Kerry first qualifiers

The weekend's penultimate series of NFL fixtures has left plenty to play for when the final matches take place next Sunday week…

The weekend's penultimate series of NFL fixtures has left plenty to play for when the final matches take place next Sunday week. So far, Kerry are the only qualifiers for the semi-finals as they can't be caught in Division One A.

Behind Kerry there are three counties with a chance of qualifying. Two points off the leaders on eight points are Roscommon and Dublin. A point back, Galway retain an outside chance but have to travel to Killarney although they will hope for a less focused challenge with Kerry already qualified.

Roscommon are at home to Donegal and Dublin host Cork, both difficult matches against teams still in the relegation frame but Roscommon have the edge with a superior scoring average.

Scoring averages (total scored divided by total conceded) will be the sole determinant of finishing positions so there will be no play-offs.

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In Division One B, Sligo and Fermanagh are two points behind leaders Derry but Fermanagh have to travel to play Derry whereas Sligo, with a better average, go to Clare. Meath could either qualify for the semi-finals or go down depending on their match with Kildare.

Four counties - Mayo, Kildare, Clare and Down - are all on four points with only .138 of a scoring average separating them.

In One A, Armagh are already relegated and will be joined by Cork, Tyrone or Donegal. Cork are in greatest danger, two points adrift of the third-last team and with an inferior average.

Offaly and Laois are already promoted with Louth likely to join them and a lottery between Longford, Wexford, Monaghan and Cavan to decide the final spot.