The day Tyrone brought Kerry to its knees

By their own own admission, Kerry were “out-fought and out-thought” by Tyrone in the All-Ireland semi-final. Jim O’Sullivan reflects on Mickey Harte’s 2003 masterplan to bring the Kingdom to its knees.

MICKEY HARTE knew months in advance of Tyrone’s 2003 All-Ireland semi-final with Kerry how he would plan his strategy. His priorities included limiting the influence of Darragh Ó Sé at midfield and closing off the supply of ball to Colm Cooper - the latter achieved by half-forwards “tracking” back to help out the defence.

In his book, “Kicking Down Heaven’s Door”, Harte revealed how he studied a tape of Kerry’s League game against Dublin - and how he decided on their tactical approach.