Kerry welcome Down to Fitzgerald Stadium at 7pm this Saturday evening, in what is a real relegation battle, in Division One of the Allianz National Football League. Both sides desperately need the points if they are to survive another season in the top flight.
Two of the traditionally strong counties in Gaelic Football, it is somewhat of a shock to see Kerry and Down fighting for their lives at the bottom of the table. One of these sides will almost certainly be relegated at the end of the current campaign, and a defeat tonight would end Kerry’s slim hopes of staging a last minute escape.
Form
Up until last weekend both teams had failed to register a victory, but the Mourne men put that right when they surprisingly beat Mayo. Kerry were unable to see off Donegal in another relegation battle, having seemingly improved against Kildare the previous weekend. At this stage of the season, the Kingdom will need a miracle to survive in Division One, and there is little evidence to suggest that they can do so. A defeat on Saturday night is almost unthinkable however, and if they were to lost this game, there could be a revolt in the county.
Team News
Kerry have rung the changes but it may be too late. Declan O’Sullivan makes his first start of the season, Anthony Maher returns to midfield, Brian Maguire and Fionn Fitzgerald come into the defence, and Paul Galvin is named on the bench. Down have yet to name their team.
Players To Watch
Kieran Donaghty is back at full forward for Kerry for this match and the Austin Stacks man will be hoping for a big performance, as he attempts to save his county from relegation. Benny Coulter is the Down danger man and Kerry will need to monitor him closely.
Betting Advice:
Kerry should finally pick up their first points of the National League campaign but at 4/7 with Boylesports.com it would be a brave punter that takes those odds. Again, no bet is advised.
