Kennedy goal the difference as Kerry hold off Kildare rally under new hooter rule

Tomás Kennedy, who featured briefly for Kerry in last year's championship, scored 1-2.  Both halves of the game ended immediately after the hooter sounded, as per the new regulations.

Liam Smith of Kerry in action against Callum Bolton of Kildare during a challenge match at Cedral St Conleth's Park in Newbridge, Kildare. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Senior football challenge: Kerry 1-18 Kildare 0-19

No Jack O'Connor, no problem for Kerry who signed off on their programme of games for 2025 with another morale boosting win in Newbridge.