Draw made last night.
Two local derbies in the corner of LAois. Ballylinan v Killeen and Kilcruise v Graiguecullen.
2015 Laois Football Championship Draws:
Laois Shopping Centre Senior Football Championship
Round One (Weekend August 7th)
Mountmellick v Portarlington
Emo v The Heath
Ballylinan v Arles Killeen
Ballyfin v St Josephs
Crettyard v Ballyroan Abbey
Killeshin v O'Dempsey's
Portlaoise v Stradbally
Arles Kilcruise v Graiguecullen.
Laois Shopping Centre Intermediate Football Championship
Starts Friday July 31st
Group A - Clonaslee St Manmans: Courtwood; Graigueculen; Annanough; Kilcavan;
Group B - Portlaoise; The Rock; Timahoe; Spink.
Laois Shopping Centre Junior Football Championship
Round One (17th and 24th of July)
Slieve Bloom Castletown v Park Ratheniska
Mountmellick v Portarlington
O'Dempsey's v The Heath
Rosenallis v Stradbally
Portlaoise v Barrowhouse
Graiguecullen v St Josephs
Ballyroan Abbey v The Rock
Ballylinan v The Harps.
Laois Shopping Centre Junior "B"Football Championship
Round One (July 16th and 17th)
Arles Killeen v Rathdowney, Winners v Portlaoise
Crettyard v St Fintans, Winners v Arles Kilcruise
Emo v Killeshin
Timahoe v Camross
Laois Shopping Centre Junior "C"Football Championship
Round One
Timahoe v Ballyfin, Winners v Spink
Borris in Ossory v O'Dempsey's
Clonaslee St Manmans v Kilcotton
Clough Ballacolla v Errill, Winners v Park Ratheniska
Annanough v Rosenallis
Courtwood v Ballyroan Abbey
Laois Shopping Centre Under 21 Football Championship Qualifier
Qualifers
O'Dempsey's v Slieve Bloom Castletown
Rosenallis v The Heath
Laois Shopping Centre Under 21 Football Championship
Round One
Sarsfields v Ballyroan Abbey, Winners v Portlaoise
Stradbally Parish Gaels v Graiguecullen, Winners Ballylinan Gleanmor
Killeshin Crettyard v Portarlington, Winners v St Josephs Barrowhouse
Courtwood Emo The Rock v Qualifier Winner.
Laois Shopping Centre Minor Football Championship
Portlaoise v Graiguecullen, Winners v Sarsfields
St Josephs Barrowhouse v Ballylinan Gleanmor, Winners v Killeshin Crettyard
Emo Courtwood The Rock v Stradbally Parish Gaels
Portarlington v Ballyroan Abbey Gaels.
Laois Shopping Centre Minor "B" Football Championship
Rosenallis v Park Ratheniska, Winners v Harps Gaels
Camross v Slieve Bloom Castletown
O'Dempseys v The Heath.
Emo v The Heath should be an interesting game.
Agree with Hesh regarding Emo and The Heath. They are two teams who probably reckon they could have a good championship run this year.
A relatively even senior draw with most teams probably fancying their chances against the opposition. Perhaps the most interesting tie will be Crettyard v Ballyroan-Abbey, two teams who most would tip for a relegation dogfight.
Looking at the draws further down the grades the Junior A match between Park/Rath and Castletown S/B stands out. CSB were impressive last year and have some nice players. While Park/Rath have probably underachieved recently and would expect a quick return to Intermediate. An interesting match between two dual clubs.
Crettyard and Ballyroan will be happy with this draw....Ballyfin and Stradbally not so!
Interesting draw, a lot of games there are very hard to call. A win for any team in those ties wouldn't be deemed a major upset, besides Stradbally and Ballyfin perhaps. The rest are quite open!
Whats the story with relegation this year?
Quote from: smcder on March 07, 2015, 04:34:56 PM
Whats the story with relegation this year?
Only one team down this year I think, 16 in JuniorA, 8 Intermediate, 16 Senior..
Quote from: TomBoy on March 06, 2015, 05:12:14 PM
Looking at the draws further down the grades the Junior A match between Park/Rath and Castletown S/B stands out. CSB were impressive last year and have some nice players. While Park/Rath have probably underachieved recently and would expect a quick return to Intermediate. An interesting match between two dual clubs.
