Athlone (A)

[culloty82]

The club will be keen to shift focus firmly back to affairs on the pitch in the coming days, as the Longford controversy distracted from what was one of the most complete performances of the season to date, and returning to the scene of that ?league victory will further bolster confidence that the unbeaten run can continue on Friday. Of course, the Midlanders are firmly in play-off contention, like last week's opponents, but their form has been mixed in recent weeks, with a surprise win over Waterford sandwiched by defeats to Wexford and Cobh. Valeri Dolia has been the thorn in Kerry's side in the H2H meetings this season, scoring in all three encounters to date, though of course, Frantz Pierrot has been more generally prolific over the course of the season. By and large, scoring hasn't been an issue for Kerry in recent games, and if the defence can be as efficient as they were last week, they could escape from the Lake County with a draw, even if it's very much an outside prospect.

[legendz]

I was happy with the defensive effort last week. It should set the standard but there have been repeated mistakes all season. Another good defensive effort can see them possibly get a draw, if not something more.

[legendz]

Kerry are unchanged from last week. No surprises there. Hopefully they can put in another strong defensive performance and convert some scoring opportunities.

[legendz]

A frustrating goal to concede. Thought we'd hold on for at least a point after Gaxha's superb equaliser. Competed well though against an Athlone team who look deserving of a place in the playoffs.

[kingdomkerry]

Good first half although defender should have done better for the Athlone goal. Changing to a flat back 4 was a poor move as never got going in the second half. Thought Ryan Kelliher was very quite and should have made way for an extra body in midfield. Then he made the mistake that gifted Athlone the winner.