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‘It’s 31 against one’ - Fans prepare for the All-Ireland Football final 

"It's always been Kerry and Dublin. It’s when giants meet."
Ellen Kenny
Ellen Kenny

12.11 30 Jul 2023


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‘It’s 31 against one’ - Fans p...

‘It’s 31 against one’ - Fans prepare for the All-Ireland Football final 

Ellen Kenny
Ellen Kenny

12.11 30 Jul 2023


Share this article


Kerry and Dublin fans alike have shown their support for their counties ahead of the All-Ireland Football final this afternoon. 

“It’s 31 against one,” one Dublin fan told Newstalk Reporter Henry McKean on The Hard Shoulder this week. 

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Dublin has not won the Senior Football Championship since 2020, but fans are hopeful they can secure another win this year.

“We’re the fighting Dubs,” a woman said. “We’ll come back. We got the six-in-a-row [before], hopefully we can do it this time.” 

One Dublin fan said the city is “magical” when the team ends up in Croke Park. 

“The atmosphere on [Hill 16], especially for a Dub even though there’s more than just Dubs there now, is fabulous,” another fan said. 

“We’ll keep a lid on Clifford – then we’ll win.” 

Down in Kerry, fans are hoping to retain the title of All-Ireland champions, and they’re confident they can do it. 

Speaking from Tralee, John Mitchels GAA Chairperson Bríd McElligot said there is a “fantastic” atmosphere among fans. 

“It's a wonderful time, challenging, obviously with tickets and trying to get everyone sorted, but we're well on our way,” she said.  

"It should be a fantastic game of football – we're really looking forward to being back up in Croke Park for a final, hopefully building on the success of last year.” 

'When giants meet'

Tomás, aged 12, said his mam is from Dublin and his dad is from Kerry – but he’s a Kerry man through-and-through. 

“There might be a bit of a battle,” he said. 

“David Clifford’s a talent – he's probably the best Kerry player I know.” 

John Mitchels Senior Team Player James Moran said “it means a lot” to be going against Dublin this afternoon. 

“Dublin is always the biggest team to play,” he said. “It’s just the rivalry – it's always been Kerry and Dublin. It’s when giants meet.

“I can’t see Kerry not winning it. I’d say it’ll be a comfortable win. 

“[Dublin] has six-in-a-row... everyone wants to see a new winner.” 

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