Jack O'Connor's new Kerry project built with sturdier walls

If history is to repeat itself then Kerry could win their 38th All-Ireland title on Sunday.

In Jack O'Connor's first coming as manager 2004, Tyrone were the reigning Sam Maguire holders, but the Kingdom proved too good for all en-route to winning back the famous trophy. A ravenous Red Hand roared back in 2005, edging out their Munster rivals in the final.

With Tyrone failing to advance beyond the qualifiers in '06, Kerry found such a route to their liking and were champions again come September. Jack's second term began as Mickey Harte and co were again savouring another All-Ireland triumph in 2008, but Kerry's name was back on the roll of honour list in '09.

Back for a third time in charge of Kerry and Jack O'Connor is well aware of the "challenge" that lies ahead, while county chairman Tim Murphy stands over the integrity of the process that led to O'Connor's return @Kerry_Official #rtegaa @PaschalSheehy pic.twitter.com/2HpLQeYK25

And then in September of last year, Tyrone players were again on the steps of the Hogan Stand receiving Sam. A few weeks later, Jack was back for a stint at the helm. With the green and gold through to another final on Sunday next, will it be a case of the county again following Tyrone?

The other common denominator is Kerry winning a league title in year one of O'Connor's terms. That sequence was continued when Mayo were put to the sword last April. Sequences, however, are there to be broken. Galway are most likely to prove stiffer opposition to what Mayo and Cork offered up on the days when O'Connor last delivered All-Irelands. The 2022 finale will see two traditional footballing teams locking horns. A clash that would delight purists looking down from above.

O'Connor, while having been an