Allianz Football League: Results, TV & Radio Schedule & Team Assessments – Final Round Preview
The final round of the Allianz Football League is upon us, a compelling culmination of a season that has defied easy predictions. While some teams have already secured their fates, a complex web of permutations means that 28 counties still have something to play for this .
Kerry, already crowned 2025 Allianz Football League Division 1 Champions after their victory over Mayo at Croke Park (1-18 to 1-10), head into their clash with Armagh at the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds with a comfortable cushion. The win over Mayo, as reported by Kerry GAA, showcased their dominance, even without hitting top gear. Jack O’Connor’s side demonstrated a key advantage in winning clean possession from kick-outs, a factor that proved crucial against a struggling Mayo. The Clifford brothers, Paudie and David, were particularly influential, with David contributing four points from play and winning four frees despite an unusually profligate performance with five wides.
However, Kerry’s form hasn’t been without its moments of slackness, as noted in an RTÉ report. Games against Roscommon and Galway saw a dip in intensity, and David Clifford’s absence in the loss to Donegal highlighted their reliance on key players. Despite these minor setbacks, their overall performance suggests they are well-prepared for a challenging championship summer.
The match against Armagh presents a significant test. Armagh’s surge past Dublin last weekend, fueled by Oisín Conaty’s spectacular goal, demonstrated their potential. However, a lack of goals throughout the league may ultimately hinder their chances of remaining in the top flight. Facing Kerry on home soil is a formidable challenge, but it provides valuable preparation for a potentially lengthy Ulster campaign.
Elsewhere in Division 1, the stakes are high. Dublin, currently in a precarious position, face Galway at Pearse Stadium. Their recent kickout malfunctions, particularly against Armagh, have been a source of concern for Ger Brennan, who is seeking a more risk-reward approach. A lack of a “imply streak” around the middle of the field is as well an area Brennan is looking to address.
Roscommon, enjoying a strong season with Enda Smith leading the charge, will be looking to continue their momentum. Their victory over Donegal was a testament to their resilience and ability to find a second wind when needed. Galway, still in the relegation mix, will be hoping to secure a settled squad and rediscover the form that saw them reach previous heights.
The situation in Division 2 is equally intriguing. Cork, having secured a place in the Sam Maguire Cup after winning the Tailteann Cup last year, are guaranteed a spot in the top tier. However, their league form has been inconsistent, and a loss to Tyrone could complicate matters. Meath, on an upward curve under Robbie Brennan, are poised to seal promotion away to Offaly, their ability to score two-pointers or a string of quick goals proving decisive in several games.
Derry will be hoping for a favour from Tyrone against Cork, as they aim to take care of business at home against Cavan. A return to Division 1 would be a positive start to a year where even greater ambitions lie. Louth, with a recent win over Derry to their credit, are also in the promotion mix, while Tyrone, despite being pre-season favourites, have underperformed and could find themselves in a relegation battle.
The complexities extend to the lower divisions. In Division 3, Down have already secured promotion, while Westmeath and Wexford are locked in a tight race for the second promotion spot. A draw for Westmeath against Wexford will be enough to observe them return to Division 2. The league final winner will be seeded higher than the team they defeat, adding another layer of importance to the divisional finals.
Division 4 sees Carlow, Wicklow, London, and Longford all vying for promotion, with Antrim also in contention, though their path is the most challenging, requiring a win against London and favourable results elsewhere. Waterford, unfortunately, have had a winless campaign.
The weather forecast for predicts generally cloudy conditions with a little rain, clearing to mostly dry weather with some bright spells. Temperatures are expected to reach 10 to 14 degrees with light to moderate southwesterly winds.
With so much at stake across all four divisions, and a final-day scenario mirroring an intricate web of possibilities, the Allianz Football League promises a thrilling conclusion. The staggered throw-in times will allow for careful analysis of the permutations, as every point, two-pointer, and goal could have significant consequences for the teams involved.