When the season’s fixtures were unveiled, one date leapt off the page for football fans in Tralee: the penultimate round 10 clash between Austin Stacks and Kerins O’Rahillys. 

A rivalry steeped in history, passion, and local pride, it’s the kind of fixture that defines a season—regardless of what’s at stake. But this year, it’s not just about bragging rights. It could decide the title. 

Last season painted a very different picture. Austin Stacks were clawing their way back to Division 1, having suffered the sting of relegation - an extra time defeat to us in Austin Stack Park adding salt to their wounds. Their promotion campaign was gritty, determined, and ultimately successful. 

Meanwhile, we were teetering on the edge. It took a final day win to secure our top-flight status, a narrow escape that left fans relieved but wary. 

Given those circumstances, many assumed this year’s derby might be a relegation four pointer—a desperate scrap for survival. Few, if any, dared to dream it could be a title decider. 

But football, as ever, writes its own script. Both sides have defied expectations this season. 

Both sides have identical records - played 9, won 7, one draw and one loss; our away defeat to Glenflesk and the points shared in Puck the only blemishes on a fine season. 

Stacks only defeat was in Spa and they shared the spoils with Dr Crokes in Lewis Road - a location where we pilfered a win when finishing with 12 men! 

It's a testament to the "Rockie" machine that they find themselves in this position, especially considering the formidable list of absentees. Manager Dara Long, recently appointed to the senior helm after a successful stint with the Kerry Ladies, has certainly been tested in his early tenure. He's had to navigate the loss of key Kerry seniors in Dylan Casey, Joe O'Connor, Armin Heinrich and Joey Nagle all of whom will be significant players come championship time. 

Further complicating matters is the impact of their own U21s success. While a cause for immense pride within the club – and indeed, Austin Stacks were crowned U21 champions in 2024, bridging a 22-year gap – it has meant that some of their most promising young talents, who would ordinarily be pushing for senior starts, were firmly focused on county commitments and navigating the transition to senior inter-county football. This leaves Dara Long in a position where he's had to dig deep into the experienced core of the squad. 

Indeed, Long has been forced to rely heavily on the "older brigade." Names like Shane O'Callaghan, who has consistently delivered crucial scores, and the ever-reliable Greg Horan in midfield, have stepped up admirably.This reliance on experience highlights a fascinating aspect of Stacks' current campaign. While their U21 success points to a bright future, it's the current depth of their senior panel, and the willingness of their veterans to rise to the occasion, that has them vying for the Division 1 title. 

Father Time and injuries, the twin adversaries of every athlete, saw us commence our campaign without David Moran, Tommy Walsh, Shane Brosnan and Munster winning captain Ross O’Callaghan - however, BJ & Con seem to be ageing in reverse, providing invaluable leadership fuelled by experience and passion. 

From the outset, we made it clear we intended to lay down an early marker. The victories against perennial strongholds like Kilcummin and Dr. Crokes, alongside impressive displays against Spa and Beaufort, weren't just wins; they were statements. 

At the heart of this attacking resurgence has been the much-anticipated return of Jack Savage. His vision, exquisite kicking, and ability to unlock defences have provided a significant creative spark. His accuracy, especially from placed balls saw him hit 0-12 vs Ballymac, 0-10 vs Spa and 0-07 vs Legion - his loss on Sunday will be sorely felt. 

However, the real damage has been inflicted by our deadly inside trio: the two Conors (Hayes and O'Sullivan) and Darragh O'Connor. Hayes and O'Sullivan, with their predatory instincts and clinical finishing, have tormented opposition defences, turning half-chances into goals with alarming regularity. But it's Darragh O'Connor who continues to flourish, emerging as a genuine attacking talent. 

Yet, for all the attacking flair, the true launchpad for many of our devastating moves has been the midfield combination of Tom Hoare and BJ Keane. Tom’s high fielding, athleticism and relentless work rate, coupled with BJ’s intelligent distribution and football nous, have often given us control in the engine room. They win primary possession, break lines, and consistently deliver quality ball to our forwards, making them an indispensable duo. 

Further adding to their attacking thrust and defensive solidity are the impressive performances from wingbacks Gearóid Dillane and Daniel Bowler. These two have truly taken hold of the number 5 and 7 jerseys respectively, providing relentless support on the flanks, bombing forward to join attacks, and tracking back diligently to nullify opposition threats. Their energy and ability to influence both ends of the pitch have been crucial. 

And then there's the exciting glimpse into the future, with the incipient talents of Jake Foley, Tomás Kennedy, and Ben Hanafin hinting at even more depth to come. 

This combination of returning stars, a lethal attacking unit, a dominant midfield, dynamic wingbacks, and a promising youth contingent has transformed us into a formidable force. We have not just surprised the league; we have redefined expectations and positioned ourselves perfectly for what promises to be an epic Division 1 title showdown. 

To predict a winner would be futile given the unpredictable nature of such a high-stakes local clash. The senior county championship final in 2021 was over before it began when Gavin O’Brien was injured in the warmup and the loss of David Moran a few minutes into the contest were curve balls nobody could have anticipated - the senior relegation play off in 2023 was decided in extra time when Cormac Coffey curled an exquisite lob into the Mitchels goal end to decide the encounter. 

This is a game that will be decided by moments, by guts, and by raw desire. Tralee will hold its breath, and by Sunday evening, we will have our champions elect – but until then, it's anyone's guess.