Mike Quirke: Kerry as cool as the other side of the pillow

Just moments before the senior semi-final throw-in last Sunday, the winning Kerry minor squad appeared from under the Hogan Stand and walked up past the senior subs to take their position close by. They had been the appetiser, a tasty one at that. Now they had ringside seats to get a full appreciation of what their future may hold.

Eamonn Fitzmaurice and Cian O’Neill were in final preparation mode in their technical area as the teams paraded around Croke Park, but both took the time to congratulate each member of the minor management team as they passed by.

Last out of the tunnel, with a mouth full of a half-eaten banana, was a very relaxed and satisfied looking Jack O’Connor. He and Eamonn paused for a brief chat, a mixture of congratulations and best of luck.