Ball boy warning forced Kerryman’s retreat

Donnchadh Walsh’s first-half goal for Kerry was one of the standout memories of last year’s All-Ireland semi-final classic against Dublin.

But the scorer did anything but celebrate, instead sprinting back to his wing-forward position. Why the rush? Step forward Dublin goalkeeper Stephen Cluxton.

Earlier this week, Kerry manager Eamonn Fitzmaurice claimed the ball boys behind the goals in Croke Park operated in Dublin’s favour.

“If Dublin are behind, there is one fella rolls [the ball back to the keeper] from one side and another from the other,” he said.

“Let’s say a Kerry back kicks it back to him to slow the game down, another ball comes straight in from the other side. Magic! If Dublin are ahead, you won’t see any ball, you have to go looking for it.”

Walsh revealed Fitzmaurice had brought it to their attention prior to the game. “We do a lot of analysis on opposition teams and do a lot ofanalysis on Dublin and their kick-outs. One of the things mentioned was the speed with which they can get the ball to Cluxton and Cluxton has the ball on the tee and it’s banged out there.

“What can we do about it? Very little. All you can do is once you score or kick a wide get back into your position and be alert 100%.”