The Thrill of the Allianz Football League Finals

As we approach the 20th anniversary of a memorable Croke Park pitch invasion, the excitement for the Allianz Football League finals is palpable. The pitch invasion after the 2003 Allianz League Division 2 final between Monaghan and Meath is a testament to the euphoria and drama that these matches can bring.

In that thrilling encounter, Meath led Monaghan by two points with just minutes left. Paul Finlay, a Farney great, was set to take a crucial free that could have rescued the title for Meath. However, his floated effort was slightly off, and Mark Ward, standing on the goal-line, inadvertently punched the ball into his own net, sparking an outpouring of joy from Monaghan fans.

The Significance of the League Finals

The Allianz Football League finals are more than just matches; they are a celebration of the thrills and spills that make Gaelic football so beloved. These finals provide seven rounds of intense competition between evenly-matched teams, offering a unique blend of excitement and unpredictability.

However, the apathy surrounding the lower divisions’ finals is a concern. Promotion is the key aim, but the extra game that comes with it should be treated with the fanfare of a provincial final. The buy-in from players and management should match the significance of these matches.

Key Matches and Teams to Watch

This weekend, the spotlight is on Offaly, Kildare, Wexford, and Limerick. These teams have a chance to create their own memorable moments and potentially earn rare senior football silverware.

Kildare, for instance, will be looking to follow the example of Armagh, who transferred Division 3 titles into regular Division 1 football and a Sam Maguire success. Limerick and Wexford might be eyeing a Tailteann Cup victory in the near future.

Did You Know?

The 2003 Division 2 final between Monaghan and Meath was a collector’s item. The player put a metre too much on his floated effort leaving Mark Ward, standing on the goal-line, with the simple task of diverting the ball over the bar, only he got his calculations wrong and punched into his own net.

Pro Tips for Enjoying the Finals

To fully enjoy the Allianz Football League finals, tune in to the action on rte.ie/sport and the RTÉ News app. Watch Allianz League Sunday from 9.30pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. Listen to updates on RTÉ Radio 1.

FAQ Section

• Q: What makes the Allianz Football League finals so special?

  A: The finals offer a unique blend of excitement and unpredictability, with evenly-matched teams competing for promotion and glory.

• Q: Which teams are competing this weekend?

  A: Offaly, Kildare, Wexford, and Limerick are the teams to watch this weekend.

• Q: How can I watch the matches?

  A: Tune in to rte.ie/sport and the RTÉ News app. Watch Allianz League Sunday from 9.30pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. Listen to updates on RTÉ Radio 1.