Kerry are back in the All-Ireland final after a five year absence, overcoming Tyrone in a tense affair at Croke Park this afternoon.
It was a game that was in the balance right up until the end, but it was ultimately Kerry's firepower up front that made the difference.
After a poor shooting performance in the first half, major improvements were needed in the second period. Peter Keane got them, and much of that was down to the presence of Tommy Walsh.
The former Aussie rules player has been rarely used during the championship, but he was the game changer today. His aerial presence caused the Tyrone defence to drop deeper, creating more space for the Kerry full forward line.
When the ball came in low, he was first to it every time.
Speaking on Sky Sports after the game, Kieran Donaghy said that Walsh now has to start the final against Dublin, with his strength both in the air and on the ground a huge asset for his team.
Tommy Walsh came in and changed the game for Kerry. They had a focal point, and it kept Tyrone's defence a bit deeper because they were worried about Tommy and the high ball...
He's well able for that (winning low ball), he's not a one trick pony. When he was young player of the year in 2002 before he left to play Aussie rules, he was brilliant. That's what he did predominantly, getting out in front and kicking scores. It's great to see him.
He hadn't played all year, I was wondering why and asking questions. I couldn't understand how he didn't start against Meath, he got 20 minutes and showed glimpses.
He's got to start the final for Kerry. You've got to go with your size, with your big guys. He's an experienced player and a leader in that dressing room. He will be crucial.
Ultimately, it his unpredictability which will be key. You can kick it in high or low to him, and he will keep the Dublin full back line on their toes.
Starting Walsh could be seen as a risk, especially when you consider his lack of game time this year. However, Donaghy believes that taking risks is the only way you can hope of beating the reigning All-Ireland champions.
I would (start Walsh), because it keeps Dublin honest. It keeps them worried about that ball over the top, and as we seen he can win it out in front. Maybe they might look to put one or two early ones in on top of him...
If you're going to try and beat this Dublin team you need to take risks, you need to take chances. You need to put the ball in and Tommy could catch one early on and Kerry could get a goal. You never know.
