RTÉ GAA analyst Peter Canavan has forecasted a return to a higher number of goals in the latter stages of the All-Ireland Championship, following the introduction of new rules in football. Canavan believes the changes will open up the game and make scoring goals more frequent once again.
Reflecting on the 2024 championship, Canavan noted that from the All-Ireland quarter-final stage onward, only one team—eventual champions Armagh—scored more than one goal in a game. That came in their victory over Roscommon, where Barry McCambridge and Conor Turbitt found the net. Additionally, Armagh’s semi-final win over Kerry was the only game where both sides scored goals.
“Many of the big games last year, the provincial finals and quarter-finals, were devoid of goals,” the Tyrone legend told RTÉ Radio 1. “The defensive structures in many teams involved packing the defense, which left it difficult for teams to break through. This resulted in a lot of side-to-side passing, frustrating both players and supporters.”
However, Canavan is optimistic that the new rules, aimed at encouraging more attacking play, will help change this trend. “It’s going to take some time, but I think it’s for the better,” he said, acknowledging that teams will need time to adjust but will ultimately benefit from the changes.
Canavan pointed to Donegal as a team that could particularly benefit from the changes, especially with the return of Michael Murphy. Murphy, who was reported to have played as a goalkeeper in recent challenge games, could prove pivotal in implementing the new rules. “One key change is that teams are now required to keep three players up front,” Canavan explained. “Teams will likely use a big target man inside, and Murphy could be perfect for that role.”
Under the new rules, full-forwards no longer have to track back, making it easier for taller players like Murphy to stay in an attacking position without being exploited by opposition teams.
Looking ahead to the championship, Canavan sees the possibility of a highly competitive tournament, with the chance for a fifth different winner in as many years. “Armagh’s win last year gives hope to teams that they’re very much in the mix,” he said. “It wasn’t just the fact that they won, but the way they bounced back from years of near-misses. They showed they can play some great football and are tough to break down.”
Canavan also acknowledged the challenges facing other top teams. Dublin, with the loss of James McCarthy and Brian Fenton, might not be as dominant, while Kerry and Mayo will be looking to bounce back after near-misses in previous seasons. “Mayo came close last year, and they have the potential to win Sam. If Armagh can do it, so can they,” he added.
With the introduction of new rules and a highly competitive field, 2024 promises to be an exciting year for the All-Ireland Championship.