellent manager (for a short period of time), but people thought Donegal would win almost solely because of McGuinness.
Kerry were excellent and did their talking on the pitch. Some don't like them, which is usually down to jealousy and begrudgery, but they're consistently producing excellent footballers, and thank god for that.
Quote from: rodney trotter on July 27, 2025, 05:45:03 PMJack O Connor confirmed on Rte radio 1 he is to step down as manager. Going out on a high.
Wonder if we get another book
No they don't like, we take as long as we want at breaks, not bother with parade procedures, we need a break, we not been fairly treated etc, even though they got a fairly easy run to a All-Ireland final. Stupid mind games of oh Jimmy a genius, any genius would man marked P Clifford, and he didn't even though he was eating them.
Donegals inability or at least reluctance when they had got the margin back to 4 in the second half to go for 2pointers is the bit I can't understand. Kerry had shown them how much difference they can make in the first half. If several contributors on here can be believed it's so easy you can score them with ease.
Despite the final margin Donegal were still in this match to quite late on. I think that is what will ultimately haunt them.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 08:02:44 PMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 07:54:25 PMNo they don't like, we take as long as we want at breaks, not bother with parade procedures, we need a break, we not been fairly treated etc, even though they got a fairly easy run to a All-Ireland final. Stupid mind games of oh Jimmy a genius, any genius would man marked P Clifford, and he didn't even though he had eating them.
Paidi Clifford got a lot more room today than he did in an All-Ireland Junior club final. Let that sink in.
In fairness to Jim, the next time Donegal face Paudie Clifford for Fossa, he'll probably not get as much room.
Hammer the hammer! Go after the opposition's key men. Kerry did that very well today and in other recent games. They went after Donegal's main man Murphy by running the legs off him.
Quote from: Mad Mentor on July 27, 2025, 08:01:39 PMDonegals inability or at least reluctance when they had got the margin back to 4 in the second half to go for 2pointers is the bit I can't understand. Kerry had shown them how much difference they can make in the first half. If several contributors on here can be believed it's so easy you can score them with ease.
Despite the final margin Donegal were still in this match to quite late on. I think that is what will ultimately haunt them.
They took Gallen off, 3 x 1pts from play in 1st half but a ropey opening 10min in the second and he's gone. Unless he picked up an injury I think it was a huge mistake.
QuoteQuoteNo they don't like, we take as long as we want at breaks, not bother with parade procedures, we need a break, we not been fairly treated etc, even though they got a fairly easy run to a All-Ireland final. Stupid mind games of oh Jimmy a genius, any genius would man marked P Clifford, and he didn't even though he had eating them.
Paidi Clifford got a lot more room today than he did in an All-Ireland Junior club final. Let that sink in.
Are you saying Donegal should play in the JFC along with Kilkenny, New York ,and Middle Earth?
Quote from: Stickittotheman on July 27, 2025, 07:00:26 PMVery disappointed in Donegal today. From breaking early from the parade(disrespectful to the band and tradition) to not laying a glove on Kerry it was a day to forget.
Kerry however from the first whistle were absolutely superb. Gavin Whyte was incredible. Paudie Clifford was majestic. Joe O'Connor an absolute mountain in midfield. Deserved winners. Best team throughout the Championship by a fair distance.
I was trying to figure out was it disrespect, mind games or just poor preparation. Donegal were still stretching when standing to greet President Higgins. Then went into a final warm up and delayed the start of the parade and had to be called several times. Then after breaking the parade they ran into another huddle before the anthem.
Sorry I'm late to the post match debrief! Have we compared everything to Tyrone yet or have I missed the boat?
Kerry bet 4 Ulster teams in the KO stages.
Quote from: ManFromMoygashel on July 27, 2025, 08:36:12 PMSorry I'm late to the post match debrief! Have we compared everything to Tyrone yet or have I missed the boat?
The general consensus is that Tyrone should have won the McKenna Cup, the League, Ulster and would have won the AI final if they were in the final today.
A team as skillfull as kerry playing with intent is a pleasure to watch.
Making sure they weren't going down the final stretch neck and neck with donegal was the biggest thing.
Watching Donegal they are completely in their comfort zones with tight games, they seemed lost going behind by big margins and Jim didn't seem to have the answer.
Giving paudie a free reign wasn't ideal, but watching David clifford and paudie and Joe o Connor and seanie o shea is a lot to handle.
Kerry are the out and out team, and 6/7 trailing a good bit behind.
Quote from: David McKeown on July 27, 2025, 08:34:14 PMQuote from: Stickittotheman on July 27, 2025, 07:00:26 PMVery disappointed in Donegal today. From breaking early from the parade(disrespectful to the band and tradition) to not laying a glove on Kerry it was a day to forget.
Kerry however from the first whistle were absolutely superb. Gavin Whyte was incredible. Paudie Clifford was majestic. Joe O'Connor an absolute mountain in midfield. Deserved winners. Best team throughout the Championship by a fair distance.
I was trying to figure out was it disrespect, mind games or just poor preparation. Donegal were still stretching when standing to greet President Higgins. Then went into a final warm up and delayed the start of the parade and had to be called several times. Then after breaking the parade they ran into another huddle before the anthem.
It's Jimmy thinking he's a sports psychology genius (sure he has a book). Late out after HT too. His genius had his team chasing shadows for 70 mins and coached so rigidly they were afraid to throw off the shackles and give it a lash in the last 10 minutes when it was clear 2 or 3 pointers were the only way back.
Quote from: David McKeown on July 27, 2025, 08:34:14 PMQuote from: Stickittotheman on July 27, 2025, 07:00:26 PMVery disappointed in Donegal today. From breaking early from the parade(disrespectful to the band and tradition) to not laying a glove on Kerry it was a day to forget.
Kerry however from the first whistle were absolutely superb. Gavin Whyte was incredible. Paudie Clifford was majestic. Joe O'Connor an absolute mountain in midfield. Deserved winners. Best team throughout the Championship by a fair distance.
I was trying to figure out was it disrespect, mind games or just poor preparation. Donegal were still stretching when standing to greet President Higgins. Then went into a final warm up and delayed the start of the parade and had to be called several times. Then after breaking the parade they ran into another huddle before the anthem.
It was mind games that showed a lot of disrespect. Breaking off from the parade was a real lack of class. Really disrespectful to the band as well who would class today as one of the biggest moments of their lives no doubt. Leading the teams around Croke Park.
I am a Derryman and live right on the border. There are loads of family ties between Derry and Donegal. I class them as a county I would wish the best for. Their antics today left a sour taste.
Can't take anything away from Kerry and that was no handy all-Ireland. From the QFs on they beat the three Ulster teams comprehensively!
From an energy conservation strategy POV telling your guys to lash two attempts, leave it till a one point goes over, then lash again just makes sense.
Tis a simple game. McHugh was a big loss as was Thompson as they scored a few during year but on the day Donegal just looked flat and were totally dominated by Kerry half backs
What is the reason for leaving the parade?
Contrast with Jim Gavins utter calmness. The parade stuff set alarm bells off with me, you dont need to be at that crap nor staying in dressing room.
If youre gonna do that then at least come out with passion.
I remain with an earlier thought, the schedule really irks this model due to lack of time needed to really rehearse.
QuoteSorry I'm late to the post match debrief! Have we compared everything to Tyrone yet or have I missed the boat?
You Moygashel boys are mad about the boats
QuoteQuoteQuoteVery disappointed in Donegal today. From breaking early from the parade(disrespectful to the band and tradition) to not laying a glove on Kerry it was a day to forget.
Kerry however from the first whistle were absolutely superb. Gavin Whyte was incredible. Paudie Clifford was majestic. Joe O'Connor an absolute mountain in midfield. Deserved winners. Best team throughout the Championship by a fair distance.
I was trying to figure out was it disrespect, mind games or just poor preparation. Donegal were still stretching when standing to greet President Higgins. Then went into a final warm up and delayed the start of the parade and had to be called several times. Then after breaking the parade they ran into another huddle before the anthem.
It was mind games that showed a lot of disrespect. Breaking off from the parade was a real lack of class. Really disrespectful to the band as well who would class today as one of the biggest moments of their lives no doubt. Leading the teams around Croke Park.
I am a Derryman and live right on the border. There are loads of family ties between Derry and Donegal. I class them as a county I would wish the best for. Their antics today left a sour taste.
Their antics all year left a sour taste for many
Quote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
I can see why teams break off at the hill when playing the Dubs but otherwise I'm not really sure why you would do it.
Quote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
In the hurling games at CP, numerous times one team split early.
I thought Donegal had a number of players who were well capable of scoring points from outside the arc but in this game I think they only had one effort late on. I guess this was a deliberate tactic, to go for the more safer scoring option instead.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 08:53:04 PMWhat is the reason for leaving the parade?
I dunno. Maybe there just wasn't enough time the past fortnight to get across all the messages that players can't operate without, and they needed to create a 30 second window.
Quote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
Armagh broke it last year, IIRC, to treat Blaine Hughes' injury. They got booed.
Quote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
Never seen a team break from the parade as it passes Hill 16. They did the sane in the semi-final. It is disrespectful to the band, to the supporters and to the tradition. And for what? To try and play mind games to gain some sort of advantage. Petty in the extreme.
Quote from: Stickittotheman on July 27, 2025, 09:09:53 PMQuote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
Never seen a team break from the parade as it passes Hill 16. They did the sane in the semi-final. It is disrespectful to the band, to the supporters and to the tradition. And for what? To try and play mind games to gain some sort of advantage. Petty in the extreme.
Definitely have seen it many a time. Think my own county did it in the 93 final against cork
Quote from: Main Street on July 27, 2025, 09:06:52 PMQuote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
In the hurling games at CP, numerous times one team split early.
I thought Donegal had a number of players who were well capable of scoring points from outside the arc but in this game I think they only had one effort late on. I guess this was a deliberate tactic, to go for the more safer scoring option instead.
They just didn't seem to work the openings for two pointers, whether that was deliberate or down to Kerry's defending.
Langan, O'Baoill, McBrearty, Thompson, McHugh, Gallen and Murphy have all hit twos this season, especially Langan, O'Baoill and Thompson.
Thompson's early injury didn't help on that front, but who knows if he would have gotten the opportunity?
Quote from: Main Street on July 27, 2025, 09:06:52 PMQuote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
In the hurling games at CP, numerous times one team split early.
I thought Donegal had a number of players who were well capable of scoring points from outside the arc but in this game I think they only had one effort late on. I guess this was a deliberate tactic, to go for the more safer scoring option instead.
Thompson was a big loss for that, not sure why he took Gallen off as he's good at them too.
Quote from: screenexile on July 27, 2025, 09:06:43 PMQuote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
I can see why teams break off at the hill when playing the Dubs but otherwise I'm not really sure why you would do it.
I think Armagh did it last year in order to hide treatment to Blaine Hughes who had picked up an injury
Quote from: David McKeown on July 27, 2025, 09:28:05 PMQuote from: screenexile on July 27, 2025, 09:06:43 PMQuote from: J70 on July 27, 2025, 08:59:08 PMWhy is the parade a big deal?
I could have sworn I've seen numerous teams break early before, including Donegal in other games this year, unless I'm imagining things.
I can see why teams break off at the hill when playing the Dubs but otherwise I'm not really sure why you would do it.
I think Armagh did it last year in order to hide treatment to Blaine Hughes who had picked up an injury
Yeah was good thinking at the time. Maybe Donegal thought it be lucky
Didn't realise at the time, but Donegal had 16 players out for the parade.
Think McCole did as well as could probably be expected on Clifford, but when hes in that sort of form he only needs a yard and he'll destroy you. Wasn't involved for the vast majority of the game but comes away with 9 from play, class act.
Quote from: Estimator on July 27, 2025, 09:34:05 PMDidn't realise at the time, but Donegal had 16 players out for the parade.
Aye McBrearty as captain but who wasn't starting not sure what protocol is there to be honest.
Well done to Kerry, a brilliant display and by far the better team. Possessions lead to shots and shots lead to scores - we simply didn't have enough possessions because Kerry were so assured for their own KO and did very well against ours. White was class as was P Clifford. Lots of stuff to lament from us but not sure that we were good enough to beat them no matter what. It was a good year in some ways, retained Ulster and went one step further to the final ... but who knows when we'll make it back again.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 27, 2025, 09:04:54 PMQuoteQuoteQuoteVery disappointed in Donegal today. From breaking early from the parade(disrespectful to the band and tradition) to not laying a glove on Kerry it was a day to forget.
Kerry however from the first whistle were absolutely superb. Gavin Whyte was incredible. Paudie Clifford was majestic. Joe O'Connor an absolute mountain in midfield. Deserved winners. Best team throughout the Championship by a fair distance.
I was trying to figure out was it disrespect, mind games or just poor preparation. Donegal were still stretching when standing to greet President Higgins. Then went into a final warm up and delayed the start of the parade and had to be called several times. Then after breaking the parade they ran into another huddle before the anthem.
It was mind games that showed a lot of disrespect. Breaking off from the parade was a real lack of class. Really disrespectful to the band as well who would class today as one of the biggest moments of their lives no doubt. Leading the teams around Croke Park.
I am a Derryman and live right on the border. There are loads of family ties between Derry and Donegal. I class them as a county I would wish the best for. Their antics today left a sour taste.
Their antics all year left a sour taste for many
Absolutely. Love Donegal as a place but their antics this year and the booing at every free completely put me off them
Who got MOTM from Rte?
Hopefully never see Donegal in Croker again. Only for Kerry it would have been as bad as last years final
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 08:02:44 PMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 27, 2025, 07:54:25 PMNo they don't like, we take as long as we want at breaks, not bother with parade procedures, we need a break, we not been fairly treated etc, even though they got a fairly easy run to a All-Ireland final. Stupid mind games of oh Jimmy a genius, any genius would man marked P Clifford, and he didn't even though he had eating them.
Paidi Clifford got a lot more room today than he did in an All-Ireland Junior club final. Let that sink in.
If only Stewartstown was in Donegal!
Quote from: Ethan Tremblay on July 27, 2025, 08:42:32 PMA team as skillfull as kerry playing with intent is a pleasure to watch.
Making sure they weren't going down the final stretch neck and neck with donegal was the biggest thing.
Watching Donegal they are completely in their comfort zones with tight games, they seemed lost going behind by big margins and Jim didn't seem to have the answer.
Giving paudie a free reign wasn't ideal, but watching David clifford and paudie and Joe o Connor and seanie o shea is a lot to handle.
Kerry are the out and out team, and 6/7 trailing a good bit behind.
Yeah hard to argue with that. Armagh left wondering what could have been, we were going well but couldn't find an answer when Kerry hit that top gear, they brought it from the atart against Donegal today who couldn't really get a foothold at all.