I fancy Park Ratheniska to win that game handy enough. Not sure the appetite for another year of football is in CSB!
I'd be with hesh on that score...How will the break up of the hurling partnership effect the football...
I don't think the Castletown lads will have much interest!
Emo and the Heath will be a good game...
Timahoe must be happy with the Intermediate Draw...I predict a them v clonaslee in the final!
Good draw for Portlaoise, to have a quality rival in the first round will definitely get Portlaoise going .I expect Stradbally to be very good this year. All we need is a manager now.....
Quote from: smcder on March 07, 2015, 04:34:56 PM
Whats the story with relegation this year?
depends who's in it........
Portlaoise finally have a manager from what I hear, Malachy McNulty will be in charge.
Nice guy Mal. Hope he's not too nice to be the boss!
Mal is a nice guy I hear he has brought Tommy Mulligan in with him...
Just over 3 weeks for this to start.
Last round of league games this weekend. Portlaoise could struggle to make semi final spot but probably won't be too worried.They have Stradbally in the league this weekend but I would say both teams have an eye on the first round of the championship.
Good league fro both Port and The Heath so there should be confidence going into the first round games.
League will have very little bearing on the championship...Looking at Portlaoise Squad and what is to come back...Hard to see them been beaten !
Anyone know if Cahillane is only concentrating on soccer this year? He's after signing for Wexford Youths in the League of Ireland so will he be available for championship? A huge loss to the Town if he is, electric pace and a good eye for the posts.
I'm sure Cahillane will be playing senior championship for Portlaoise, I would be shocked if he didn't. I think the gap between Portlaoise and the rest of the senior teams may be narrowing but I cannot see them being troubled this year. Their teams in league games look to have been a good bit weaker than a potential championship team but they still performed well. They will hope to have a good few of the big guns back for the Strad game.
O'Dempseys, Port and Killeen are probably the most likely to trouble them but every dog has it's day so you never know! Let's just hope we get a competitive championship with some entertaining games!
Quote from: Uisce on July 14, 2015, 02:28:44 PM
I'm sure Cahillane will be playing senior championship for Portlaoise, I would be shocked if he didn't. I think the gap between Portlaoise and the rest of the senior teams may be narrowing but I cannot see them being troubled this year. Their teams in league games look to have been a good bit weaker than a potential championship team but they still performed well. They will hope to have a good few of the big guns back for the Strad game.
O'Dempseys, Port and Killeen are probably the most likely to trouble them but every dog has it's day so you never know! Let's just hope we get a competitive championship with some entertaining games!
Good post Yeah I hope for a few good games this year county players seem to be setting the last few league games alight so it bodes well this year...I hope we can get management in place to look at players who might just make a difference next year!
It could be a good Championship - there are a number of clubs who have stepped up in the last year. O Dempseys on their day will take a bit of beating. Killeen will also be a threat to Portlaoise and the Heath are going to trouble teams too.
The big disappointment are Graiguecullen who seem to be going backwards fast. They can never sustain an effort whatever it is with them. Not going well at all. A pity.
Graigue made a huge mistake letting Joe Higgins move to Kileen..what were they thinking. I now hear their present manager is gone although it may only be a rumour... Kileshin also let their manager go last week.....
Quote from: The Monument Road on July 18, 2015, 09:21:01 AM
Graigue made a huge mistake letting Joe Higgins move to Kileen..what were they thinking. I now hear their present manager is gone although it may only be a rumour... Kileshin also let their manager go last week.....
I don't think it's fair to say it was graigues mistake, Killeen probably looking that €€bit€€ more appealing as a football challenge to him.
Quote from: Cruella De Vil on July 18, 2015, 02:51:55 PM
Quote from: The Monument Road on July 18, 2015, 09:21:01 AM
Graigue made a huge mistake letting Joe Higgins move to Kileen..what were they thinking. I now hear their present manager is gone although it may only be a rumour... Kileshin also let their manager go last week.....
I don't think it's fair to say it was graigues mistake, Killeen probably looking that €€bit€€ more appealing as a football challenge to him.
