The good Laois came out the last day against Armagh and will be in determined mood for this, Kerry's crack at the one senior title the county has never won.
Laois's forwards played well in the semi-final, saving their best form until facing the wind and tightening up on a previously parsimonious Armagh. Ian Fitzgerald returned in attack and with Beano McDonald in fine form, the only blot on the day was Chris Conway's penalty miss.
Kerry's semi-final was more low-key, re-visiting last September's horror show against Meath. The Leinster champions had slumped all the way down the scales of motivation and gave a listless performance. Kerry did enough to win and could take comfort from a good display from rookie centrefielder Séamus Scanlon, as well as Noel Kennelly's urgent contribution. With virtually nothing at stake, this is the sort of match for which Kerry will find difficulty in rising themselves - as has happened already this season.
Laois have hit form at the right time with the championship starting next weekend. Kerry are out a week later. Despite - or because of - these distractions, it's anyone's game, with Laois maybe more motivated.
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