Will be tough for Jim to lift those lads again but while I'm no fan of Donegal the job he's done is first rate, to think where they were when he came in to back to back Ulsters and AI semi finalists and finalists is some going.
Big winter to be put in up in Armagh, new voice in to replace big Donaghy, deal with a couple of possible retirements, hopefully we'll not be far away next year.
Jim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
Quote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
Jimmy got it badly wrong today, needed big men on sooner round the middle and trying to go zonal when it was clear from the Armagh game that it wouldn't work was madness.
Jim Gavin said before the match that more rule changes will be brought in if needed. He was obviously nervous about how the game would turn out today with Donegal involved. Big thanks to Kerry and hopefully the beginning of the end of crap football
Are they releasing todays Ref jersey for general sale ? ;D
Quote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
You could be right. Hopefully a lot of outside club coaches get found out over the next year or so and are sent packing.
Quote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
Mcguiness is a fraud and was glad he was found out today. He can take a group of dedicated players and make them into athletics and develop a game plan that requires zero thinking from the players. Robots not footballers.
This is the main reason he failed at soccer is that they aren't dedicated as intercounty players are. Jim couldnt coach any other gaelic team as he relies on the world vs donegal theme which he wrongly set.
Quote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 10:51:19 PMQuote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
You could be right. Hopefully a lot of outside club coaches get found out over the next year or so and are sent packing.
Fingers crossed the Amateur Status review has as much impact as the FRC have had and leads to the death of outside managers/coaches/backroom staff. Serious blight on the game.
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 27, 2025, 11:02:52 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 10:51:19 PMQuote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
You could be right. Hopefully a lot of outside club coaches get found out over the next year or so and are sent packing.
Fingers crossed the Amateur Status review has as much impact as the FRC have had and leads to the death of outside managers/coaches/backroom staff. Serious blight on the game.
I don't know how that'll be stopped.
Quote from: marty34 on July 27, 2025, 11:04:15 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 27, 2025, 11:02:52 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 10:51:19 PMQuote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
You could be right. Hopefully a lot of outside club coaches get found out over the next year or so and are sent packing.
Fingers crossed the Amateur Status review has as much impact as the FRC have had and leads to the death of outside managers/coaches/backroom staff. Serious blight on the game.
I don't know how that'll be stopped.
Simple - the only ones allowed be involved in managmemt of teams are registered club members.
Bring in rules about transferring club membership simple to players transferring clubs.
No payments can be made to outsiders not even expenses.
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 27, 2025, 11:07:24 PMQuote from: marty34 on July 27, 2025, 11:04:15 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 27, 2025, 11:02:52 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 10:51:19 PMQuote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
You could be right. Hopefully a lot of outside club coaches get found out over the next year or so and are sent packing.
Fingers crossed the Amateur Status review has as much impact as the FRC have had and leads to the death of outside managers/coaches/backroom staff. Serious blight on the game.
I don't know how that'll be stopped.
Simple - the only ones allowed be involved in managmemt of teams are registered club members.
Bring in rules about transferring club membership simple to players transferring clubs.
No payments can be made to outsiders not even expenses.
They'll get around that.
McHugh just said on the Sunday Game that perhaps next season coaches will be looking at coaching defenders how to mark one one one as forwards have more space now. Oh really? What have they been coached to do over the last ten years? Its so sad really. Ive berated on here for knowing nothing about football. I coach as a volunteer and I teach kids all the basic skills. Simple skills
Quote from: marty34 on July 27, 2025, 11:08:53 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 27, 2025, 11:07:24 PMQuote from: marty34 on July 27, 2025, 11:04:15 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 27, 2025, 11:02:52 PMQuote from: clarshack on July 27, 2025, 10:51:19 PMQuote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
You could be right. Hopefully a lot of outside club coaches get found out over the next year or so and are sent packing.
Fingers crossed the Amateur Status review has as much impact as the FRC have had and leads to the death of outside managers/coaches/backroom staff. Serious blight on the game.
I don't know how that'll be stopped.
Simple - the only ones allowed be involved in managmemt of teams are registered club members.
Bring in rules about transferring club membership simple to players transferring clubs.
No payments can be made to outsiders not even expenses.
They'll get around that.
At least try something instead of the current situation of doing absolutely nothing.
Score 9pts (6 in the old game) in an all-ireland final from play doesn't count for much these days by the look of it.was the same in the semi or quarter too.l when he scored a fair bit.
Quote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 11:11:05 PMMcHugh just said on the Sunday Game that perhaps next season coaches will be looking at coaching defenders how to mark one one one as forwards have more space now. Oh really? What have they been coached to do over the last ten years? Its so sad really. Ive berated on here for knowing nothing about football. I coach as a volunteer and I teach kids all the basic skills. Simple skills
It is a real shame. The struggle raising money just to splurge it on some chancers.
You'd need some sort of Détente agreed amongst clubs.
Theres serious financial investments with many clubs, that requires ongoing maintenance.
Good coaching is a great skill obviously but then so is whacking two pointers for fun.
Gavin White is a monster; at both throw-ins he burst through like lightning and set the tone for the whole game.
Thought it was a disappointing contest, mainly because Kerry were so superior from an early stage
Donegal a long way of the pace today. Their previous 2 games did them absolutely no favours. It probably flattered them going into today's game. Kerry where at their ruthless best. They earned that one this year. They have the look of a team that are just getting going.
Where now for MM?
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 27, 2025, 10:53:29 PMQuote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
Mcguiness is a fraud and was glad he was found out today. He can take a group of dedicated players and make them into athletics and develop a game plan that requires zero thinking from the players. Robots not footballers.
This is the main reason he failed at soccer is that they aren't dedicated as intercounty players are. Jim couldnt coach any other gaelic team as he relies on the world vs donegal theme which he wrongly set.
What a load of nonsense!
I think you'll find the siege mentality was alive and well in Tyrone long before McGuinness used it!!
Many said Kerry had better opposition heading in. Yep. What's bizarre is how you can look on then setup like donegal did.
Not too many "learnings" taken on board from Tyrone and Armagh encounters with Kerry. Smacks of arrogance or else Jim knew Plan A had to work for them to win. Looks really stupid , utter humiliation when it was unnecessary.
I keep coming back to the time squeeze really being against the Donegals of this world. They just cant fall back on Plan B, too afraid.
Quick successive games suit footballers who can get form going.
Kerry imperious - Donegal muck.
Donegal manager a spoofer.
Thats how the debate flies after this AI final and the level of opinions about the losing team who are Ulster champions and the 2nd best performing team this year.
Its no shame in losing a final. Its the way Donegal play. For neutrals it is muck. No one wants to watch that
As Mickey Harte said: "When you win you've done everything right, when you lose you've done everything wrong".
McGuinness came back in and took Donegal to two Ulster titles and an All Ireland final. Today wasn't a good day. But if he's a useless manager what does it say for all the others?
It says the others are really awful. Ive said this on here before
Clifford had put that goal away would been 13pts in it, bit of annihilation. McGuinness like Harte is very headstrong, when something 90% of people sees needs addressed, it's nearly as if, it's i wouldn't override my methods to change it, and it happen for us.
Quote from: Main Street on July 27, 2025, 11:52:27 PMKerry imperious - Donegal muck.
Donegal manager a spoofer.
Thats how the debate flies after this AI final and the level of opinions about the losing team who are Ulster champions and the 2nd best performing team this year.
Yep, McGuinness a spoofer and Donegal an eyesore.
This place is going the way of the rest of the online world.
Quote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 10:32:05 PMJim the genius with his zonal defensive system and masterful tactics ruined football many years ago and spawned the era of new modern coaches who are making vast amounts of money off every club in Ireland. Today was a good day for football fans all over Ireland
McGuinness didn't ruin the game. He managed within the rules that existed and inspired others to follow his initiative. The GAA had to practically throw out the rule book this year to counter McGuinness' defensive system.
As masterful as Kerry was, and will be in the seasons to come, I'll forever wonder how they would have done facing Armagh, Tyrone & Donegal had the Ulster counties been playing the defensive system they'd built over the years. Instead the FRC basically abolished defensive football for 2025. We'll never find out how great Kerry could have been.
The old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 02:31:01 AMThe old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
I'd take a tight pulsating encounter over the procession that occurred yesterday any day. Two pointers killed yesterday as a contest.
Of the 11 knock out games in the All Ireland series only 3 were decided by a single score.
Last year it was 8 out of 11.
I understand the new rules are here to stay and I think things will improve but I don't think it's improved the game or the entertainment yet.
Quote from: David McKeown on July 28, 2025, 08:07:39 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 02:31:01 AMThe old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
I'd take a tight pulsating encounter over the procession that occurred yesterday any day. Two pointers killed yesterday as a contest.
Of the 11 knock out games in the All Ireland series only 3 were decided by a single score.
Last year it was 8 out of 11.
I understand the new rules are here to stay and I think things will improve but I don't think it's improved the game or the entertainment yet.
100% I'd rather watch a contest as a procession, but Kerry have set the standards now and it's up to Jim, Malachy, Geezer etc to come up with a plan to counteract them.
One thing about Kerry too. They seemed to have significantly more pace than Donegal - even in areas you wouldn't have expected them to.
On McGuinness. McGuinness is no doubt a great coach but he definitely could have done better yesterday. I thought Clifford was right - O'Connor probably doesn't get the credit he deserves. He put in a masterclass tactically.
A masterclass by Kerry made easier by Jimmy getting a lot wrong on the line. Who in their right mind leaves Paudie Clifford unmarked. Their match ups on Kerry were off too. Joe O'Conner dominated the kickouts and Donegal finally put Langan on him late in the game but the damage was done. As for Donegals defence, it was a shambles, split open at will. They took away Pattons kickouts and made him look ordinary. Well done Kerry, a very impressive performance.
I only watched the first half, duty called ffs, but listened on the radio on the way to a game, I can't recall much physicality in the game, it was also clear that Donegal were happy enough to allow Kerry the ball, P Clifford had unlimited time on the ball which enabled him to set up plays and O'Connor lorded it on the kick outs that went long..
You wouldn't have said Donegal were a soft team but on the first half performance they didn't lay a glove on them
Quote from: David McKeown on July 28, 2025, 08:07:39 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 02:31:01 AMThe old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
I'd take a tight pulsating encounter over the procession that occurred yesterday any day. Two pointers killed yesterday as a contest.
Of the 11 knock out games in the All Ireland series only 3 were decided by a single score.
Last year it was 8 out of 11.
I understand the new rules are here to stay and I think things will improve but I don't think it's improved the game or the entertainment yet.
Agree. There was little in it for the neutral other than nice scores.
Never felt like a contest.
Are there other ways of encouraging distance kicking than "two goals for three kicks" situation.
Like an accrual system that is used at end of game, bonus point to team that scores most outside the arc.
Quote from: JPO on July 27, 2025, 11:56:07 PMIts no shame in losing a final. Its the way Donegal play. For neutrals it is muck. No one wants to watch that
Nonsense. It was an embarrassing spectacle made worse by obvious errors a child could fix.
Why did Seanie O'Shea not kick from the ground, Shane Ryan butchered the free and the 45 rightly
Donegal are not that bad to watch. Some people still haven't let go of 2011.
Quote from: David McKeown on July 28, 2025, 08:07:39 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 02:31:01 AMThe old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
I'd take a tight pulsating encounter over the procession that occurred yesterday any day. Two pointers killed yesterday as a contest.
Of the 11 knock out games in the All Ireland series only 3 were decided by a single score.
Last year it was 8 out of 11.
I understand the new rules are here to stay and I think things will improve but I don't think it's improved the game or the entertainment yet.
Exactly this.
I don't get the current fawning over how good the game is now.
There was no excitement or edge to that final - it was pretty much a walk over. The point of the rules now is to allow teams like Kerry with "superior" footballing talent to always overcome the teams with lesser talent.
It removes the ability of an underdog of having their day through the use of tactics.
I get it though, 2 ultra defensive teams made for what some see as a lesser spectacle and that argument has won out, in no small part due to the commentators on RTE. But give me a tense, tight game any day over a poor all-ireland final.
For what it's worth, Kerry were by far the better side.
Their main players stood up, where Donegal looked rather ordinary. Murphy was exposed as being too slow for a game at that pace, gave away ball and missed an easy free. He did score a few, but compare him (the Donegal star player before the final) to both Cliffords and he was miles off.
McBrearty too - played that impact role all year, but had no impact against Kerry.
Taking off Galen was a mistake imo.
I feel Donegal might slide again now - as without Murphy this year, I doubt they'd have got as far as they did.
You'd imagine he'll retire again now, possibly McBrearty too. Will McGuinness go? He doesn't strike me as the kind of manager who sticks if he doesn't think there is an AI in a team - hard to know what he'll think after that final.
Quote from: jb77 on July 28, 2025, 09:43:26 AMWhy did Seanie O'Shea not kick from the ground, Shane Ryan butchered the free and the 45 rightly
He must have picked up a knock, even the ones he did hit were out of his hands.
Teams with superior attacking talent beating teams with less talent.
This is bad?????
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 28, 2025, 09:55:59 AMQuote from: jb77 on July 28, 2025, 09:43:26 AMWhy did Seanie O'Shea not kick from the ground, Shane Ryan butchered the free and the 45 rightly
He must have picked up a knock, even the ones he did hit were out of his hands.
Why did Donegal not move a couple of their free back outside the 2 point arc? I can remember a couple of instances where they could have but chose not too.
Quote from: NAG1 on July 28, 2025, 10:02:09 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 28, 2025, 09:55:59 AMQuote from: jb77 on July 28, 2025, 09:43:26 AMWhy did Seanie O'Shea not kick from the ground, Shane Ryan butchered the free and the 45 rightly
He must have picked up a knock, even the ones he did hit were out of his hands.
Why did Donegal not move a couple of their free back outside the 2 point arc? I can remember a couple of instances where they could have but chose not too.
Like when? The only time you can move back out is when it has been brought forward for dissent or a breach.
Quote from: Rossfan on July 28, 2025, 09:57:46 AMTeams with superior attacking talent beating teams with less talent.
This is bad?????
If an underdog can't give themselves a chance by trying to be innovative with the rules it is bad.
Being tactical is the leveller - where some teams have easier paths to finals than others, have larger populations, have more investment. Remove the ability of teams to play to what ever strengths they have is just going to rule more teams out of having a chance at an AI.
Quote from: tbrick18 on July 28, 2025, 10:04:53 AMQuote from: Rossfan on July 28, 2025, 09:57:46 AMTeams with superior attacking talent beating teams with less talent.
This is bad?????
