U21s face severe test against Kildare

Dublin under-21 football manager, Dessie Farrell, knows his side will have to pull out their best display of the campaign so far if they are to prevail in Thursday night’s EirGrid Leinster U21FC Final against Kildare in Páirc Tailteann, Navan (7.30).

The Dubs have been tested by both Laois and Longford so far but the emphatic nature of the Lilywhites’ victories over Offaly and Meath suggests they will present a massive obstacle as the boys in blue attempt to retain the title.

“Kildare have always played a great brand of football with the emphasis on attack," said Dessie.

“They have looked very sharp in their two games so far and both sets of players would be very familiar with each other, which adds to the occasion on Thursday.

“They are a very good side with a lot of talented footballers. They have been putting up some big scores in the championship to date as have we.

“Both sides like to put the emphasis on attack and that should make for a very entertaining spectacle for the neutral,” added Dessie.

Dublin will have to plan for Thursday’s provincial final without in-form forward Killian O’Gara (ankle injury).

The Templeogue Synge St man has been Dublin’s top scorer from play to date (2-5).