Kerry and Dublin secure places in Division 1 final – Allianz National Leagues

Dublin and Kerry were both victorious in today’s doubleheader at Croke Park as they saw past Donegal and Roscommon respectively to set up a fantastic Division 1 final.

Kerry 3-15  Roscommon 0-14

Kerry put on a clinical display today which secured their place in the Division 1 final for the first time since 2009. Roscommon had contained the Kingdom in the opening ten minutes but the 19-time champions scored an impressive 1-05 in six minutes to pull clear of the Rossies. Colm Cooper scored Kerry’s first goal of the day and six minutes from the break Donnchadh Walsh did well to keep possession before finding the back of the net. A defensive calamity three minutes into added time saw man of the match Darran O’Sullivan score the third goal. A relaxed second half followed for Kerry who defended well despite Roscommon’s advantage of playing with the wind.

Disciplined defending from Marc O’Se, Shane Enright and Mark Griffin along with Kieran Donaghy will put a smile on the face of Kerry manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice. The only concern for Fitzmaurice was the injury Johnny Buckley sustained however he can take consolation in being able to introduce veteran Bryan Sheehan from the bench following an absence due to a wrist injury. All in all Kerry’s first half masterclass in passing and attacking football proved too much for a developing Roscommon side.

Dublin 1-20  Donegal 0-13

Bernard Brogan killed this tie in the first minute of the second half when he fired home a well worked goal for the Dubs. Donegal had done well to keep pace with a rampant Dublin side in the first half but a Dublin win never looked to be in doubt. Dean Rock had fired the Dubs ahead and went on to score five points – three from frees. Dublin’s defence was well equipped to snuff out Donegal’s hard earned chances. Bernard Brogan displayed his killer instinct in front of the posts and will be happy with his score of 1-2 from play. A strong Dublin display dismantled Donegal today and sets up a repeat of last year’s All Ireland Final.

Dublin will face Kerry in the Allianz National Football League Division 1 final on Sunday the 24th of April in what is sure to be another fascinating game.