If an underdog can't give themselves a chance by trying to be innovative with the rules it is bad.
Being tactical is the leveller - where some teams have easier paths to finals than others, have larger populations, have more investment. Remove the ability of teams to play to what ever strengths they have is just going to rule more teams out of having a chance at an AI.
To be clear on this final though - Kerry were superior in terms of tactics as well as on the field.
Quote from: tbrick18 on July 28, 2025, 09:48:46 AMQuote from: David McKeown on July 28, 2025, 08:07:39 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 02:31:01 AMThe old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
I'd take a tight pulsating encounter over the procession that occurred yesterday any day. Two pointers killed yesterday as a contest.
Of the 11 knock out games in the All Ireland series only 3 were decided by a single score.
Last year it was 8 out of 11.
I understand the new rules are here to stay and I think things will improve but I don't think it's improved the game or the entertainment yet.
Exactly this.
I don't get the current fawning over how good the game is now.
There was no excitement or edge to that final - it was pretty much a walk over. The point of the rules now is to allow teams like Kerry with "superior" footballing talent to always overcome the teams with lesser talent.
It removes the ability of an underdog of having their day through the use of tactics.
I get it though, 2 ultra defensive teams made for what some see as a lesser spectacle and that argument has won out, in no small part due to the commentators on RTE. But give me a tense, tight game any day over a poor all-ireland final.
For what it's worth, Kerry were by far the better side.
Their main players stood up, where Donegal looked rather ordinary. Murphy was exposed as being too slow for a game at that pace, gave away ball and missed an easy free. He did score a few, but compare him (the Donegal star player before the final) to both Cliffords and he was miles off.
McBrearty too - played that impact role all year, but had no impact against Kerry.
Taking off Galen was a mistake imo.
I feel Donegal might slide again now - as without Murphy this year, I doubt they'd have got as far as they did.
You'd imagine he'll retire again now, possibly McBrearty too. Will McGuinness go? He doesn't strike me as the kind of manager who sticks if he doesn't think there is an AI in a team - hard to know what he'll think after that final.
Have to say i agree on the mcguinness question, i dont think its a certainty he stays on at all. Definitely not the kind of manager to slog it out for years. I think Murphy definitely retires. Jim will probably feel deep down this was their best chance and over next few years doesn't look that they have the immediate talent coming through to elevate this Donegal to an all Ireland. They had good u20 team this year ran tyrone to extra time in ulster final but don't think squad will be good enough next year.
Still a good year for donegal and will require a more willingness to adapt game plan to each opponent and depending on the state of the game.
Tactics are great yokes if you have the players to enact them, if the opposition play into your hands, if your players perform on the day, if you have a Plan B.
Yesterday Kerry starting winning ball, doing everything at breakneck speed, stretching Donegal's zone defenders, kicking long range scores,.
Donegal insisted on passing to try and get into small D, no attempts at 2 pointers, 6 points down late in the game but still didn't throw everything at it.
Quote from: Rossfan on July 28, 2025, 10:17:38 AMTactics are great yokes if you have the players to enact them, if the opposition play into your hands, if your players perform on the day, if you have a Plan B.
Yesterday Kerry starting winning ball, doing everything at breakneck speed, stretching Donegal's zone defenders, kicking long range scores,.
Donegal insisted on passing to try and get into small D, no attempts at 2 pointers, 6 points down late in the game but still didn't throw everything at it.
Yeah baffling especially with the amount of players who'd kicked them all year, couple of half assed attempts at balls into Murphy in the square was the height of it
Kerry domination of possession early just allowed them to settle and get a march on donegal that they never relinquished. Allowing a creative player like p clifford to express himself without trouble was poor decision by McGuinness
There's some amount of knee jerk stuff going on here.
IMHO this season has flattered Kerry rather than them being a particularly strong team. Whatever is in their DNA, Kerry teams are always more adaptable. Their ability to win breaking ball, and to man mark, is what set them apart, much more so than even having the Clifford's. Despite all their moaning about injuries, they arrived into the key weeks of the season with all their key players in top gear. Similar to 2009, the gap in quality after their first 15-17 players to their bench is huge, and (like 2010) they will be pulled quickly into the pack if 2-3-4 players have setbacks.
Similarly, Donegal are much closer than suggested above. They'd a tactical horror show yesterday, endured a couple of key early injuries, and fell into the trap of unloading pre-ordained substitutions rather than reading the room. Murphy coming back for them this season was huge, he clearly gave them a lift and a spark, but I would harbour a guess that like Mayo, they might just be a better unit without their big talisman.
Kerry were just aweosme yesterday - right from the throw in. The ten point margin didn't flatter them one bit.
Did anyone else notice that the Donegal forwards weren't in position when the ball was thrown in at the start?
They were jogging into position when the ref threw the ball in - that to me contributed to Gavin White getting onto that first ball. His marker had his back to the play when it was thrown in because he was still just getting into position.
Only a small thing but unusual in such a big game.
Quote from: Rossfan on July 28, 2025, 10:17:38 AMTactics are great yokes if you have the players to enact them, if the opposition play into your hands, if your players perform on the day, if you have a Plan B.
Yesterday Kerry starting winning ball, doing everything at breakneck speed, stretching Donegal's zone defenders, kicking long range scores,.
Donegal insisted on passing to try and get into small D, no attempts at 2 pointers, 6 points down late in the game but still didn't throw everything at it.
Mad wasnt it. Now I'm not advocating for the Dublin style of potshots from everywhere and then saying they were unlucky cos they all went wide. But certainly Donegal needed to get a few of their shooters into positions to hit a couple of 2s. There seems to be a fear to step outside the original forward gameplan.
I didnt expect Donegal to be wiped out in midfield but they were. I liked the change from Donegal on the kickout for Patton to speed up and get it away as soon as possible to an isolated contest down the field. It didnt always work of course but it wasnt total dominance from Kerry in those scenarios either.
Serious performances from Gavin White and Paudi.
I don't remeber the FRC saying you can't lay a glove on P Clifford or that you have to drop your own kickouts onto Joe O'Connor...
I know what they were trying to do in marking the D, but it wasn't working and even with bodies Kerry still slipped plenty of passes through gaps.
There was so many obvious errors. D Clifford was ALWAYS going to end up on the ball that at the end of the first half. And then there was at least 4 terrible wides when Donegal were actually doing OK in the second half. Even O'Baoill in the first half had some space outside the arc and soloes to the edge and then the back and forth play began again. He can kick 2 pointers, but didn't even think of letting rip.
Kerry were fully on it and they have serious players who flew out of the traps.
Quote from: galwayman on July 28, 2025, 10:29:13 AMKerry were just aweosme yesterday - right from the throw in. The ten point margin didn't flatter them one bit.
Did anyone else notice that the Donegal forwards weren't in position when the ball was thrown in at the start?
They were jogging into position when the ref threw the ball in - that to me contributed to Gavin White getting onto that first ball. His marker had his back to the play when it was thrown in because he was still just getting into position.
Only a small thing but unusual in such a big game.
Donegal went through the motions all over the place, handling dodgy
Rewatched first half
The game was over by time Gallen scored, already the donegal crowd were hoping for a goal.
Clever of Kerry to hit guy marking Murphy several so hed have to run out to sideline and back.
Cuteness in spades, Dylan geaney hugging sideline to stretch donegal system wide.
Its fairly basic but then so is gaelic football. Its as if Jimmy studied the Armagh Tyrone games then said "well its not gonna happen us because we have a system".
McHugh and Thompson were demoralising losses to cap the other disasters. Murphy hitting the post, death by a thousand cuts. Many self inflicted.
Kerry showed what they could do against Armagh.
Got mocked for saying thats one of the greatest teams ever in football & probably should have 2-3 more all irelands.
The Donegal players went into their shell yesterday, hence many of their big game players were not at the races.
They were making passes, runs, catches, going for breaking ball, taking shots but doing all of these things without their customary conviction, whilst the Kerry lads had absolute conviction in spades in everything they did.
I think Jim has to take a lot for the blame for that, he needed to send his players out to embrace the occasion and show what they could do, instead he misleadingly named the wrong starting team, came out late, left the parade early etc which IMO are gimmicks that a penny ante junior manager would get up to.
He looked flustered along the line as well when things were not going to plan which couldn't have helped his players.
Having said that he has done some job over the past 2 years, he maybe overthought things this time.
Id love to see the stats on teams that kick the ball versus teams that tend not to kick. And how that equates to all Irelands. Kerry's ability to kick the ball under pressure is unreal.
Quote from: ck on July 28, 2025, 08:44:37 AMA masterclass by Kerry made easier by Jimmy getting a lot wrong on the line. Who in their right mind leaves Paudie Clifford unmarked. Their match ups on Kerry were off too. Joe O'Conner dominated the kickouts and Donegal finally put Langan on him late in the game but the damage was done. As for Donegals defence, it was a shambles, split open at will. They took away Pattons kickouts and made him look ordinary. Well done Kerry, a very impressive performance.
On the contrary, I thought Patton was excellent on kickouts yesterday. Previously when Donegal have been getting destroyed on the kickout, he's had a meltdown. He didn't yesterday. It's not on him when he's forced to go long and Kerry mop up the breaks. When he was forced into the more daisy cutter ones, which are fraught with risk, he executed them nigh on perfectly.
Silly stuff such as leaving parade early, delaying start of the match didn't help Donegal and was more of a distraction. Kerry players on the other hand looked relaxed but focused.
Playing Murphy for nearly every game instead of using him as an impact sub was stupid. Could you imagine the physiological boost to the Donegal fans and team if they sprung Murphy from the bench even if they were a few points down.
Having a captain long long past his best and who spent most of his time on the sub bench throughout the year was another stupid move.
Donegal just weren't at the races yesterday, steamrollered by Kerry between the 5th and 20th minute. The 2 pointer by Clifford before half time finished a demoralised Donegal off. They were really never in that game, Kerry were just too good, quicker, stronger and more skilful. McGuinness's tactical rigidity didn't help. I can't understand teams who are 7 points down and continue to let the opposition hand pass it about the 45 for a couple of minutes. You'd think they'd be better having a go at getting the ball?
Quote from: thewobbler on July 28, 2025, 10:28:43 AMThere's some amount of knee jerk stuff going on here.
IMHO this season has flattered Kerry rather than them being a particularly strong team. Whatever is in their DNA, Kerry teams are always more adaptable. Their ability to win breaking ball, and to man mark, is what set them apart, much more so than even having the Clifford's. Despite all their moaning about injuries, they arrived into the key weeks of the season with all their key players in top gear. Similar to 2009, the gap in quality after their first 15-17 players to their bench is huge, and (like 2010) they will be pulled quickly into the pack if 2-3-4 players have setbacks.
Similarly, Donegal are much closer than suggested above. They'd a tactical horror show yesterday, endured a couple of key early injuries, and fell into the trap of unloading pre-ordained substitutions rather than reading the room. Murphy coming back for them this season was huge, he clearly gave them a lift and a spark, but I would harbour a guess that like Mayo, they might just be a better unit without their big talisman.
Donegal possibly haven't been great since the Ulster Final. We don't know for sure because they had two handy games in the SF and QF. They definitely weren't at it in the group stages.
I thought they played better football last year with no Murphy. Everything had to go through him this year for some reason and Gallen was quieter, possibly as a result. Why play him for the entire game, every game, when you have such a long season.
Unbelievable how McGuinness got Donegal back to the top table from where they had got to in 2023. He is like cult leader in the way in which he seems to inspire players to devote to the cause. But that can be a double-edged sword and Kerry made both team and management look very ordinary yesterday. If he walks then Donegal could have bother. If he stays and the team falls back next year, then the magic will be gone, if it isn't already. Their failure to deal with Paudie Clifford is purely on the management.
Kerry timed their run to perfection and they took out the three top Ulster teams on their way, including two recent all-Ireland champions. This must be O'Connor's sweetest win, given where they had come from, who they beat and the criticism they took at home.
From having no midfield a month ago, this all-Ireland was based on controlling the space between the two 50s in the last three games.
Clifford is a joy to watch. I think in the first ten minutes he touched the ball four times and scored two 2-pointers and won a 2-point free. His total time on the ball couldn't have been more than 5 seconds during this period - it was an immediate shot each time. Literally unmarkable.
He spent so much of the game drifting into the corner followed by McCole and leaving the space behind him. The impact he has when he hasn't the ball is huge as he is such a distraction.
Well done to Kerry on yet another well deserved All Ireland win, all of key players had an influence and the argument they ended up with their best and most balanced team due to injuries stacked up stronger after yesterday.
No need to sugar coat that contest though it was not a great advert for the new rules. Was no way you could see Kerry losing once 9 points ahead midway though the 1st half. The two pointers Kerry 5 to Donegals none proved a big difference and the goal added gloss to the final scoreline.
Donegal will have regrets about their stand off approach, they most certainly didn't win the All-Ireland in 2012 defending in that manner and going back further with Tyrone in 2003 didn't give Kerry a single second to settle. The time and room on the ball the likes of the Cliffords,OShea got was dream stuff for a final and the last score of the 1st half summed up the contest, with a long possession football as Donegal stood off admiring it and David Clifford knocked over a two pointer at his ease unchallenged.
Be interesting to see what tweaks the FRC come up with as the knock out stages the excitement level they were hoping for didn't really happen this summer.
Quote from: APM on July 28, 2025, 11:56:35 AMQuote from: thewobbler on July 28, 2025, 10:28:43 AMThere's some amount of knee jerk stuff going on here.
IMHO this season has flattered Kerry rather than them being a particularly strong team. Whatever is in their DNA, Kerry teams are always more adaptable. Their ability to win breaking ball, and to man mark, is what set them apart, much more so than even having the Clifford's. Despite all their moaning about injuries, they arrived into the key weeks of the season with all their key players in top gear. Similar to 2009, the gap in quality after their first 15-17 players to their bench is huge, and (like 2010) they will be pulled quickly into the pack if 2-3-4 players have setbacks.
Similarly, Donegal are much closer than suggested above. They'd a tactical horror show yesterday, endured a couple of key early injuries, and fell into the trap of unloading pre-ordained substitutions rather than reading the room. Murphy coming back for them this season was huge, he clearly gave them a lift and a spark, but I would harbour a guess that like Mayo, they might just be a better unit without their big talisman.
Donegal possibly haven't been great since the Ulster Final. We don't know for sure because they had two handy games in the SF and QF. They definitely weren't at it in the group stages.
I thought they played better football last year with no Murphy. Everything had to go through him this year for some reason and Gallen was quieter, possibly as a result. Why play him for the entire game, every game, when you have such a long season.
