Dubs and Kerry set for early rematch

KERRY are set to return to Croke Park to face All-Ireland conquerors Dublin as early as February.

Jack O’Connor’s side have been provisionally drawn to face the champions for the second successive Allianz Football League Division 1 campaign at GAA headquarters with the game likely going ahead on Saturday February 4.

“We have no issue with it,” said Kerry secretary Peter Twiss. “These things work on a two-year cycle, plus it’s a great game to start the league.”

Kerry will have one more game at home next year although they are pencilled in for a league date away to Cork on March 18.

Having played four games at home last year, Dublin are expecting to be on the road more next season with potential trips to Cork, Down, Laois and Mayo. “There’s a new draw this year and we have got Armagh, Donegal and Kerry (at home),” said Dublin chairman Andy Kettle.

Dublin are also looking into the possibility of staging one of their home football and hurling league games on a Friday evening but discussions are ongoing about the possibility of a double header.

As reported yesterday, Limerick and Clare’s Allianz Hurling League Division 1B opener could take place on Friday evening, February 24.

Dublin, who unsuccessfully attempted to have their Division 1 game against Mayo played on a Friday last March, have not ruled out staging a fixture on the weekday evening. “Any issues or reservations that may have existed about Friday league games have evaporated,” said Kettle. “(Páraic Duffy) has made some encouraging comments in relation to the matter.”

Kettle dismissed speculation that Pat Gilroy will confirm an extension to his term as Dublin manager at the televised All Stars ceremony this evening.

“We haven’t as of this moment,” said Kettle. “There have been no arrangements. It would unusual for Pat to go off on a solo run but that’s not to say something might happen at one or two day’s notice.”

Meanwhile, former Wexford footballer Ross Dunphy is expected to be confirmed as new Tipperary hurling physical trainer after this weekend.

Dunphy previously worked successfully with Tipperary coach Tommy Dunne’s Toomevara.

He is expected to replace Cian O’Neill, who is in line to join Mayo’s backroom team.