Match Predictions: 30 July 2010 - Quarterfinals

We are down to the final eight in 2010!  I can't wait to watch the matches this weekend.  I think Cork are the only ones who will have an easy win.  I have to agree with the oddly anonymous predictions on the Hoganstand site.  My picks for this week are Kerry, Tyrone, Cork, and Kildare.

Kerry v Down Verdict:Kerry

The men from Down poured in the scores last week against Sligo.  Let me assure you - Kerry is nothing like Sligo.  Down and Kerry both have injury concerns going into the match and Kerry have Tomas O'Sé and Paul Galvin suspended.  It will be a close one but Down have too many questions and Kerry have too many answers - particularly in the front 6.

Tyrone v Dublin Verdict: Tyrone

This one will not be as close as most others think.  Jason Sherlock is deluding himself in his column if he thinks a Dublin win in Omagh in March matters now. Dublin rely on athleticism and strength as well as a big crowd to power their way to victory.  Pat Gilroy is changing their style of play, but it hasn't changed enough.  The Dubs come up against a hardened, swarming mass of red and white jerseys.  Tyrone dictate the style of play in every match.  Dublin lack flexibility and will not be able to adjust.  I think Kevin Nolan and a few others on the Dublin squad give supporters a lot to look forward to but again the Dubs are not there yet.

Cork v Roscommon Verdict: Cork

Anyone who thinks Cork were soft last weekend doesn't understand how good Limerick have become over the last few summers.  Cork and Kerry were lucky to get past them.  Roscommon don't match-up well at all with Cork and will be overwhelmed.  I think this match is a good indicator of the future of football - what I mean to say is that strength will defeat skill on the day, mainly because defenders are allowed to interfere and slowdown play at every turn (I'll write more about this after the Championship).

Kildare v Meath Verdict: Kildare

The bookies had this one at 'Evens' the last time I checked.  I'm really looking forward to this one because it is so evenly matched.  I have to pick Kildare though based on their play thus far in the qualifiers.  Meath will have to dictate tempo and control possession if they are going to stop the Kildare side that are all too happy to score 15 from play while kicking 25 wides.  The excitement and the pressure suit Kildare's style and I can't see their accuracy problems continuing.  Surely Kieran McGeeney had his squad shooting all week like a Larry Bird training session!