Unbelievable how McGuinness got Donegal back to the top table from where they had got to in 2023. He is like cult leader in the way in which he seems to inspire players to devote to the cause. But that can be a double-edged sword and Kerry made both team and management look very ordinary yesterday. If he walks then Donegal could have bother. If he stays and the team falls back next year, then the magic will be gone, if it isn't already. Their failure to deal with Paudie Clifford is purely on the management.
Kerry timed their run to perfection and they took out the three top Ulster teams on their way, including two recent all-Ireland champions. This must be O'Connor's sweetest win, given where they had come from, who they beat and the criticism they took at home.
From having no midfield a month ago, this all-Ireland was based on controlling the space between the two 50s in the last three games.
Clifford is a joy to watch. I think in the first ten minutes he touched the ball four times and scored two 2-pointers and won a 2-point free. His total time on the ball couldn't have been more than 5 seconds during this period - it was an immediate shot each time. Literally unmarkable.
He spent so much of the game drifting into the corner followed by McCole and leaving the space behind him. The impact he has when he hasn't the ball is huge as he is such a distraction.
Sure what did he do the 4th time? Dud. :D
Thats madness when you think about it, 0-6 coming off him having the ball 3 times.
I liked the Kerry referencing of Cork's non-performnce in the second half of the hurling final. It was talked about at half-time.
Whyte got on the break straight after half-time and drove forward with purpose - like he did in the first few minutes. He hit Mc Hugh a good lift on the way through. So much so, that Mc Hugh had to go off a few minutes later. Kerry weren't going to have a 'Cork' second half.
They always carried the ball with intent, with purpose, while Donegal, on the other hand, were waiting for things to happen.
The McKaigue segment on BBC was cringe but not as bad as Niblock's poetry at the start. Niblock trying to be Seamus Heaney.
People like McKaigue and Neil McManus don't have the voice for TV due to their co.Antrim accents.
Also I never know who those celebrity guests are in the box. Maybe I am out of touch with society.
Can see Jack staying now, as Ive learned the "Drive for 40" is now a possibility.
If I was him I would probably stay but hes given an awful lot & he revealed the wife had taken a "momento" picture of him outside the changing room.
Kerry the King's and a victory for football
Quote from: tbrick18 on July 28, 2025, 09:48:46 AMQuote from: David McKeown on July 28, 2025, 08:07:39 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 02:31:01 AMThe old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
I'd take a tight pulsating encounter over the procession that occurred yesterday any day. Two pointers killed yesterday as a contest.
Of the 11 knock out games in the All Ireland series only 3 were decided by a single score.
Last year it was 8 out of 11.
I understand the new rules are here to stay and I think things will improve but I don't think it's improved the game or the entertainment yet.
Exactly this.
I don't get the current fawning over how good the game is now.
There was no excitement or edge to that final - it was pretty much a walk over. The point of the rules now is to allow teams like Kerry with "superior" footballing talent to always overcome the teams with lesser talent.
It removes the ability of an underdog of having their day through the use of tactics.
I get it though, 2 ultra defensive teams made for what some see as a lesser spectacle and that argument has won out, in no small part due to the commentators on RTE. But give me a tense, tight game any day over a poor all-ireland final.
For what it's worth, Kerry were by far the better side.
Their main players stood up, where Donegal looked rather ordinary. Murphy was exposed as being too slow for a game at that pace, gave away ball and missed an easy free. He did score a few, but compare him (the Donegal star player before the final) to both Cliffords and he was miles off.
McBrearty too - played that impact role all year, but had no impact against Kerry.
Taking off Galen was a mistake imo.
I feel Donegal might slide again now - as without Murphy this year, I doubt they'd have got as far as they did.
You'd imagine he'll retire again now, possibly McBrearty too. Will McGuinness go? He doesn't strike me as the kind of manager who sticks if he doesn't think there is an AI in a team - hard to know what he'll think after that final.
The FRC's intent is to improve the game. The irony, at the inter-county level, is that the rule changes have made the championship's biggest problem worse. Kerry highlighted this flaw over the past three games.
For years the complaint has been lack of competitiveness. The GAA response was to kick 16 counties out of the championship every year, have the big counties play extra games against each other, and pretend the problem doesn't exist.
The rules changes expand this problem into the big counties because teams can no longer defence superior talent. Kerry waltzed over Armagh, Tyrone & Donegal. That's the best the rest of Ireland has to offer. It's the best that will be offered for the rest of this decade.
I turned the tv off after 15 minutes yesterday. It was 10-2 and it sure looked like there was no defence even on the field for Kerry's 10 points. They came so easily that it seemed like a joke.
We've all been fooled by the novelty of the new rules and convinced something better is now in place. However I saw the Canadian Football League go all offence in the 1990s and it ruined Canadian football because scoring became too easy. Casual fans love it as it requires minimal effort to be entertained. But what about the real lifetime fans?
On top of the novelty, as pointed out, you've got RTE and all authority manufacturing consent. Brainwashing all fans that the new rules are a done deal, so accept them.
If I was an optimist, I'd be relieved that Kerry's run came just in time for the FRC to roll back the rule changes that have destroyed the offence-defence balance. Unfortunately the more I see the GAA at work, the more cynical I become.
2024 scores resemble Gaelic football scores going back to the "glory years"(whenever those glory years were). 2025 scoring is double. So which is really closer to the traditional game and which is something completely different?
The GAA's Frankenstein monster is now on the loose!
Quote from: Norm-Peterson on July 28, 2025, 12:44:15 PMThe McKaigue segment on BBC was cringe but not as bad as Niblock's poetry at the start. Niblock trying to be Seamus Heaney.
People like McKaigue and Neil McManus don't have the voice for TV due to their co.Antrim accents.
Also I never know who those celebrity guests are in the box. Maybe I am out of touch with society.
Exactly why I swerved BBC
RTE commentary was passable, which is all it needed to be, no concocted pre-canned phrases to squeeze in Clive Tyldsley style
Quote from: tiempo on July 28, 2025, 01:11:39 PMQuote from: Norm-Peterson on July 28, 2025, 12:44:15 PMThe McKaigue segment on BBC was cringe but not as bad as Niblock's poetry at the start. Niblock trying to be Seamus Heaney.
People like McKaigue and Neil McManus don't have the voice for TV due to their co.Antrim accents.
Also I never know who those celebrity guests are in the box. Maybe I am out of touch with society.
Exactly why I swerved BBC
RTE commentary was passable, which is all it needed to be, no concocted pre-canned phrases to squeeze in Clive Tyldsley style
Enda McEvoy in the Irish Examiner
Why do BBC Northern Ireland have an Irish female comedian you've never heard of, an English actor you've never heard of, Douglas Henshall (a Scottish actor you may or may not have heard of) and Martin Compston, the small guy from Line of Duty, empanelled to give their thoughts on the match?
The celebrity stuff is cringe central but seems tailored to the hypothetical non Irish "GAA curious" audience.
Theres no harm doing it , but the constant gushing and explaining how GAELIC FOOOOOTBALL is played is tiresome.
Quote from: EoinW on July 28, 2025, 01:07:48 PMQuote from: tbrick18 on July 28, 2025, 09:48:46 AMQuote from: David McKeown on July 28, 2025, 08:07:39 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 02:31:01 AMThe old rules covered team limitations when up against a superior team that couldn't man mark 1 on 1. Still think 3 up a silly rule, 2 enough.Armagh and Galway employed double sweepers last year and that game although tight, was a horror show.
I'd take a tight pulsating encounter over the procession that occurred yesterday any day. Two pointers killed yesterday as a contest.
Of the 11 knock out games in the All Ireland series only 3 were decided by a single score.
Last year it was 8 out of 11.
I understand the new rules are here to stay and I think things will improve but I don't think it's improved the game or the entertainment yet.
Exactly this.
I don't get the current fawning over how good the game is now.
There was no excitement or edge to that final - it was pretty much a walk over. The point of the rules now is to allow teams like Kerry with "superior" footballing talent to always overcome the teams with lesser talent.
It removes the ability of an underdog of having their day through the use of tactics.
I get it though, 2 ultra defensive teams made for what some see as a lesser spectacle and that argument has won out, in no small part due to the commentators on RTE. But give me a tense, tight game any day over a poor all-ireland final.
For what it's worth, Kerry were by far the better side.
Their main players stood up, where Donegal looked rather ordinary. Murphy was exposed as being too slow for a game at that pace, gave away ball and missed an easy free. He did score a few, but compare him (the Donegal star player before the final) to both Cliffords and he was miles off.
McBrearty too - played that impact role all year, but had no impact against Kerry.
Taking off Galen was a mistake imo.
I feel Donegal might slide again now - as without Murphy this year, I doubt they'd have got as far as they did.
You'd imagine he'll retire again now, possibly McBrearty too. Will McGuinness go? He doesn't strike me as the kind of manager who sticks if he doesn't think there is an AI in a team - hard to know what he'll think after that final.
The FRC's intent is to improve the game. The irony, at the inter-county level, is that the rule changes have made the championship's biggest problem worse. Kerry highlighted this flaw over the past three games.
For years the complaint has been lack of competitiveness. The GAA response was to kick 16 counties out of the championship every year, have the big counties play extra games against each other, and pretend the problem doesn't exist.
The rules changes expand this problem into the big counties because teams can no longer defence superior talent. Kerry waltzed over Armagh, Tyrone & Donegal. That's the best the rest of Ireland has to offer. It's the best that will be offered for the rest of this decade.
I turned the tv off after 15 minutes yesterday. It was 10-2 and it sure looked like there was no defence even on the field for Kerry's 10 points. They came so easily that it seemed like a joke.
We've all been fooled by the novelty of the new rules and convinced something better is now in place. However I saw the Canadian Football League go all offence in the 1990s and it ruined Canadian football because scoring became too easy. Casual fans love it as it requires minimal effort to be entertained. But what about the real lifetime fans?
On top of the novelty, as pointed out, you've got RTE and all authority manufacturing consent. Brainwashing all fans that the new rules are a done deal, so accept them.
If I was an optimist, I'd be relieved that Kerry's run came just in time for the FRC to roll back the rule changes that have destroyed the offence-defence balance. Unfortunately the more I see the GAA at work, the more cynical I become.
2024 scores resemble Gaelic football scores going back to the "glory years"(whenever those glory years were). 2025 scoring is double. So which is really closer to the traditional game and which is something completely different?
The GAA's Frankenstein monster is now on the loose!
Good post. And spot on
I read something about Clifford getting 0-6 from 3 kicks , and had the ball in his hands for less than 2 seconds or something. That sounds little difference to a kicker in American football coming on to take a kick, then going off again
Is that what people want to see from supposedly the great forward in history? Move the chess pieces around relentlessly for 2- 3 minutes , Clifford runs around until he gets himself a yard of space , and boom .. a 2 pointer? Crowd goes wild, oh what a genius Jim gavin is. The game is brilliant now !!
Really???
Jesus, some people are either easily pleased , or brainwashed by the FRC/RTE
The FRC's intent is to improve the game. The irony, at the inter-county level, is that the rule changes have made the championship's biggest problem worse. Kerry highlighted this flaw over the past three games.
For years the complaint has been lack of competitiveness. The GAA response was to kick 16 counties out of the championship every year, have the big counties play extra games against each other, and pretend the problem doesn't exist.
The rules changes expand this problem into the big counties because teams can no longer defence superior talent. Kerry waltzed over Armagh, Tyrone & Donegal. That's the best the rest of Ireland has to offer. It's the best that will be offered for the rest of this decade.
I turned the tv off after 15 minutes yesterday. It was 10-2 and it sure looked like there was no defence even on the field for Kerry's 10 points. They came so easily that it seemed like a joke. Harlem Globetrotters?
We've all been fooled by the novelty of the new rules and convinced something better is now in place. However I saw the Canadian Football League go all offence in the 1990s and it ruined Canadian football because scoring became too easy. Casual fans love it as it requires minimal effort to be entertained. But what about the real lifetime fans?
On top of the novelty, as pointed out, you've got RTE and all authority manufacturing consent. Brainwashing all fans that the new rules have saved the game and are a done deal, so accept them.
If I was an optimist, I'd be relieved that Kerry's run came just in time for the FRC to roll back the rule changes that have destroyed the offence-defence balance. Unfortunately the more I see the GAA at work, the more cynical I become.
2024 scores resemble Gaelic football scores going back to the "glory years"(whenever those glory years were). 2025 scoring is double. So which is really closer to the traditional game and which is something completely different?
The GAA's Frankenstein monster is now on the loose!
What is irksome for me is that historically Ulster has won All Irelands rarely. To reach the middle of this decade and see great potential for another brief period of Ulster success - with Armagh, Donegal & Tyrone leading the way - was reason for optimism.
Then the RFC came along to neutralize the common strength of Ulster teams, their defensive system. Notice that since the original changes there's only been one tweek. That was in February when the Ulster counties, with their attacking goalkeepers took advantage of a loophole in the new rules. It took the RFC one week to shut that down! Would we have seen any reaction from the FRC if Kerry or Dublin had offensive minded goalkeepers?
I don't wish to be cynical but it sure seems like the game was completely changed this year before Ulster could have another 4-5 year All Ireland dominance. The slaves aren't getting off the plantation this time!
The county game just got too big for its boots, the GAA then becomes dependant on it for cash flow bonanza and then you have the corporate shite talk about the "product" and "advertising our brand".
Its hard to be negative nancy but the county professionalism wasn't nipped in the bud when it should have been.
Dear God!!!
Im doubtful there's a ploy to stop Ulster teams considering they bring fair support. In general the GAA probably worried about attendance and negativity amongst supporters.
Learn to kick points from 40metres, its not rocket science
Some serious sh!te talked on this board over the last 24 hrs. As much as I think there ever was, and that's a high bar! 😂
We give out bout these charlatan managers coming in with their buzz words and next level analysis. Not a patch on the spoofers in here.
Quote from: EoinW on July 28, 2025, 01:40:10 PMI don't wish to be cynical but it sure seems like the game was completely changed this year before Ulster could have another 4-5 year All Ireland dominance. The slaves aren't getting off the plantation this time!
The rules are the same for everyone. It's only the first year, so i think we need to give them a chance to bed in. Teams will eventually learn how to maximise their performance within the new rules. Football was much more enjoyable this year, and as teams adapt the competiveness will tighten up as well.
3 sane sensible posts....
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 28, 2025, 01:44:45 PMThe county game just got too big for its boots, the GAA then becomes dependant on it for cash flow bonanza and then you have the corporate shite talk about the "product" and "advertising our brand".
Its hard to be negative nancy but the county professionalism wasn't nipped in the bud when it should have been.
