Galway v Roscommon THE STYLE of play Liam Sammon introduced, as much as the string of wins that followed, sent ripples of optimism through the strongholds of Galway. But they hit a wall when Kerry came to town, the sheer presence of the All-Ireland champions a reality check.
It's unclear how Galway have responded or if they can simply tune into their high-flying form of March. But Sammon's selection suggests he has not been showing his full hand, and if bench policy is an indicator, there will be plenty of bodies used in this campaign.
There is a sense of Roscommon being thrown to the lions here. But it may not work out quite so. They have an experience midfield and, in Séamus O'Neill, a man capable of dominating the sky. They have a promising half-forward unit. And they arguably have nothing to lose.
Conor Devanney has the stiffest of assignments, marking Padraic Joyce. Michael Ryan may well opt to spring the best of Roscommon's feted minor team from the bench. And even if Roscommon lose, they can initiate a new era.
Galway have the firepower. Joyce was a joy to watch in the league. That form must translate here if Michael Meehan is to flourish. It is a big day for Fiachra Breathnach, who has worked hard to nail down his starting place.
Roscommon were so badly pummelled in the league they're bound to channel the misery into something positive. But a win for them would be a staggering shock.
GALWAY: P Doherty; K Fitzgerald, F Hanley, G Bradshaw; D Meehan, N Coyne, G Sice; B Cullinane, M Lydon; D Dunleavy, P Joyce, P Conroy; M Clancy, M Meehan, F Breathnach.
ROSCOMMON: G Claffey; P O'Connor, A McDermott, S McDermott; J Rogers, M O'Carroll, D Hoey; S O'Neill, K Mannion; C Devaney, G Cox, C Cregg; S Kilbride, J Dunning, G Heneghan.
Guidelines
In the last episode: Galway won the most recent duel, in 2006, 3-7 to 1-8.
You bet: Galway are at 1 to 10; Roscommon are 7 to 1. A draw 12 to 1.
On your marks: Under Liam Sammon, Galway have entertained and attacked, in contrast to the defensive regime favoured by Peter Ford. But Sammon knows defence is the foundation and the form of Galway's back six will be significant.
Gaining ground: On a sunny day, Pearse Stadium is perfect for football and a nightmare for traffic.
Just the ticket. This all-ticket match has stand prices at €30, sideline at €20 and terrace at €5 for under-16s.
Crystal gazing: Galway will have no excuse if they blow this one.