I like the way you put that De vil....the dollars will overcome any challange and may he get as much as he can..and as long as he is happy to be associated with an ailing squad that will disintegrate overnight IMO
Quote from: The Monument Road on July 18, 2015, 03:34:17 PM
Quote from: Cruella De Vil on July 18, 2015, 02:51:55 PM
Quote from: The Monument Road on July 18, 2015, 09:21:01 AM
Graigue made a huge mistake letting Joe Higgins move to Kileen..what were they thinking. I now hear their present manager is gone although it may only be a rumour... Kileshin also let their manager go last week.....
I don't think it's fair to say it was graigues mistake, Killeen probably looking that €€bit€€ more appealing as a football challenge to him.
I like the way you put that De vil....the dollars will overcome any challange and may he get as much as he can..and as long as he is happy to be associated with an ailing squad that will disintegrate overnight IMO
Why would he not want to manage the top challenger to portlaoise best move for him on what will be a long career in managing . Joseph's will be back lads don't be so bitter ye had it good for 30 years can we not have some success .
Quote from: Gmac on July 18, 2015, 03:57:04 PM
Quote from: The Monument Road on July 18, 2015, 03:34:17 PM
Quote from: Cruella De Vil on July 18, 2015, 02:51:55 PM
Quote from: The Monument Road on July 18, 2015, 09:21:01 AM
Graigue made a huge mistake letting Joe Higgins move to Kileen..what were they thinking. I now hear their present manager is gone although it may only be a rumour... Kileshin also let their manager go last week.....
I don't think it's fair to say it was graigues mistake, Killeen probably looking that €€bit€€ more appealing as a football challenge to him.
I like the way you put that De vil....the dollars will overcome any challange and may he get as much as he can..and as long as he is happy to be associated with an ailing squad that will disintegrate overnight IMO
Why would he not want to manage the top challenger to portlaoise best move for him on what will be a long career in managing . Joseph's will be back lads don't be so bitter ye had it good for 30 years can we not have some success .
Why would anyone be bitter when their's nothing to be bitter about. The only issue on most peoples mind is the way business is done on the playing field and that opinion is reasonably widespread within the county. Most clubs have cycles of supremicy and everyone will get their chance to challange Portlaoise at some stage.Arles were in the same boat as kileen just a couple of years ago and their time passed as will Kileens.i noticed you used the word "Ye" Gmac in your asumption but your asumption is way out.
Senior football Kicks off this weekend. Here are my humble predictions
Mountmellick v Portarlington Cant see MM troubling Port. by 6
Emo v The Heath. Local derby. The Heath got beat by a limited kileen team last thursday so ill go with Emo. by 4
Ballylinan v Killeen. Kileen are on a roll this past few years so its hard to look beyind them although if you believe the rumours 8) they have a few injuries to contend with and they are limited beyond the first 15. Ballylinan are very young and inexperienced Kileen by 10
Ballyfin v St Josephs. This will be close. Josephs are poor and have very few quality players. They may get over Ballyfin but it will be close. A draw is on the cards here. Draw
Crettyard v Ballyroan Abbey. Another hard one to call Both are even enough player wise so another draw here. Draw
Killeshin v O'Dempsey's. ODs are strong and should have enough. Kileshin lost a manager recently and rumors have it they have small number at training. ODS by 7
Portlaoise v Stradbally.Only one winner here. Portlaoise by 12
Arles v Graiguecullen. Another close one here. Graigue have lost a few players this year so ill go with Arles who are hugley committed and have some experienced quality players and a super manager in Glen Ryan. Arles by 4
Quote from: The Monument Road on August 03, 2015, 05:26:13 PM
Senior football Kicks off this weekend. Here are my humble predictions
Mountmellick v Portarlington Cant see MM troubling Port. by 6
Emo v The Heath. Local derby. The Heath got beat by a limited kileen team last thursday so ill go with Emo. by 4
Ballylinan v Killeen. Kileen are on a roll this past few years so its hard to look beyind them although if you believe the rumours 8) they have a few injuries to contend with and they are limited beyond the first 15. Ballylinan are very young and inexperienced Kileen by 10
Ballyfin v St Josephs. This will be close. Josephs are poor and have very few quality players. They may get over Ballyfin but it will be close. A draw is on the cards here. Draw
Crettyard v Ballyroan Abbey. Another hard one to call Both are even enough player wise so another draw here. Draw
Killeshin v O'Dempsey's. ODs are strong and should have enough. Kileshin lost a manager recently and rumors have it they have small number at training. ODS by 7
Portlaoise v Stradbally.Only one winner here. Portlaoise by 12
Arles v Graiguecullen. Another close one here. Graigue have lost a few players this year so ill go with Arles who are hugley committed and have some experienced quality players and a super manager in Glen Ryan. Arles by 4
Mountmellick v Portarlington Have to agree, Port to have enough and win pulling up. Port by 5
Emo v The Heath The Heath surely have enough to beat Emo. Kane to be the difference.