The GAA had serious competition from soccer and rugby from 88 through to present day
The GAA seems to have won that battle on the whole
Players who have gone through the Sigerson system have become accustomed to inducement, the horse has largely bolted, it needs to be managed now by limiting the amount of training county teams can do and pushing back on quango (GPA) influence on format and scheduling, the GPA exert influence far beyond their democratic mandate and need reigned in
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hrxFrNSvpUKfwz6H4bd_zm3iulVCsQpAvXN8q3bExLFUN1NaV1FDNTBaQk1YUExOM0xUVDczMTRPUS4u&route=shorturl
I remember Peter Keane was slow to call up Paudie Clifford to the kerry panel. 2020 was his first year and that was a knockout championship. He is in line to win his 4th All Star.
You shut him down and it goes a long way to beating Kerry. When Dublin beat them a massive reason (IMO) was that Jack McCaffrey came on and Clifford couldn't keep with him so fouled him repeatedly and got a yellow. Derry ran them close because McCloskey was on him and Tyrone had Meyler on him that worked one day. He makes them tick.
Spare a thought for Galway , Kerry a 21 point[?] Better team
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 28, 2025, 01:56:59 PMIm doubtful there's a ploy to stop Ulster teams considering they bring fair support. In general the GAA probably worried about attendance and negativity amongst supporters.
Learn to kick points from 40metres, its not rocket science
Wouldn't be convinced on the anti-ulster reasoning, but to counter your "learn to kick points" quip, teams could have learned to play through a packed defence. That's not rocket science either.
The best argument for two pointers and keeping them is forcing coaches to start to emphasise kicking skill. Look at the goal keeper kick outs.
In the environment county teams are in its inevitable shooting will improve with caveat the rules stay.
That's unless you believe Kerry are Ubermenschen. Tyrone dropped Paul Donaghy who does this routinely at club, whilst not the same its a skill now required.
Weve had crap all irelands before it wont be the last.
The problem with football wasn't a lack of competitiveness it was just boring. Lesser teams parking the bus and hand passing the ball around a massed defence didn't stop the better teams winning - it just looked worse. Tight games where nothing happened for long periods of time were what turned people off. If Donegal had scored a couple of two pointers at strategic moments yesterday it could have been a completely different game. But they didn't. That's on them. The narrative that these two pointers are a piece of cake just doesn't stand up.
Dublin's dominance was due to the quality of players they had. When the quality dropped so did Dublin. Kerry currently have the best footballers and it shows.
Until 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
Mind boggles
Kerry have a genius and lots of very good footballers who were absolutely ON IT yeserday. Gavin White was awesome and they all played like men possessed.
Donegal pottered up the field, and didn't really know what they were doing next at times. McBrearty came in and he could have got a big lift score but he missed it. Those moments drained Donegal as much as anything Kerry did.
I still don't know what their plan was. As I said O'Baoill who can kick 2s wandered up to the arc and then began the over and back. Just have a go!
Quote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 04:28:21 PMUntil 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
You are dead right, every player did - including the Kerry lads! Or did they get a sneak peek?! Surely FRC's Michael Murphy could have done the same.
I mean for God's sake, what were the FRC thinking?! County players had to learn to kick a point from 40 yards. Midfielders had to learn how to catch it over their heads. And don't get me started on the poor defenders who only had 7 months to learn how to defend one on one...
Quote from: Rossfan on July 28, 2025, 02:07:49 PM3 sane sensible posts....
No. 3 posts that share the same viewpoint as you.
Quote from: Captain Scarlet on July 28, 2025, 04:36:15 PMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 04:28:21 PMUntil 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
You are dead right, every player did - including the Kerry lads! Or did they get a sneak peek?! Surely FRC's Michael Murphy could have done the same.
I mean for God's sake, what were the FRC thinking?! County players had to learn to kick a point from 40 yards. Midfielders had to learn how to catch it over their heads. And don't get me started on the poor defenders who only had 7 months to learn how to defend one on one...
A blind man could see that Kerry/Clifford had been curtailed by a "System" allowed by the previous ruleset.
It's possible that they would have eventually found a way to overcome it. It's also possible that they wouldn't.
By the end of 2024 they hadn't.
Kerry had very little adapting to do for the new rules - they were designed with Kerry type football in Croke Park in mind after all.
Designed with input from Michael Murphy!And Peter Canavan and Malachy O'rourke involved too...
From Gaelic Statsman
Kerry Originated Scores
Own Kickouts: 0-12 (2tp)
Donegal Kickout: 0-6 (1tp)
Turnovers: 1-6 (2tp)
Throw In: 0-2
Donegal Originated Scores
Own Kickout: 0-11
Kerry Kickout: 0-6
Turnover: 0-2
Quote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 04:28:21 PMUntil 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
Fraudulent performances ffs, I've heard it all now :o
Quote from: Captain Scarlet on July 28, 2025, 05:12:21 PMDesigned with input from Michael Murphy!And Peter Canavan and Malachy O'rourke involved too...
Exactly. It wasn't kerry people designed it. They're just currently better than anyone else and that's it.
Donegal definitely disappointed yesterday too but the much better team won. They might have kept the score down with old rules.
I honestly think McGuinness backed his team and his system and didn't account for kerry being as good as they were.
McGuinness didn't back his team with the new rules when it came to business end of season.
The mistakes they were making would suggest it was lack of experience and not being right on the day.....coupled with a superb kerry performance.
My main gripe is the two pointer allowing a massive gap to quickly develop, it sucked energy and Donegals first desperate goal attempt was at 20 min mark.
When defenders stand 5 or 10 metres inside the arc and make no attempt to pressure the lads with the ball outside it.......
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 28, 2025, 05:23:16 PMExactly. It wasn't Kerry people designed it. They're just currently better than anyone else and that's it.
Donegal definitely disappointed yesterday too but the much better team won. They might have kept the score down with old rules.
I honestly think McGuinness backed his team and his system and didn't account for kerry being as good as they were.
Armagh had some excuse, as Kerry did not become good until 5 minutes into the second half and they had some problems changing the plan quickly. But Donegal have known this since that day and have had more time to prepare a plan of some sort.
I wonder was Eamonn Fitzmaurice having the odd chat with Jack O'Connor during the year?
Kerry had one advantage, that their "system" last year was widely seen a deficient, so a strong motivation to get a new one. Jimmy still believed in continuity with last year.
Quote from: Tubberman on July 28, 2025, 05:21:44 PMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 04:28:21 PMUntil 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
Fraudulent performances ffs, I've heard it all now :o
Clifford's scoring:
2021: 2–17
2022: 2–27
2023: 5–41
2024: 3–54
2025: 11–84
Maybe the massive uplift in 2025 had nothing to do with the rules.
Some nonsense talked here. Lads embarrassing themselves. Same rules for everyone. Kerry deserved champions. Simple.
You can debate the merits of tight games versus free scoring shootouts. But for all the talk Kerry couldn't have won without primary possession send they won the midfield battle three games in-a-row. Kickouts, Midfield and breaking ball was restored as a battleground and it is a new front upon which games can be won and lost, enhancing the competitive spectacle. To me that is the big win from the new rules and Kerry unexpectedly capitalised on it
Quote from: APM on July 28, 2025, 06:55:53 PMSome nonsense talked here. Lads embarrassing themselves. Same rules for everyone. Kerry deserved champions. Simple.
You can debate the merits of tight games versus free scoring shootouts. But for all the talk Kerry couldn't have won without primary possession send they won the midfield battle three games in-a-row. Kickouts, Midfield and breaking ball was restored as a battleground and it is a new front upon which games can be won and lost, enhancing the competitive spectacle. To me that is the big win from the new rules and Kerry unexpectedly capitalised on it
Yeah can't disagree with any of that.
I'd far rather last years final than this years (even if it hadn't been Armagh) give me a game that goes down to the wire any day over a procession, but Donegal only themselves to blame not the new rules.
Quote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 06:29:06 PMQuote from: Tubberman on July 28, 2025, 05:21:44 PMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 04:28:21 PMUntil 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
Fraudulent performances ffs, I've heard it all now :o
Clifford's scoring:
2021: 2–17
2022: 2–27
2023: 5–41
2024: 3–54
2025: 11–84
Maybe the massive uplift in 2025 had nothing to do with the rules.
Any context here on games played etc? League and Championship? Source?
Gaelic Statsman on twitter has Clifford scoring 3-30 in league and 8-48 in the Championship. Wiki has it at 11-92.
That manic hunger and intensity Kerry brought this year is very very hard to beat. Saw it in Tralee in our league game and again from the famous 15 minutes against us in Croker and in both games since.
It's also extremely hard to maintain that extra hunger after winning it so it remains to be seen whether or not they'll back it up next year, but thats not a discussion for today. Hats off to them, best team in the country by a mile this year.
They been in 3 outta 4 finals, had alot of injuries, blooded new players and come out the other side. They be well placed nxt year and are by far, at the minute, the strongest team in the country. Only weak Spot yesterday was P Murphy who looks past it and got took for multi points of Gallen and O'Donnell. G O'Sullivan will revert to that spot, he's not a forward, or T O'Sullivan come in.
What if Kerry end up winning 5 or 6 in a. Row?
Will they look at the rules again?
These new rules could end up being the Dublin financial doping of its day.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 28, 2025, 08:21:47 PMWhat if Kerry end up winning 5 or 6 in a. Row?
Will they look at the rules again?
These new rules could end up being the Dublin financial doping of its day.
Then they'll have done it because they had the best players and set up. Up to the pack to figure out a way to beat them.
The new rules are financial doping by the GAA 🫠
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 28, 2025, 08:21:47 PMWhat if Kerry end up winning 5 or 6 in a. Row?
Will they look at the rules again?
These new rules could end up being the Dublin financial doping of its day.
How is that true? No team has the financial pulling power of Dublin. Are you saying Kerry is the only team with the capacity to capitalise on the new rules?
Kerry were driven, focussed and brilliant yesterday but Jimmy overcooked Donegal they played like nervous wrecks. Media hype and crushed together championship did not help. Less games next year and eveyone more used to rules, should be better?
Quote from: APM on July 28, 2025, 08:53:57 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 28, 2025, 08:21:47 PMWhat if Kerry end up winning 5 or 6 in a. Row?
Will they look at the rules again?
These new rules could end up being the Dublin financial doping of its day.
How is that true? No team has the financial pulling power of Dublin. Are you saying Kerry is the only team with the capacity to capitalise on the new rules?
New heights of absolute bollix being spewed on here. As much as I hate the sight of them, and would have fathered any other county to win if, there's rarely been a deserved AI. They were better than everyone else by a fair margin and will be the team to beat for the next couple of years.
QuoteQuoteWhat if Kerry end up winning 5 or 6 in a. Row?
Will they look at the rules again?
These new rules could end up being the Dublin financial doping of its day.
How is that true? No team has the financial pulling power of Dublin. Are you saying Kerry is the only team with the capacity to capitalise on the new rules?
What I'm getting at is , Kerry have been overturned by Cork, Dublin Tyrone Armagh etc in recent years. You can't deny These new rules are suiting Kerry because they have great forwards, the Clifford's in particular.
armagh stifled the Clifford's last year. Now it's a different game. You can't help but feel the new rules are set up well for Kerry over the next few years , especially with a number of their players peaking. So akin to Dublin's financing, it did affect the championship, particularly Leinster. Nobody was interested in it. Even the AI race was a foregone conclusion for the best part of a decade.
If kerry dominate , you could have another disinterested public
Here's my position in a nutshell and should be read in conjunction with my previous posts:
New rules - I'm a big fan, keep them all. I'm excited by how teams adapt and develop around and towards them.
Kerry - best team in the championship at the business end when it mattered. Not by a considerable distance but certainly a distance.
Would Kerry have won it based on the previous rules? I very much doubt it.
Would Clifford have run wild and free in 2025 based on previous rules. I very much doubt it.
It took the rule changes to manufacture this season for Kerry. They didn't adapt to the rules... The rules suit "Kerry football"... The rest will now have to adapt.
And that is totally fine.
If anyone finds this controversial or thinks of it as shite talk then your a balloon and don't know what you're talking about.
Quote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 09:42:50 PMHere's my position in a nutshell and should be read in conjunction with my previous posts:
New rules - I'm a big fan, keep them all. I'm excited by how teams adapt and develop around and towards them.
Kerry - best team in the championship at the business end when it mattered. Not by a considerable distance but certainly a distance.
Would Kerry have won it based on the previous rules? I very much doubt it.
Would Clifford have run wild and free in 2025 based on previous rules. I very much doubt it.
It took the rule changes to manufacture this season for Kerry. They didn't adapt to the rules... The rules suit "Kerry football"... The rest will now have to adapt.
And that is totally fine.
If anyone finds this controversial or thinks of it as shite talk then your a balloon and don't know what you're talking about.
Good analysis apart from the last sentence that your opinion is the only valid one.
Agreed new rules are excellent and I believe have saved the game. And agree suit Kerry best as Clifford and other top forwards now has freedom to play without being surrounded by a whole defence. Unfortunately Kerry have the best footballers and this suits them well...
Are Armagh the 2nd best team in the country on all evidence?
Had that Kerry team in trouble in second half and looked good all year.
Albeit for 15 minutes of madness in second half.
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 28, 2025, 09:59:47 PMAre Armagh the 2nd best team in the country on all evidence?
Had that Kerry team in trouble in second half and looked good all year.
Albeit for 15 minutes of madness in second half.
They haven't beat Donegal since McGuinness came back
Quote from: Mario on July 28, 2025, 10:15:12 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 28, 2025, 09:59:47 PMAre Armagh the 2nd best team in the country on all evidence?
Had that Kerry team in trouble in second half and looked good all year.
Albeit for 15 minutes of madness in second half.
They haven't beat Donegal since McGuinness came back
Ah not a lot between ourselves, Donegal and Tyrone, we got closest to Kerry out of the 3 of us though and would wonder if we'd have got on any better against Kerry if we'd got the chance to see them tank Donegal and Tyrone first. Next years a fresh slate for everyone, who knows what Jim will do in Donegal, Tyrone will get better under O'Rourke and with the talent coming through, we need some in to replace Donaghy's presence, and some new faces will be needed and to get the 2 O'Neills fit and firing along with McKay back, hopefully won't be far away.
Kerry going for 40 next year.
Id imagine they'll be harder to stop in 2025.
Couple that with guys returning from injury and maybe even Oz lads spot a chance to be part of history.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 28, 2025, 10:28:18 PMQuote from: Mario on July 28, 2025, 10:15:12 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 28, 2025, 09:59:47 PMAre Armagh the 2nd best team in the country on all evidence?
Had that Kerry team in trouble in second half and looked good all year.
Albeit for 15 minutes of madness in second half.
