The most hotly anticipated inter-county debut since Joe Canning took place in Killarney on Sunday afternoon as Kerry took on Donegal in the opening round of the National League.
After winning consecutive minor All-Irelands, most notably scoring an incredible 4-4 for the Kingdom against against Derry in last September's decider, the desire to see David Clifford play senior football hit a peak in Kerry - and beyond - over the winter.
The young forward eschewed advances from Aussie rules sides saying it was pulling on a Kerry jersey that had dominated his dreams, not playing in the AFL.
That dream came true for Clifford at Fitzgerald Stadium. A lengthy list of injuries for the Kingdom likely ushered Clifford's debut a little earlier than Eamonn Fitzmaurice would have preferred. The Fossa player had been training with the panel in preparation for the league with management saying he would see action at some point during the competition. Though, that action coming in the opening round was probably not in their initial plans.
Clifford played 47 minutes against Donegal before being called ashore by Fitzmaurice to be replaced by Jack Savage. It was a solid showing from the forward.
His first point for Kerry came via a free after 23 minutes of the first half.
It was with his unselfishness rather than his scoring prowess with which Clifford most impressed. He set up 1-2 in the opening half, most notably a goal for Stephen O'Brien.
Minor star David Clifford sets up Kerry’s Stephen O’Brien for the opening goal! pic.twitter.com/fiHYewBCW8
— The GAA (@officialgaa) January 28, 2018
Clifford was not the only young player to impress for Kerry. Sean O'Shea, playing at centre-forward, scored seven points. The Kenmare looked far from overawed by the Kerry number 11 jersey.
Despite Kerry taking a three point and one man advantage into the break - Donegal midfielder Nathan Mullins was sent-off for an off the ball incident in the first half - they made tough work of it in the second half.
Playing against the wind, Donegal looked at times like they were certain winners, leading by four points at one stage. Though Darach O'Connor scored a late goal, Donegal's third of the game, Kerry would add two late points to seal victory.
Dr. Crokes' Daithi Casey fired over a dramatic last second score as Kerry won 2-18 to 3-14.
