Paul Geaney Expresses Concern About Coach’s Impact on Team’s Success
At one point in 2018, Paul Geaney was close to retiring from football, but now in his mid-30s, he’s playing some of his best football thanks to the FRC-inspired changes. Paul Geaney expresses concern about coach’s impact on team’s success, fearing that strategic minds might eventually ruin the current attacking style the new rules have fostered. Despite Kerry’s recent stumble in Tullamore, Geaney’s 2025 season has been impressive. Before his injury against Cork, he had already notched 2-10 in championship play, adding to the 4-17 he delivered during Kerry’s rollercoaster league campaign.
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Career Revival After a Low Point
Geaney revealed he lost motivation around 2018-19 when Kerry’s Super 8s journey faltered. He admitted that his lack of energy and focus affected both his county and club performances. Though Kerry beat Kildare in their final Super 8s match, they still exited the competition due to Monaghan’s win over Galway. That offseason, Geaney seriously considered quitting. However, he chose to stay on, gradually finding his rhythm again and playing a crucial role in Kerry’s 2022 All-Ireland win, their first in eight years.
New Style, New Life
Now thriving under the revamped game, Geaney finds playing corner-forward enjoyable once more. He appreciates the balance between being a playmaker and a goal threat. Yet, he worries that a tactical mastermind might soon find a way to stifle this progress and shift the game back into a defensive grind. He recalled how he had adapted from being a pure forward to a linking “false nine” role, focusing more on limiting defenders than scoring. But with the new rules, he’s able to combine both responsibilities.
Teams Like Meath Benefiting from the Rule Changes
Geaney pointed to Meath’s transformation as proof of the FRC’s positive effect. Once ultra-defensive, they now play free-flowing football. He sees more balance across teams, with formerly weaker counties becoming genuine contenders. The unpredictability of matches and the momentum shifts, driven by the new two-point rules, have made games more exciting and competitive.
Looking Ahead Despite Setbacks
Although missing only his second championship game in his career due to a head injury, Geaney is hopeful to return soon. He initially feared the worst but scans revealed less severe damage. If Kerry get past Cavan, he should be available again. Despite questions about time, family, and work commitments, Geaney is determined to continue playing as long as his body allows.