They haven't beat Donegal since McGuinness came back
Ah not a lot between ourselves, Donegal and Tyrone, we got closest to Kerry out of the 3 of us though and would wonder if we'd have got on any better against Kerry if we'd got the chance to see them tank Donegal and Tyrone first. Next years a fresh slate for everyone, who knows what Jim will do in Donegal, Tyrone will get better under O'Rourke and with the talent coming through, we need some in to replace Donaghy's presence, and some new faces will be needed and to get the 2 O'Neills fit and firing along with McKay back, hopefully won't be far away.
Closest to Kerry in what sense?
Tyrone beaten by 6 (including 4 gifts of Cavan Joe)
Armagh beaten by 8
And Gough handed Armagh victory against Tyrone in Clones.
Kerry 1-20 Tyrone 0-17 [ 6 point win]
Kerry 0-32 Armagh 1-21 [8 point win]
Kerry 1-26 Donegal 0-19 [10 point win]
Tyrone got closet.
You want a Blue Peter badge for getting closest to Kerry.G Meath be running round saying we beat the All-Ireland champs under that criteria, even though Donegal creamed them for 20.
Quote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 05:04:30 PMQuote from: Captain Scarlet on July 28, 2025, 04:36:15 PMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 04:28:21 PMUntil 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
You are dead right, every player did - including the Kerry lads! Or did they get a sneak peek?! Surely FRC's Michael Murphy could have done the same.
I mean for God's sake, what were the FRC thinking?! County players had to learn to kick a point from 40 yards. Midfielders had to learn how to catch it over their heads. And don't get me started on the poor defenders who only had 7 months to learn how to defend one on one...
A blind man could see that Kerry/Clifford had been curtailed by a "System" allowed by the previous ruleset.
It's possible that they would have eventually found a way to overcome it. It's also possible that they wouldn't.
By the end of 2024 they hadn't.
Kerry had very little adapting to do for the new rules - they were designed with Kerry type football in Croke Park in mind after all.
Lol what does this even mean? Good football?
Apologies for the double post this morning(my time). PC hiccup. I'll soon be going silent for the next six months. Just hang in there and don't do anything drastic.
Interesting advice for the counties with mere mortals for players: learn to kick from 40m.
I do not get what is so great about making long kicks for a point. Giving them double points doesn't make them twice as great. If Clifford or O'Se kicked a 2 pointer that sailed out of Croke Park...that would be exciting. The Irish Babe Ruths!
The counter suggestion was that Kerry should learn to break down a stacked defence. In basketball and box lacrosse the idea would be to attack before that defence could be set up...known as the fast break. I thought the "tap and go" rule was a nice idea to inject more pace in the game. It would have been interesting if a great team like Kerry could have turned that one rule change into offensive dominance. Alas we'll never know.
I also would have been curious to have seen them try a 1 v 1 rule. The poor offences can't break down a 14 player defence. Maybe only 13 players would have give the GAA the balance it wanted. If it made no impression then they could have tried 2 v 2 for 2026. Instead we got 3 v 3 and no defence at all!
I've no wish to be disrespectful towards those who support the new rules. But you have to be aware of the traditionalists perspective. The FRC didn't just do one or two changes to get more pace and offence into the game. They tipped the whole table over. "if my favourite offensive players can't score at will then I'll change all the rules so they can't be stopped!"
It seems more like a Trump Tariff tantrum than any kind of measured action or negotiated compromise.
The message we're getting from RTE and posters here is: "we won, now get stuffed!" We're suppose to be happy losers? We've still got over 130 years of tradition on our side.
If youre on a county panel and you cant kick a ball 45 metres should you be on a county panel?
Yesterday's game was the all Ireland final and worth a thread of its own. Instead we are talking about the rules - Again. Same as in previous years. Only difference was that in the past it was the media boring us about the need for change and now it's a bundle of anoraks* and conspiracy theorists who think the rules were changed to give Clifford the chance to score at will. Could we please give it a rest before Martin Breheny lands in with a post about the curse of hand-passing.
*Sorry for the generalisation and exaggeration - not all headers - have to acknowledge some sensible posters on here have genuine issues with the new rules
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 28, 2025, 09:51:53 PMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 09:42:50 PMHere's my position in a nutshell and should be read in conjunction with my previous posts:
New rules - I'm a big fan, keep them all. I'm excited by how teams adapt and develop around and towards them.
Kerry - best team in the championship at the business end when it mattered. Not by a considerable distance but certainly a distance.
Would Kerry have won it based on the previous rules? I very much doubt it.
Would Clifford have run wild and free in 2025 based on previous rules. I very much doubt it.
It took the rule changes to manufacture this season for Kerry. They didn't adapt to the rules... The rules suit "Kerry football"... The rest will now have to adapt.
And that is totally fine.
If anyone finds this controversial or thinks of it as shite talk then your a balloon and don't know what you're talking about.
Good analysis apart from the last sentence that your opinion is the only valid one.
Agreed new rules are excellent and I believe have saved the game. And agree suit Kerry best as Clifford and other top forwards now has freedom to play without being surrounded by a whole defence. Unfortunately Kerry have the best footballers and this suits them well...
Fair enough on the valid opinion bit. It was more in response to a number of posters "some shite talked, nonsense, bollix, give your head a wobble".
(https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/6ba30e96faa15f1aa2662f0da1974b233b2fce84/109_390_1831_1099/master/1831.jpg?width=1200&height=1200&quality=85&auto=format&fit=crop&s=15d51b434c4fdee5abb7ab57a3574f47)
"Last year was better...."
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 28, 2025, 11:41:44 PMIf youre on a county panel and you cant kick a ball 45 metres should you be on a county panel?
I thought there was a noticeable difference in the quality of kicking between the two teams Sunday.
Kerry hit a couple of foot passes that were absolutely superb throughout the game - just perfect weight right into the chest making things as easy as possible for the receiving player - just absolute dreams of balls to receive - Sean O'Shea had one crossfield ball where Donegal were trying to put Kerry under pressure when they were coming out from the back Donegal weren't doing too badly and had a couple of men up and around the Kerry players and were chasing and harrying well enough - O'Sheas just turned and switched it accross the field - that wasn't the only one but was the most memorable to me. They had a couple more down the other end - there was one where they kicked it around the arc to create a 2v1 that was possibly half a goal chance but instead Kerry took what was a tap-over free.
[On a related note - coaches should really be pushing players to kick pass around the arc as opposed to hand-pass when trying to switch play; hand-passes are slower and also don't have anything like the distance - when you're trying to stretch a side from side to side around the arc - kicking it looks to be a lot more effective in creating overloads.
Donegal's overall kicking by comparison was nowhere near the standard of the Kerry kicking - the few "high" balls they attempted to kick in around the square were of a really poor standard and there was at least one turnover by Kerry that was the result of a poor kick pass out of defence.
Strategically I still think that Donegal's running and handpassing heavy game is a serious disadvantage under the new rules - the teams that are going to win games with the 3up 3back are those that get the most quick balls into their forwards.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 28, 2025, 10:53:50 PMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 05:04:30 PMQuote from: Captain Scarlet on July 28, 2025, 04:36:15 PMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 28, 2025, 04:28:21 PMUntil 7 months ago, every player in Ireland had grown up on a certain ruleset.
Kerry's and David Clifford's impressive 2025 Croke Park performances feel somewhat fraudulent to me as they needed lifetime rule changes to achieve them.
You are dead right, every player did - including the Kerry lads! Or did they get a sneak peek?! Surely FRC's Michael Murphy could have done the same.
I mean for God's sake, what were the FRC thinking?! County players had to learn to kick a point from 40 yards. Midfielders had to learn how to catch it over their heads. And don't get me started on the poor defenders who only had 7 months to learn how to defend one on one...
A blind man could see that Kerry/Clifford had been curtailed by a "System" allowed by the previous ruleset.
It's possible that they would have eventually found a way to overcome it. It's also possible that they wouldn't.
By the end of 2024 they hadn't.
Kerry had very little adapting to do for the new rules - they were designed with Kerry type football in Croke Park in mind after all.
Lol what does this even mean? Good football?
Potentially it means good football yes - but that all depends on what you consider that to be.
For me, Kerry football means a graceful attacking style built on quick ball movement, support play, sharp & accurate kick passing, composed/skillful forwards, flair and a natural rhythm. Purists would probably say that Kerry at their best is the way the game is meant to played.
For me Kerry football (prior to 2025) also meant a naivety towards modern tactics (and a reluctance to do what it took with them in mind), a toothless attack against well drilled defences and disciplined structures and being outworked/out-thought on numerous occasions by teams with a clear tactical gameplan.
I stand by it when I say, without these rule changes (which I am in favour of), Kerry and David Clifford would have continued to struggle.
In terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
Quote from: Spiderlegs on July 29, 2025, 10:03:23 AMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
I mean it took extra-time for Armagh to beat them in the semi-final last year, they lost the final in 2023 by 2 points and they won it in 2022, so there's a strong chance they could have won it this year under the old rules as well so anyone saying they definitely wouldn't have won it under the old rules would have difficulty making all that strong a case. Any rules changes that favoured attacking football were always going to favour a side who had the strongest attack.
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 10:27:41 AMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 29, 2025, 10:03:23 AMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
I mean it took extra-time for Armagh to beat them in the semi-final last year, they lost the final in 2023 by 2 points and they won it in 2022, so there's a strong chance they could have won it this year under the old rules as well so anyone saying they definitely wouldn't have won it under the old rules would have difficulty making all that strong a case. Any rules changes that favoured attacking football were always going to favour a side who had the strongest attack.
Sensible post that, especially that highlighted part.
Kerry were bookies favourite from the get go. I dont understand why the rules are getting ALL the credit, kerry weren't actually tested properly in an All Ireland final because they were too good.
"Kerry were written off" is a line I have heard after Meath. Gavin White talked about the pace of the new rules & the possible injury factor as a result, but we have to wait for stats etc.
They have a bunch of the finest footballers in the country for the last 4-5 years now beginning to realise their potential.
Lightning doesn't strike twice and they produced devastating purple patches in key moments against Armagh and Donegal.
Donegal in theory could have gotten closer but kerry probably would have ramped up again, we will never know.
They are a tougher bunch than many kerry teams of past, mentally and physically.
Quote from: Spiderlegs on July 29, 2025, 10:03:23 AMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
The conspiracy thing is all my fault. I apologize for insinuating that there was a conspiracy. To clarify, my point was that the rules changes suited Kerry perfectly and hurt the counties whose strength was defensive football. More coincidental than conspiracy.
I guess we should admire the Ulster representatives who chose to sacrifice short term Ulster success for the future good of the game. My complaint is not with rule changes. My complaint is with ALL the rule changes at once and how it has completely changed the game overnight. Thus those representatives didn't just sacrifice Ulster's chances of an AI in 2025, they've sacrificed the entire traditional game!
Unintended consequences are always a concern when reform takes place. Fortunately they have this off season to moderate their mistakes and get some balance back into the game.
Regarding Kerry: I would have given them as much chance of winning this year under the old rules as any other county. How much better are they from the previous few years? We'll never know. We can't do a comparison because it was a completely different game this year. They were denied the opportunity to show fans how much better they were. Plus the question will always lurk: where they really better at all or was it just the rules changes?
The rug was pulled out from under the Ulster defensive systems by the FRC. In a sense, it was also pulled out from under the legacy of this Kerry team. Technically any AIs they win under the new rules will be tainted because fans will always ask: would they have won under the traditional rules?
Thus this massive overhaul of the game hurts Kerry as much as everyone else.
I consider myself half decent at pool
Walk into a bar and you could have 57 different varieties of rules depending on who you're playing against
I just defer to what the other person wants to play, when you win there can be no excuses, its quite satisfying too
GAA is codified, everyone plays by the same rules, Kerry won, Sam 2025 is in no way diminished
Sin e
Quote from: EoinW on July 29, 2025, 11:55:40 AMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 29, 2025, 10:03:23 AMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
The conspiracy thing is all my fault. I apologize for insinuating that there was a conspiracy. To clarify, my point was that the rules changes suited Kerry perfectly and hurt the counties whose strength was defensive football. More coincidental than conspiracy.
I guess we should admire the Ulster representatives who chose to sacrifice short term Ulster success for the future good of the game. My complaint is not with rule changes. My complaint is with ALL the rule changes at once and how it has completely changed the game overnight. Thus those representatives didn't just sacrifice Ulster's chances of an AI in 2025, they've sacrificed the entire traditional game!
Unintended consequences are always a concern when reform takes place. Fortunately they have this off season to moderate their mistakes and get some balance back into the game.
Regarding Kerry: I would have given them as much chance of winning this year under the old rules as any other county. How much better are they from the previous few years? We'll never know. We can't do a comparison because it was a completely different game this year. They were denied the opportunity to show fans how much better they were. Plus the question will always lurk: where they really better at all or was it just the rules changes?
The rug was pulled out from under the Ulster defensive systems by the FRC. In a sense, it was also pulled out from under the legacy of this Kerry team. Technically any AIs they win under the new rules will be tainted because fans will always ask: would they have won under the traditional rules?
Thus this massive overhaul of the game hurts Kerry as much as everyone else.
Been catching up on this thread this morning... Of all the crack pot stuff, this is right up there, along with turning the AI final off after 15 mins.
McGuinness, superb manager and motivator that he is, had an absolute nightmare on Sunday. Zonal defence and the over elaborate hand passing within the scoring zone lost them the game. Put the feckin thing over the ball when in the scoring zone ,man mark the oppositions dangermen and they wouldn't have been far away. You can't completely run from risk with the new rules, Jim and Donegal will know for the '26 campaign
"Traditionalists" who bemoan the new rules are really only talking about recent traditions after the massed defence became popular. For the vast bulk of GAA history that was not the way football was played so have we returned to the traditional way where individual battles are key? Every county would love to have a David Clifford with the ability to score the way he can. Once backs relearn how to tackle as individuals things may even up. We are still in the very early days of these new rules and there will inevitably be an evolution of tactics.
Quote from: bringbackdregish on July 29, 2025, 12:27:03 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 10:27:41 AMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 29, 2025, 10:03:23 AMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
I mean it took extra-time for Armagh to beat them in the semi-final last year, they lost the final in 2023 by 2 points and they won it in 2022, so there's a strong chance they could have won it this year under the old rules as well so anyone saying they definitely wouldn't have won it under the old rules would have difficulty making all that strong a case. Any rules changes that favoured attacking football were always going to favour a side who had the strongest attack.
Cheers for that, Michael Owen.
Well the point seems to be lost on a lot of our northern brethren who think it's all been done to help Kerry and thwart Ulster!
Other than kick outs into a crowded area how many "game of contests" has been truly seen this year?
