Football fans seek to score tickets for final

THE battle for All-Ireland final tickets will probably go on right up to tomorrow’s throw-in but almost every football fan from Kerry and Mayo will be making their way to Dublin for the big match.

Almost 15,000 people will travel by train from the two counties, thanks to a number of extra services laid on by Irish Rail. However, no alcohol will be served or allowed on board the trains tomorrow.

The bookies would lead us to believe it will be the legions from the Kingdom who will be looking forward to the return of Sam Maguire to Tralee on Monday evening.

Last night, most were quoting Kerry at 8-15 to win tomorrow, with Mayo at 11-8.

Those backing a draw yesterday were offered a best price of 8-1.

While a Kerry win could be costly for the bookmakers, traders in the capital will be smiling on Monday regardless of the result. The Dublin City Business Association estimates an average €100 spend by everybody with tickets on match day, meaning an €8 million boost to the economy, before counting those fans who spend a night or two in the city.

While half the fans leaving Croke Park tomorrow will be wearing happy smiles, they might also be well advised to don rainproof clothing.

The latest forecasts suggest that the day will start out dry and sunny, with heavy and persistent rain likely later.