Saturday August 11

All Ireland SFC Semi-Final

Dublin v Galway, Croke Park, 5pm

Dublin and Galway haven't clashed in the Championship since the famous decider of 1983.

That day Dublin dealt with three sending offs beating Galway in a tense encounter.

Despite last weekend's surprisingly tame loss to Monaghan 2018 has been an encouraging campaign for Kevin Walsh's Galway outfit.

The last time the Tribesmen had competed in Division One of the Allianz League was in 2011 and they reached the final before being outfoxed in the closing stages by Dublin.

It is also Galway's first All Ireland semi-final appearance in 17 years so several irksome itches have been scratched.

Still Galway will be completely aware that this represents the most demanding test of them all: Dublin at Croke Park remains a daunting proposition.

Jim Gavin's standard bearers have won their six summer outings so far with trademark authority. When Tyrone posed questions late on at Healy Park Dublin found a way and they will want to make another August statement at GAA headquarters.

Brian Fenton's enduring excellence is reflected with his 1-9 total from play thus far so Galway will need to be competitive at centrefield.

Paul Conroy's serious leg injury is a significant blow, but Tom Flynn's form is a source of encouragement. Ensuring Ian Burke, Shane Walsh, and Damien Comer are afforded sufficient possession is what Galway must accomplish if they are to make an impact.

At the opposite end Dean Rock will ruthlessly punish any lapses in concentration, while Paul Mannion and Ciaran Kilkenny carry a threat too.

Gavin usually has Dublin primed for these type of matches so Galway will be eager to make a solid start.