Dublin v. Wexford - A Sloppy Mess

Hill 16 La La La

Dublin 2-12
Wexford 1-12
A sloppy mess. That phrase ran through my mind for 70 minutes yesterday in Croke Park. Even Pat Gilroy called the match 'ugly'. The quality of play was poor enough that most think Dublin are no longer serious contenders for the All-Ireland.

Both teams were sloppy throughout and lacked a sense of urgency. The match didn't have the intensity we expect in a Leinster Final. Both teams played defensive football leaving all but 2 behind the ball. There were a shocking number of errant handpasses  and other unforced errors made by both sides but particularly Wexford. Wexford gave up an own goal!

For Dublin, Bernard Brogan had a poor afternoon. The others in the front line - Diarmuid Connolly and Eoghan O'Gara - were awful. Mossie Quinn was brought in but was equally ineffective. Kevin McMenamin at least ran at the defense and made an impact.

I want to end this post with some positives from the day. Alan Brogan was excellent. He was showing for the ball all over the pitch and played with real fire. Ben Brosnan was a constant threat for Wexford and finished with 0-9. Surely Cork and Kerry were delighted yesterday as we seem to be back to a two-horse race for Sam.

Brogan, Dublin Top Kerry by Smallest of Margins

Bernard Brogan's only point from play proved the decider as Dublin defeated Kerry 3-10 to 1-15 as two Gaelic Football powers clashed last night in Croke Park. Similar to the match against Cork last week, Dublin's ability to find goals proved the difference. You can read a match report here.

This was the first match of 2011 I was able to attend in Croke Park. Considering this was a National League match and a cold evening, the atmosphere was good. There were a large number of families with children in attendance - not surprising when such value for money is on offer. The GAA should be commended for their creation of the 'Spring Series' and for their ticket prices.