Kerry are on a roll at the moment, winning their fifth league game on the trot. While Monaghan put up a strong challenge in difficult conditions in Killarney today, the home side would ultimately run out winners on a scoreline of 0-17 to 0-13
It has been a dream start for new manager Peter Keane, who has tightened up his side's defence without losing too much of their potency in attack. Remarkably, he has won every game that he has been in charge of Kerry for, both at minor and senior level.
It’s not how you start but how you finish - is this new look @Kerry_Official team’s motto - Peter Keane continues to find a way to win - that’s 22 games now as Kerry minor and senior manager and 22 wins - some record
— Sylvester Hennessy (@Slyone1069) March 3, 2019
The efforts of Kerry's labour at minor level have really started to bare fruit now. A number of quality young players are now starting to establish themselves in the team, and there certainly seems to be exciting times ahead in The Kingdom.
One of the bright spots early in this campaign has been the form of Sean O'Shea. The 20-year old recently led UCC to Sigerson glory, and has also been on fire for his county in the league thus far.
He notched an incredible 0-8 in today's victory, with the highlight being this incredible point straight from a sideline kick.
Seán O’Shea lands a class point from a sideline for @Kerry_Official pic.twitter.com/ARBmLpXde4
— The GAA (@officialgaa) March 3, 2019
Wow. O'Shea actually has previous form for this sort of thing, having scored from a remarkably similar position against Tyrone a month ago.
Kerry now look well on their way to a first league final since 2017, but who they will face remains to be seen. Dublin, Mayo, and Galway are all vying for the second spot, while Tyrone also still have an outside chance.
#AllianzLeagues Football Division 1 Table after Round 5.
Mayo 0-12 v 1-11 Galway
Tyrone 1-15 v 0-09 Cavan
Roscommon 1-12 v 2-14 Dublin
Kerry 0-17 v 0-13 Monaghan
All to play for, at both ends.#Cavan #Dublin #Galway #Kerry #Mayo #Monaghan #Roscommon #Tyrone #gaaleaguetables pic.twitter.com/VfH90eDKJA— GAA League Tables (@GAALeagueTables) March 3, 2019
Peter Keane will no doubt be confident of securing a result regardless of the opponent, and triumph in that game would be the perfect start to what could be a massive year for Kerry football.