Ballylinan v Killeen Killeen to win this local derby and send out a message to the County. If Walsh is held up reasonally well, they will struggle to find scores else where. Killeen by 10
Ballyfin v St. Josephs Not to be a dream start for Ballyfin at senior. The saints by 7.
Cretty v BallyroanAbbey Cretty to edge this dogfight by a score. Have a lot more experience of senior championship over a young Ballyroan Abbey side.
Killeshin v O'Dempseys Mick Moore and O'Dempseys to add to Killeshin's miserable year so far. Rumour of a lot of J1ers away over on the carlow border? OD by 7
Portlaoise v Stradbally Strad have the unenviable challenge of meeting The Town. Best time to meet them is early on but can't see any shocks here. Stradbally to try keep the score down, Portlaoise by 10.
Arles v Graigue I think this game depends on how Ross plays. If he plays well then Arles by 4 but going by his lack of confidence in the Laois jersey I can see a Graigue win and kicking points from everywhere, typical town team ;)
Mountmellick v Portarlington On league form it should be Port but Mountmellick have some good young lads. Port by 2
Emo v The Heath Think Costello is not playing for Emo. No Sheehan either. The Heath by 3.
Ballylinan v Killeen Killeen at a canter. Ballylinan could struggle to stay up.
Ballyfin v St. Josephs Josephs are no great shakes but their senior experience should see them through.
Crettyard v Ballyroan Abbey Tierney and McMahon should swing it in favour of Ballyroan.
Killeshin v O'Dempseys Should be O'D's but they have a worrying habit of losing big games. Still should win this by 5 or 6.
Portlaoise v Stradbally The Town rumoured to be not going as well as other years. Got a good draw in Stradbally though because without Shiel they have very little forward threat. Portlaoise by 6-7.
Arles v Graigue No idea how Graigue are going. This could be close. A draw maybe?
Mountmellick v Portarlington - Could be close enough, but reckon Port will have enough to win.
Emo v The Heath - The Heath to win this comfortably, look to me motoring well.
Ballylinan v Killeen - Can't see anything but a Kileen win here.
Ballyfin v St. Josephs - Joseph's to have too much for Ballyfin.
Crettyard v Ballyroan Abbey - Will be tight but reckon B/Abbey will come out on top.
Killeshin v O'Dempseys - O'Dempsey's will be sore after losing to Timahoe in the Division2 final but will surely pick up a win here.
Portlaoise v Stradbally - Portlaoise, can't foresee a shock.
Arles v Graigue - Probably be the toughest to call, unknown quantity in relation to both these teams. Graigue to sneak it.
Draw - Hard one to call. Portarlington have had a very good league but Mountmellick have been impressive enough in championship the last couple of years. Some decent young players on both sides. The only draw of the round.
The Heath - Based on their league form The Heath should come out on the right side here.
Ballylinan - Will be a fiery contest with plenty of cards shown. If the Kingstons click Killeen will have too much for Ballylinan however the same could be said for Gary Walsh who can be unmarkable on his day. Game could swing on what goes on off the ball as much as with ball in hand. If Ballylinan are up for it I'll give them the nod to cause a shock. There's always one shock result.
St. Josephs - Should be too strong for Ballyfin.
Crettyard - Ideal start for Crettyard. One win and they are safe from relegation. They would hope to do it first time of asking this year but there wouldn't be much between them.
O'Dempseys - O'Dempsey's going well at the moment albeit in Div 2. They have the quality in their squad to trouble any other team in the championship so should start with a win.
Portlaoise - Won't be caught by Stradbally this weekend. The only time to ambush Portaloise is in the QF when the back door has been closed.