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 28, 2025, 10:38:27 PMYou want a Blue Peter badge for getting closest to Kerry.G Meath be running round saying we beat the All-Ireland champs under that criteria, even though Donegal creamed them for 20.
Good luck to Meath. It is still an amateur game in the end with people mostly going to work the next day.
Tyrone in transition with 4 big retirements possible and no sign of the ready replacements ( especially for the big hard running central spine needed) or tactical nous to win AI. Lots of deep winter thinking and searching needed but being still fundamentally amateur, anything is possible.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 29, 2025, 10:55:11 AMKerry were bookies favourite from the get go. I dont understand why the rules are getting ALL the credit, kerry weren't actually tested properly in an All Ireland final because they were too good.
"Kerry were written off" is a line I have heard after Meath. Gavin White talked about the pace of the new rules & the possible injury factor as a result, but we have to wait for stats etc.
They have a bunch of the finest footballers in the country for the last 4-5 years now beginning to realise their potential.
Lightning doesn't strike twice and they produced devastating purple patches in key moments against Armagh and Donegal.
Donegal in theory could have gotten closer but kerry probably would have ramped up again, we will never know.
They are a tougher bunch than many kerry teams of past, mentally and physically.
These were the odds before All Ireland Quarter finals.
3/1 Donegal
7/2 Armagh
4/1 Galway
9/2 Kerry
7/1 Dublin
7/1 Tyrone
20/1 Monaghan
25/1 Meath
Before last Sunday's final Kerry were slight favourites with the handicap 1 point. Ended up winning by 10, was it case that Kerry made the most out of the new rules in the final or Donegal performed below to their expected level? I think probably the latter when you consider coming into the match Donegal's average score per game was 27 points and had conceded 19. Had they got close to either of those averages it would be a more competitive final as was expected by the bookies. Then again 5 two pointers for Kerry to none for Donegal played it's part in the 10 point margin.
What part of "from the get go" dont you understand. Kerry were bookies favourite before a ball was kicked.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 29, 2025, 03:07:16 PMWhat part of "from the get go" dont you understand. Kerry were bookies favourite before a ball was kicked.
And then weren't favourites fell down to 4th.
Dara O Baoill had several howlers by contrast, quality and experience told in the end.
Felt a lot like Tyrone 2018 V Dublin.
But Tyrone people mostly accepted before the game they had v little chance. Game was never really in doubt from 20th minute.
Does anyone else find the criticism of Jim McGuinness and his strategy a bit OTT after the final. In particular from Spillane and Parkinson. It's not like it's a completely broken system of play.
They got to a final in convincing fashion. They won Ulster. Granted it's not flawless but no system is perfect, had Kerry an off day in terms of shooting 2 pointers we'd be having a different conversation.
A bit of tweaking and loosening up might be all it needs for them to get over the line.
Quote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 10:27:41 AMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 29, 2025, 10:03:23 AMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
I mean it took extra-time for Armagh to beat them in the semi-final last year, they lost the final in 2023 by 2 points and they won it in 2022, so there's a strong chance they could have won it this year under the old rules as well so anyone saying they definitely wouldn't have won it under the old rules would have difficulty making all that strong a case. Any rules changes that favoured attacking football were always going to favour a side who had the strongest attack.
This is spot on.
There is an eejit on this board who has described their win as almost fraudulent as they claim it required new rules to manufacture the Kerry win. Apparently, this is a northern viewpoint, although that may be a generalisation.
Is it possible we have malevolent bots trying to sow division and disinformation in the GAA board because these couldn't be the views of actual people, could they??? :o
;D
Quote from: thejuice on July 29, 2025, 04:25:15 PMDoes anyone else find the criticism of Jim McGuinness and his strategy a bit OTT after the final. In particular from Spillane and Parkinson. It's not like it's a completely broken system of play.
They got to a final in convincing fashion. They won Ulster. Granted it's not flawless but no system is perfect, had Kerry an off day in terms of shooting 2 pointers we'd be having a different conversation.
A bit of tweaking and loosening up might be all it needs for them to get over the line.
Of course it's over the top. Good old fashioned Irish begrudgery.
Jim has overwhelming backing within Donegal, as well as our gratitude, and rightly so. He's human, and at the end of the day it's sport. He'll learn from his mistakes and will have the team pushing for Ulster again next year and, hopefully, another AI semi at least.
Quote from: APM on July 29, 2025, 04:31:25 PMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 10:27:41 AMQuote from: Spiderlegs on July 29, 2025, 10:03:23 AMQuote from: twohands!!! on July 29, 2025, 09:38:11 AMIn terms of the rules suiting Kerry - is that surprising? the FRC based the rules in large part on that survey that almost 10,000 players, coaches, manager and GAA folk answered.
They released the report of what people said they wanted to see under the new rules.
QuoteThe top five skills that people like are kicking, catching, scoring of long-range points, goal scoring and general creative play.
• The top three tactical skills were: 1 v 1 contests to gain possession of the ball; taking on an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation; and good support play during speedy attacking transitions.
• There was a strong dislike from people regarding dissent towards match officials and cynical/delaying tactics.
• In general, people want to see:
- A game where skill and risk taking are rewarded.
- A game which encourages forward momentum.
- A game of contests.
Full report is at the link
There's also a raft of data indicating that the people who responded to the various FRC surverys
Folk going as if the new rules are only popular because of some sort of GAA media conspiracy really need to give their heads a wobble.
https://www.gaa.ie/api/images/image/upload/prd/kiulqmb3ytauroc5prmi.pdf
Also in terms of it being some conspiracy against Northern teams the makeup of the committee
QuotePETER CANAVAN - Errigal Ciaran GAA, County Tyrone
COLM COLLINS - Cratloe GAA, County Clare
MAURICE DEEGAN - Stradbally GAA, County Laois
PATRICK DOHERTY - The Downs GAA, County Westmeath
ÉAMONN FITZMAURICE - Finuge GAA, County Kerry
SHANE FLANAGAN - Johnstownbridge GAA, County Kildare
JIM GAVIN - Round Towers GAA, Clondalkin, County Dublin
JAMES HORAN - Ballintubber GAA, County Mayo
ALEC McQUILLAN - Con Magees Glenravel GAC, County Antrim
MICHAEL MEANEY - Old Leighlin GAA, County Carlow
COLM NALLY - Newtown Blues GAA, County Louth
SÉAMUS KENNY (Runaí) – Simonstown Gaels GFC, County Meath
Plus Jim Gavin as chairperson
Michael Murphy and Malachy O'Rourke were there for a bit as well.
If this was some Kerry grand plan against the North, Eamonn Fitzmaurice must be one hell of a slick-tongued operator.
Not surprising at all that the rules would suit Kerry - in fact it was predicted.
Look anyone going down the route of it being a conspiracy against Northern teams, they're wide of the mark IMO.
But it took rule changes for Kerry and Clifford to get back to this level. Is anyone disputing that? Does anyone believe that Kerry were on their way to becoming champions in 2025 regardless?
I mean it took extra-time for Armagh to beat them in the semi-final last year, they lost the final in 2023 by 2 points and they won it in 2022, so there's a strong chance they could have won it this year under the old rules as well so anyone saying they definitely wouldn't have won it under the old rules would have difficulty making all that strong a case. Any rules changes that favoured attacking football were always going to favour a side who had the strongest attack.
This is spot on.
There is an eejit on this board who has described their win as almost fraudulent as they claim it required new rules to manufacture the Kerry win. Apparently, this is a northern viewpoint, although that may be a generalisation.
Is it possible we have malevolent bots trying to sow division and disinformation in the GAA board because these couldn't be the views of actual people, could they??? :o
;D
As a northerner whose team were just very publicly on the receiving end of Kerry's excellence, I have not seen or heard anyone from my county utter a word about fraud or unfairness. Kerry were absolutely brilliant on the day and played by the same rules we did. They had an all time great player at the top of his game, along with top class performances from a number of his teammates. We were beaten fair and square in almost every position on the field.
This "debate", like much else going on on this board lately, is just internet ignorance platforming and attention seeking and symptomatic of the decline of this place. In my opinion of course.
Fraudulent win me arse.
Quote from: J70 on July 29, 2025, 04:36:43 PMQuote from: thejuice on July 29, 2025, 04:25:15 PMDoes anyone else find the criticism of Jim McGuinness and his strategy a bit OTT after the final. In particular from Spillane and Parkinson. It's not like it's a completely broken system of play.
They got to a final in convincing fashion. They won Ulster. Granted it's not flawless but no system is perfect, had Kerry an off day in terms of shooting 2 pointers we'd be having a different conversation.
A bit of tweaking and loosening up might be all it needs for them to get over the line.
Of course it's over the top. Good old fashioned Irish begrudgery.
Jim has overwhelming backing within Donegal, as well as our gratitude, and rightly so. He's human, and at the end of the day it's sport. He'll learn from his mistakes and will have the team pushing for Ulster again next year and, hopefully, another AI semi at least.
First of how many people take the opinion of Spillane and Parkinson seriously ?
Spillane I'd say at this stage doesn't even seem to take his opinion seriously (most of the time he seems to be jsu playing the class clown and taking money for his old rope opinions while Parkinson the poor lad seems to want to be seen as some great thinker on the game, but pretty much everything he comes out with seems to be something someone else said previously rehashed.
I don't think it's begrudgery so much as it's a pretty strong habit in the GAA that whoever wins the final is right in absolutely everything they did and whoever loses it, is wrong in everything they did.
Quote from: thejuice on July 29, 2025, 04:25:15 PMDoes anyone else find the criticism of Jim McGuinness and his strategy a bit OTT after the final. In particular from Spillane and Parkinson. It's not like it's a completely broken system of play.
They got to a final in convincing fashion. They won Ulster. Granted it's not flawless but no system is perfect, had Kerry an off day in terms of shooting 2 pointers we'd be having a different conversation.
A bit of tweaking and loosening up might be all it needs for them to get over the line.
Leaving Paudie Clifford free was ridiculous.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 29, 2025, 05:00:20 PMQuote from: thejuice on July 29, 2025, 04:25:15 PMDoes anyone else find the criticism of Jim McGuinness and his strategy a bit OTT after the final. In particular from Spillane and Parkinson. It's not like it's a completely broken system of play.
They got to a final in convincing fashion. They won Ulster. Granted it's not flawless but no system is perfect, had Kerry an off day in terms of shooting 2 pointers we'd be having a different conversation.
A bit of tweaking and loosening up might be all it needs for them to get over the line.
Leaving Paudie Clifford free was ridiculous.
Agree but there's an element of building him up as the messiah only to knock him off his perch. Typical media crap
Perhaps but there's a lot talk saying that the zonal defence is done for. I don't think it's off the table because it probably will still work against a lot of teams.
Donegal just need to find another way to defend if a game needs it.
Quote from: J70 on July 29, 2025, 04:36:43 PMQuote from: thejuice on July 29, 2025, 04:25:15 PMDoes anyone else find the criticism of Jim McGuinness and his strategy a bit OTT after the final. In particular from Spillane and Parkinson. It's not like it's a completely broken system of play.
They got to a final in convincing fashion. They won Ulster. Granted it's not flawless but no system is perfect, had Kerry an off day in terms of shooting 2 pointers we'd be having a different conversation.
A bit of tweaking and loosening up might be all it needs for them to get over the line.
Of course it's over the top. Good old fashioned Irish begrudgery.
Jim has overwhelming backing within Donegal, as well as our gratitude, and rightly so. He's human, and at the end of the day it's sport. He'll learn from his mistakes and will have the team pushing for Ulster again next year and, hopefully, another AI semi at least.
And the joy they take in putting the boot in, Parkinson and Dick Clerkin in particular are childish.
I think the era of the podcast has made them all worse, talk shite bigging teams up and then are waiting for the fall to put the boot in (because they all fail bar AI winning team). Classic Brit redtop tabloid approach.
Hardly OTT when 90% of people would picked up on marking P Clifford 20mins in at least. He let that mistake go the whole game.
Personally i find mcguiness over rated in the sense that his management style wouldn't work in any other county. He relies heavily on donegal players buying into the believe that they are some how treated unfairly and forgotten about. He demands absolute dedication and sacrifice.
His path to the final was probably the easiest he could have wished for but did some amount of giving out when every time they lost apart from the final. As soon as any soccer job comes along he will be off however this may not happen as it has been proven his style and approach doesnt work in soccer.
There's a lot of hindsight analysis. It's easy to say now not marking Paudie was stupid. I agree it was but also realise that doing it and man marking 2 players would destroy their zonal defence, the basis of their success all year and that just wasn't an option.
Until the last minute they stopped Kerry getting a goal so he might think it worked from that pov. Donegal played poorly, if they executed their game plan as they had done in other games it would have been closer. That's partly down to Kerry of course but I felt some Donegal players weren't at the races and made mistakes you'd never see them make. When they got it to 4 Mogan had a couple of stupid fouls to put the game beyond them. Clifford also scored some 2 pointers that were low percentage even for him. An even bigger mistake for me from McGuinness was not starting one of McGee or McFadden and taking off Gallen for Mcbrearty.
I think McGuinness will think a lot went wrong for him on the day and on another day those tactics might work with a change to the team selection.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 29, 2025, 07:55:22 PMPersonally i find mcguiness over rated in the sense that his management style wouldn't work in any other county. He relies heavily on donegal players buying into the believe that they are some how treated unfairly and forgotten about. He demands absolute dedication and sacrifice.
His path to the final was probably the easiest he could have wished for but did some amount of giving out when every time they lost apart from the final. As soon as any soccer job comes along he will be off however this may not happen as it has been proven his style and approach doesnt work in soccer.
They lost twice. The final and to your own boys when he admitted you were deserving winners on the night.
I've no idea where you're coming up with this perceived unfair treatment/forgotten county stuff being a major component of how he motivates his squads.
Declan Bonner, Paddy Carr and Aidan O'Rourke clearly missed a major trick if that's a big part of what motivates us Donegal people to succeed. Hope Kevin McHugh is listening across the street in Finn Park.
It was a first AI Final for nearly all the Donegal lads while Kerry were in their 3rd in 4 years.
Maybe the occasion might have affected some Donegal lads.
In my view it was as much Donegal playing badly as Kerry playing brilliantly. Maybe Kerry stopped them from doing so but if they had played as well as they did in the second half of their two previous matches it would have been a very close game. There were a lot of unforced errors which wouldn't be a Donegal thing.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 05:24:33 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Expected 4 point but this is some statement.
McGuinness just ignored the two pointers. Jack embraced them. Kerrys defence put in a serious shift.
Quality team hammer Donegal. Shin é
Kerry keep playing and beating teams whi are "having a bad day".
