The tension and drama of a close finish compensated somewhat for the shortcomings in footballing terms. Both teams wasted a plethora of chances, struggling to cope with the demands of accuracy in a strong breeze. Davy Dalton had a superb game for the Lilywhites with the exception of a single error which gifted Vinnie Murphy a point.

The arrival of Jim Stynes for a labouring Paul Bealin galvanised the Dublin midfield and allowed them a foothold in a battle which Martin Lynch had dominated. Kildare led 0-6 to nil and by half-time 0-8 to 0-3. Charlie Redmond was once again a pivotal figure for Dublin, kicking eight points, two from play.

It was the Erin's Isle man who rescued his team, fielding an excellent pass from substitute Johnny Barr and popping it over the bar for the equalising score.

Dublin: J O'Leary; C Walsh, D Deasy, P Moran; P Curran, K Barr, M Deegan; J Sheedy (0-1), P Bealin; P Gilroy, T Carr, V Murphy (0-1); N Guiden, D Farrell (0-1), C Redmond (0-8, five frees, one 45). Subs: J Stynes for Bealin (19 mins); J Barr for Carr (65 mins); P O'Neill for Walsh (65 mins).

Kildare: C Byrne; S Dowling, D Dalton, A Rainbow; B Fahy, G Ryan, N Donlon (0-1); S McGovern, M Lynch (0-1); G Dunne (0-4), D McConnell (0-2), N Buckley (0- 2, two frees); D Kerrigan, D McKevitt, J McDonald. Subs: K Doyle (0-1) for McDonald 22 mins.

Referee: P Russell (Tipperary).