Arles - Arles have had the upper hand over Graigue these past few years when Graigue were some peoples favourites to challenge Portlaoise. They have flattered to deceive. Arles should get the win.
Quote from: SCFC on August 03, 2015, 06:31:15 PM
Mountmellick v Portarlington On league form it should be Port but Mountmellick have some good young lads. Port by 2
Emo v The Heath Think Costello is not playing for Emo. No Sheehan either. The Heath by 3.
Ballylinan v Killeen Killeen at a canter. Ballylinan could struggle to stay up.
Ballyfin v St. Josephs Josephs are no great shakes but their senior experience should see them through.
Crettyard v Ballyroan Abbey Tierney and McMahon should swing it in favour of Ballyroan.
Killeshin v O'Dempseys Should be O'D's but they have a worrying habit of losing big games. Still should win this by 5 or 6.
Portlaoise v Stradbally The Town rumoured to be not going as well as other years. Got a good draw in Stradbally though because without Shiel they have very little forward threat. Portlaoise by 6-7.
Arles v Graigue No idea how Graigue are going. This could be close. A draw maybe?
Port by 5
Heath by 8
Killeen by 12
Josephs by 2
Draw
O Dempseys by 10
Graigue by 4. Barry Brennan back.
MM v Portarlington ----------- Portarlington
Emo v The Heath.------------- The Heath
Ballylinan v Killeen------------ Killeen
Ballyfin v St. Josephs--------- St. Josephs
Crettyard v Ballyroan--------- Crettyard
Killeshin v O'Dempseys--------O'Dempseys
Portlaoise v Stradbally---------Portlaoise
Arles v Graiguecullen----------Graiguecullen
MM v Portarlington - Great league campaign for Port, will have to much for MM. Port by 7.
Emo v The Heath - Great things happening in The Heath with a few good young lads. Heath by 3/4.
Ballylinan v Killeen - I hear there are a few injury worries for Kileen. If Ballylinan click, we could see a shock. Bally by 1.
Ballyfin v St. Josephs - Joseph's are nothing special, fancy them for relegation. Ballyfin by 5.
Crettyard v Ballyroan - A close one here, could go either way. I'll say a draw.
Killeshin v O'Dempseys - Another tight one, but I don't think Killeshin have the fire power up front. O'Dempseys by 2.
Portlaoise v Stradbally - Fancy Portlaoise to pull away in the end, but they wont have it as easy as previous years. Portlaoise by 6.
Arles v Graiguecullen - Arles have plenty of experience, but not much coming through. Graigue have plenty of good young lads. I'll say a draw.
Mountmellick v Portarlington - Port have all the momentum behind them but its worth remembering that Mountmellick won this fixture last year. Mountmellick by 1
Emo v The Heath.- Emo without Costello will struggle for scores, The Heath with or without Daithi Carroll should have enough. The Heath by 4
Ballylinan v Killeen- Killeen missing a few including shane julian, should out shoot Ballylinan here. Killeen by 5
Ballyfin v St. Josephs- Josephs will be out to prove a point and if Ballyfin weather the early storm they could cause a shock. Goals win games and Ballyfin are capable of getting them. Ballyfin by 2
Crettyard v Ballyroan- tough one to call. id give a tentative nod to Ballyroan but wouldnt be surprised if a replay was needed.
Killeshin v O'Dempseys- O Dempseys and Killeshin have had opposite league campaigns really and i cant see a swing in form. O Dempseys by 7
Portlaoise v Stradbally- Stradballys ever ageing forward line wont have enough to sweat the town. Portlaoise by 5
Arles v Graiguecullen- this could be the game of the first round, Meaney vs Hand and Timmons vs Munnelly/Conway are as good a dual as you may see. Graigue prob have the better panel overall. Graigue by 1
Don't think it will be Meaney v Hand, Hand has played no football this year and has just come back on to the panel. You could see Barry Brennan in at midfield as he has transferred back after moving to Wexford due to work commitments.
MM v Portarlington ----------- Portarlington by 3/4
Emo v The Heath.------------- The Heath with a few to spare
Ballylinan v Killeen------------ Killeen by 8 +
Ballyfin v St. Josephs--------- St. Josephs by 10+
Crettyard v Ballyroan--------- Crettyard to edge it
Killeshin v O'Dempseys--------O'Dempseys with some to spare
Portlaoise v Stradbally---------Portlaoise by 6 +
Arles v Graiguecullen----------Arles to egde it
The heath, crettyard & arles to win is just a little under 9/1 with powers.
