 2001 was the first year of the qualifier series meaning for the first time there was a quarter final stage, where Kerry met Dublin.In a first meeting for the sides since the golden days of the 1970s and 80s, the two sides played out a 1-14 easch draw in Thurles.A week later the two teams were back in Thurles and after another exciting game Kerry ran out winners on a 2-12 to 1-12 scoreline.