McGuinness couldn't even give Kerry proper credit and used the tiresome cliché. Kerry were imperious.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 29, 2025, 08:59:27 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 05:24:33 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Expected 4 point but this is some statement.
McGuinness just ignored the two pointers. Jack embraced them. Kerrys defence put in a serious shift.
Quality team hammer Donegal. Shin é
Kerry keep playing and beating teams whi are "having a bad day".
McGuinness couldn't even give Kerry proper credit and used the tiresome cliché. Kerry were imperious.
Why does everyone have to create false narratives about Mcguinness I thought he was very magnanimous in defeat.
No excuses from him at all.
Kerry were on a different level; better all over the field.The other contenders have a big hill to climb
Quote from: befair on July 29, 2025, 10:27:48 PMKerry were on a different level; better all over the field.The other contenders have a big hill to climb
It'll be a tall order ok but I reckon a big component of Kerry's year has been the spite, venom and siege mentality they have fostered. Can't recreate that every year. Next year they will be back to square one along with the rest. I certainly don't think it'll be a cake walk for them. Galway still have incredible talent available to them, Armagh & Donegal will be knocking about.
All the superlatives follow an All Ireland final. Clifford the GOAT.. Kerry heading for the golden years again.. a few months ago the money was on Armagh-Dublin final.
Kerry will be beaten soon enough. Let them enjoy it for now..
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 29, 2025, 11:01:14 PMAll the superlatives follow an All Ireland final. Clifford the GOAT.. Kerry heading for the golden years again.. a few months ago the money was on Armagh-Dublin final.
Kerry will be beaten soon enough. Let them enjoy it for now..
Tyrone would want to develop a few forwards over 6f if you are to knock Kerry off their perch..
Quote from: rodney trotter on July 29, 2025, 11:07:03 PMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 29, 2025, 11:01:14 PMAll the superlatives follow an All Ireland final. Clifford the GOAT.. Kerry heading for the golden years again.. a few months ago the money was on Armagh-Dublin final.
Kerry will be beaten soon enough. Let them enjoy it for now..
Tyrone would want to develop a few forwards over 6f if you are to knock Kerry off their perch..
There are other teams other than Tyrone... not Cavan tho :D
Tyrone will struggle. Lot of experienced heads v close to retirement and you cant just replace that overnight.
If they get a good run next year maybe last bite they'll have at it for a good few years.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 29, 2025, 11:14:42 PMTyrone will struggle. Lot of experienced heads v close to retirement and you cant just replace that overnight.
If they get a good run next year maybe last bite they'll have at it for a good few years.
Seems to be a consensus that Tyrone haven't much coming through which is strange having won three of the last four U20 All Ireland finals and this year's minor All Ireland. U21 & U18 was better to get players through. Don't know who thought it was a good idea to cut that year back.
They simply do not have time to get guys blooded to compete with top teams & manage retirements of very experienced operators.
Sean O Se said the Tyrone game made Kerry focus on their kickouts because they got cleaned out. A shame the forwards were hopeless.
Interesting from Gaelic statsman.
https://x.com/gaelicstatsman/status/1949511105627185625
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 29, 2025, 11:01:14 PMAll the superlatives follow an All Ireland final. Clifford the GOAT.. Kerry heading for the golden years again.. a few months ago the money was on Armagh-Dublin final.
Kerry will be beaten soon enough. Let them enjoy it for now..
We went from the "the most open all ireland in years" to "kerry will dominate the next 5 years and nobody else comes close", all in the space of a few weeks.
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 29, 2025, 11:26:45 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 29, 2025, 11:14:42 PMTyrone will struggle. Lot of experienced heads v close to retirement and you cant just replace that overnight.
If they get a good run next year maybe last bite they'll have at it for a good few years.
Seems to be a consensus that Tyrone haven't much coming through which is strange having won three of the last four U20 All Ireland finals and this year's minor All Ireland. U21 & U18 was better to get players through. Don't know who thought it was a good idea to cut that year back.
Former GAA director general Páraic Duffy, he tried for a few years to get those grades scrapped and eventually got his way before stepping down. U21 level was a better grade to get players through than U20. Next change they have in the pipeline is a U19 grade and U20 no more. What they want U17 to become is full development much like U16 level with no coverage of games.
Quote from: Cunny Funt on July 30, 2025, 07:53:51 AMQuote from: Truthsayer on July 29, 2025, 11:26:45 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 29, 2025, 11:14:42 PMTyrone will struggle. Lot of experienced heads v close to retirement and you cant just replace that overnight.
If they get a good run next year maybe last bite they'll have at it for a good few years.
Seems to be a consensus that Tyrone haven't much coming through which is strange having won three of the last four U20 All Ireland finals and this year's minor All Ireland. U21 & U18 was better to get players through. Don't know who thought it was a good idea to cut that year back.
Former GAA director general Páraic Duffy, he tried for a few years to get those grades scrapped and eventually got his way before stepping down. U21 level was a better grade to get players through than U20. Next change they have in the pipeline is a U19 grade and U20 no more. What they want U17 to become is full development much like U16 level with no coverage of games.
Should have left well enough alone. Wasn't unusual for U21s to be seamlessly making their way into senior county panels now is a bit of a leap.
Same as taking the minor finals out of All Ireland day in Croke Park. They had to mess it up..
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 29, 2025, 10:11:46 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 29, 2025, 08:59:27 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 27, 2025, 05:24:33 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2025, 10:25:38 PMHave my money where my mouth is from Semi final winnings [donegal -3] [kerry-4].
Kerry -2 for Sam
Reasons : kerry are possessed this year. Their defence is underrated.
Despite some injuries they have some depth.
Really rate Dylan Geaney over Paul tbh despite him being raw.
Patton is vulnerable. Gallens form not great but semi will help him.
Kerry much more experienced side. Expect a less heralded player to produce a big display.
Shall wait and see what the Guru comes up with, kerry will take some beating.
Expected 4 point but this is some statement.
McGuinness just ignored the two pointers. Jack embraced them. Kerrys defence put in a serious shift.
Quality team hammer Donegal. Shin é
Kerry keep playing and beating teams whi are "having a bad day".
McGuinness couldn't even give Kerry proper credit and used the tiresome cliché. Kerry were imperious.
Why does everyone have to create false narratives about Mcguinness I thought he was very magnanimous in defeat.
No excuses from him at all.
I agree. Certainly in the interview I seen anyway.
U21 as a nationally recognised standard kept young lads active in the game for another year during that time in life when its easy to drop hobbies in favour of beering and other distractions
Your club U21 championships would have been well contested even if scheduling was a challenge, there was an Ulster U21 club championship that was taken seriously
21yos whether they be county prospects or club senior prospects were benefitting from that extra year of age-group football with their peers
U18 was a natural avenue to introduce young prospects to wider exposure, it worked perfectly, they got to play in tandem with seniors on the big day but with the ground only half full as their game ended - the rationale to withdraw that being framed as welfare is a total ball of shite
Quote from: tiempo on July 30, 2025, 10:48:53 AMU21 as a nationally recognised standard kept young lads active in the game for another year during that time in life when its easy to drop hobbies in favour of beering and other distractions
Your club U21 championships would have been well contested even if scheduling was a challenge, there was an Ulster U21 club championship that was taken seriously
21yos whether they be county prospects or club senior prospects were benefitting from that extra year of age-group football with their peers
U18 was a natural avenue to introduce young prospects to wider exposure, it worked perfectly, they got to play in tandem with seniors on the big day but with the ground only half full as their game ended - the rationale to withdraw that being framed as welfare is a total ball of shite
I'm surprised the GAA would feel a need to change the age structure at all. Mainly because in Canada Junior hockey has always been U21, while Junior lacrosse has been U22. The idea of tinkering with the age has been a non-issue.
They did go woke a few years ago. Someone was offended by the names of minor divisions: Midget(15-16) Bantam(13-14) Pee Wee(11-12) etc... I believe all these terms are now in the bin. In fact I've seen Junior occasionally referred to as U21.
Hockey did change in a big way back in 1979, when the WHA started an underage draft to steal players away from the NHL. Wayne Gretzky being the reason for this. NHL followed suit after it absorbed the WHA. Since then we have 18 year olds drafted and, if they are good enough they leave Junior early to play professionally.
Lacrosse has always been similar to the GAA and the best Junior player is often picked up by his Senior team after the junior season has ended. However the Junior will always play out his career before becoming a full time Senior. The exception being the lacrosse/hockey superstar who also gets raided by the NHL early. That is very rare. Joe Nieuwendyk & John Tavares are the only two I can think of over the past 40 years.
Sorry for rambling. I am just puzzled at the GAA seeming to micromanage an issue that Canadian hocky/lacrosse people basically ignore.
Great kerry minor teams coming to prime now. Can see this kerry doing 7 in a row.
Play football the right way with heads up football and kick passing. None of this hand passing gick.
Man to man football, no sledging or cynical play. Just pure football
5 in a row minors coming of age is very true and more power to them
No chance they do 7up, but you'd expect another 2 or 3 in that time
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 30, 2025, 12:30:27 PMGreat kerry minor teams coming to prime now. Can see this kerry doing 7 in a row.
Play football the right way with heads up football and kick passing. None of this hand passing gick.
Man to man football, no sledging or cynical play. Just pure football
Sounds like you havent watched a Kerry team before
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 30, 2025, 01:12:34 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 30, 2025, 12:30:27 PMGreat kerry minor teams coming to prime now. Can see this kerry doing 7 in a row.
Play football the right way with heads up football and kick passing. None of this hand passing gick.
Man to man football, no sledging or cynical play. Just pure football
Sounds like you havent watched a Kerry team before
He's trolling surely.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 30, 2025, 01:52:48 PMQuote from: tyrone08 on July 30, 2025, 01:12:34 PMQuote from: Dun Eile on July 30, 2025, 12:30:27 PMGreat kerry minor teams coming to prime now. Can see this kerry doing 7 in a row.
Play football the right way with heads up football and kick passing. None of this hand passing gick.
Man to man football, no sledging or cynical play. Just pure football
Sounds like you havent watched a Kerry team before
He's trolling surely.
I would suspect so but given some of comments I have read from Kerry fans its hard to know sometimes.
Now that dust has settled and the hangover is reseeding its fair to say this was Kerry greatest All Ireland since 75 and certainly my lifetime.
The level of adversity this team faced is incredible.
One stat I read was that Mark OShea never played for Kerry at any level before May of this year and he started midfield in an All Ireland final 2 months later.
The injuries Kerry had was incredible throughout the season 6 players from the starting and 2 subs all injured during the summer.
Playing a very tough series of games to make a final.
One last point,
I was never a fan of McGuinness but hes has been shown up again as all talk.
To stand on a line an watch Paidi walk around a pitch and do nothing about it for 70 mins is bizarre.
Unlike 2022 I think Kerry have a panel now to challenge next year and our main rivals have teams with an older profile.
A content winter.
Kerry ABU
Definite WUM
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 30, 2025, 07:06:07 PMNow that dust has settled and the hangover is reseeding its fair to say this was Kerry greatest All Ireland since 75 and certainly my lifetime.
The level of adversity this team faced is incredible.
One stat I read was that Mark OShea never played for Kerry at any level before May of this year and he started midfield in an All Ireland final 2 months later.
The injuries Kerry had was incredible throughout the season 6 players from the starting and 2 subs all injured during the summer.
Playing a very tough series of games to make a final.
One last point,
I was never a fan of McGuinness but hes has been shown up again as all talk.
To stand on a line an watch Paidi walk around a pitch and do nothing about it for 70 mins is bizarre.
Unlike 2022 I think Kerry have a panel now to challenge next year and our main rivals have teams with an older profile.
A content winter.
Kerry ABU
Calm down :D it was another team winning an All Ireland. Apart from David Clifford, there is nothing that remarkable about it. We'll all go again next year. Comhghairdeas! Enjoy it.
If Tyrone lost Kennedy and Kilpatrick, blooded two fairly new guys for midfield roles [Obrien has 9 cship appearances] who help dominate in an All Ireland final, I think people would be gushing more.
Jack Barry to come back as well?
Kerry middle 8 will have some competition for places in 2026.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 30, 2025, 07:54:02 PMIf Tyrone lost Kennedy and Kilpatrick, blooded two fairly new guys for midfield roles [Obrien has 9 cship appearances] who help dominate in an All Ireland final, I think people would be gushing more.
Jack Barry to come back as well?
Kerry middle 8 will have some competition for places in 2026.
I don't think Kerry's win was down to their midfield albeit they did well. You may gush the brothers from Fossa.
Again Comhghairdeas! :D
If you look at the tactic they used you will see they were crucial.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 30, 2025, 09:46:39 PMIf you look at the tactic they used you will see they were crucial.
If you say so. The game has been analysed to death. All hail the Cliffords! Again Comhghairdeas!
Rematch in the Boston Championship.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AifH2ME9f/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Quote from: Truthsayer on July 17, 2025, 11:29:10 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 17, 2025, 11:01:49 PMKerry win this with a bit to spare. Donegal bate twice by Tyrone this year and Donegal played nobody in QF SF
Doesn't really work that way!
Donegal beat the reigning All Ireland champions (albeit so did Kerry).
Kerry lost to Meath and were very lucky to beat Cork.
All on the day man!
Just wanted to point back to this! :)
Quote from: Dun Eile on July 30, 2025, 07:06:07 PMNow that dust has settled and the hangover is reseeding its fair to say this was Kerry greatest All Ireland since 75 and certainly my lifetime.
The level of adversity this team faced is incredible.
One stat I read was that Mark OShea never played for Kerry at any level before May of this year and he started midfield in an All Ireland final 2 months later.
The injuries Kerry had was incredible throughout the season 6 players from the starting and 2 subs all injured during the summer.
Playing a very tough series of games to make a final.
One last point,
I was never a fan of McGuinness but hes has been shown up again as all talk.
To stand on a line an watch Paidi walk around a pitch and do nothing about it for 70 mins is bizarre.
Unlike 2022 I think Kerry have a panel now to challenge next year and our main rivals have teams with an older profile.
A content winter.
Kerry ABU
Mark O'Shea played in an experimental McGrath Cup team in 2020. Also started the league game v Mayo in March.
Kerry's midfield pairing in the final would have been their 5th and 6th choice at the start of the year.
Rumours of Rob Monahan and Cillian Burke coming back from Australia could make Kerry's midfield competition even more intense.
Might end up shoehorning midfielders into the half back line and half forward line, a spot where Tomás Kennedy will also be pushing for a place.
Jack O'Connor will learn from 2022 where the team didn't really improve for the 2023 Championship.
One area to improve is the 2 pointers, Kerry had only two players that scored 2 pointers with a degree of regularity. Will need 4 or 5.