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. 

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.” 

Podcast: All-Ireland: 'When giants meet!' - Henry visits Kerry and Dublin https://t.co/xt5VBuScyo via @NewstalkFM @kierancuddihy @TheHardShoulder #AllIrelandFinal @johnmitchelsGA1

— Henry McKean (@HenryMcKean) July 28, 2023

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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