Marginal call overshadows dramatic finish in Killarney

This was Roscommon’s first outing under new manager Mark Dowd, and they pushed the All-Ireland champions all the way in an entertaining, hard-fought contest.

The sides went toe-to-toe for the full 70 minutes. David Clifford and Tomás Kennedy found the net for Kerry, while Diarmuid Murtagh scrambled home a crucial three-pointer for Roscommon. Both teams produced impressive attacking play, with Clifford and Daire Cregg particularly influential.

Late drama and rising tension

Kerry were sliced open at times and appeared leggy during the second half, but they dug deep to keep themselves in the game. As the clock wound down, both sides wasted possession while hunting for a decisive score.

With seconds remaining, Kerry were awarded a free on the wing around 60 metres from goal. The decision itself appeared soft. Meanwhile the clock had ticked down to just two seconds.

The decisive moment

With the last play of the game, Seán O’Shea delivered a long ball into the square. Tomás Kennedy rose highest, secured possession, turned, and fisted the ball over the bar just as the hooter sounded.

The score sparked celebrations among the home crowd, but Roscommon players and supporters were left furious. Many felt the buzzer had already gone before Kennedy’s point was scored.

Referee Brendan Cawley stood by his decision, and Kerry escaped with a one-point win.

Debate set to rumble on

While Kerry will be pleased to start their league campaign with a victory, the manner of the finish has overshadowed an otherwise excellent contest. For Roscommon, it was a bitter end to an encouraging performance, with the hooter call likely to be debated long after the final whistle.