First draw produces a capital result for Dublin

Gaelic Games/Qualifier Draw: If there is any consolation to the broken dreams of provincial success then it has be playing London in the All-Ireland Qualifiers series. That was Dublin's fate after yesterday's defeat to Westmeath in the Leinster football quarter-final, their meeting with London one of the eight round one qualifiers scheduled to take place next weekend.

The draw made in Croke Park yesterday evening produced the usual variety of attractions. Having lost to Galway by 8-14 to 0-8, London were always viewed as the softest draw, but on the flip side Dublin won't learn a whole lot more about themselves heading into the more testing waters of round two. As surprising as yesterday's defeat was, losing to London is simply unimaginable.

Topping the bill in terms of attraction is the meeting of Kildare and Offaly, the former victims of a similar Leinster coup yesterday designed by weaker rivals Wexford. As the first county out of the bowl, however, Kildare will have the right to home advantage and that game appears destined for Newbridge.

The Games Administration Committee will later today release details of all eight dates and venues. It is possible that the Dublin-London will be played on Sunday week as part of a double bill with another qualifier - but London are obliged to travel.

Featuring the 16 teams that had failed to reach their respective provincial semi-finals, the draw did at least produce a near total geographical mix. Kildare v Offaly is the only one within a provincial boundary.The evolution of championship football continues.

Monaghan V Longford

Clare V Sligo

Kildare V Offaly

Down V Carlow

Wicklow V Derry

Louth V Antrim

Dublin V London

Tipperary V Fermanagh