Padraic Joyce happy as Galway's strength in depth grows

Last year’s All-Ireland finalists were two-point victors in Pearse Stadium and most encouragingly for Padraic Joyce, new faces helped they do it

SATISFIED: Galway manager Padraic Joyce before the Allianz Football League Division 1 match between against Kerry at Pearse Stadium in Galway. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

For the first time since 2018, Galway secured victory against Kerry. Last year’s All-Ireland finalists were two-point victors in Pearse Stadium and most encouragingly for Padraic Joyce, new faces helped them do it.

The team that finished the game for Kerry had four changes from the one that started last year’s decider. For Galway that number was six. The recalled John Maher, one of the standout stories of the league, kicked two points from midfield. Sean Fitzgerald and Johnny McGrath held their own in the full-back line. Peter Cooke’s rise after his recent return continues.