Port
The Heath
Killeen
Kilcruise
Portlaoise
O Dempsey
Ballyfin
Ballyroanabbey
MM v Portarlington ----------- draw 1-9 a piece
Emo v The Heath.------------- The Heath by 2-13 to 0-12
Ballylinan v Killeen------------ Killeen on a score of 1-10 to 0-6
Ballyfin v St. Josephs--------- St. Josephs by 2-15 to 2-8
Crettyard v Ballyroan--------- Ballyroan 1-11 to 0-9
Killeshin v O'Dempseys--------O'Dempseys score 2-14 to 0-9
Portlaoise v Stradbally---------Portlaoise easy 3-14 to 1-7
Arles v Graiguecullen----------Arles by a point 0-11 to 0-10
Killeen v Ballylinan tonight. Could be closer than the bookies think. The Farrells and Walsh will give Ballylinan a chance as will the local derby factor. Killeen should win though.
Killeen 1-14 Ballylinan 0-11
Decent game. Killeen always in control but given a good run for it by a very young Ballylinan team.
Donie K was excellent, scored around 1-8, mostly from play too. And he was carrying an injury!
Alan Farrell and Baler Kealy tried hard for Ballylinan in midfield but Gary Walsh never got going. Ballylinan could well stay up with one good performance.
Killeen were missing Enright and Shane Julian just played a few minutes near the end.
Game passed off very peacefully too.
Mountmellick v Port
Think Port will win this. Mountmellick without Darren Fitz, Eoghan Keogh, Eoin George as far as I know. Port have Barry Mitchell back, he's a good forward. Port by 5.
Arles v Graigue
Should be Graigue. Arles are without the Stynes brothers, Stephen Miller and Mick O'Shea this year. Glen Ryan will have them up for it no doubt but surely the pick of players Graigue have even without Chris Hurley and Ian Fleming will tell. Graigue by 3 or 4.
Emo v The Heath
Could be very close. I hear Costello will play for Emo which will be massive boost to them. I'm going to sit on the fence and call a draw!
Portlaoise v Stradbally.
Portlaoise are without Adrian Kelly, Brian Glynn, Stuart Nerney and Paul Cotter from last year's county final team. They have plenty of lads itching for a chance though and should have enough to beat Stradbally who will miss Shiel a lot. Portlaoise by 5.
Ballyfin v Joseph's
Joe's won't have two or three of the Campions. This could be closer than some people think. Ballyfin will be full strength. Joes by 2.
Crettyard v Ballyroan Abbey.
Hard to call. Ballyroan seem to have some good young lads to go with Tierney, McMahon and Marty Scully so I'll say they'll edge it by 3.
Killeshin v O'Dempsey's
On all known form O'Dempsey's should win this but losing to Timahoe in the Division 2 final wasn't a great sign. Still, they should take Killeshin who had a bad league. O'Dempsey's by 5.
Fair play Hesh, you seem to be well informed regarding various players availability etc. Eoin George would be a big loss to MM. Are most of these casulties because of injury or being out of the country. I know the story with the Arles lads!
Decent game last night, Arles system really nullified Ballylinan scoring threat well. Joe Mulhare gave a very disciplined performance in taking Gary Walsh out of the game. Nice too see Donie play on the edge of the square, Ballylinan tried in vein to double mark him to little success. From Ballylinans point of view i wouldnt be too concerned. some good young players and looking forward i think they will be safe.
Hesh thats a big loss for mountmellick, they aren't picking from a big pool as it is. i heard training numbers are poor. Port will be without Jason Moore who is apparently on holiday.
Midfield could be a weakness for Portlaoise so looking at the players missing.
Ballyfin wont be at full strength, from what i have heard they are missing at least 2 if not 3 of the starting 6 backs from last years intermediate win
Kileen won pulling up with a defensive system that is honed to the last. Something very noticable last night was their short kick out system which worked brilliantly for them. it reqires a lot of effort which was in abundance with them. When Ballylinan kicked it long from their kick outs kileen were cleaned at midfield through the Great efforts of Jamie Farrell and the evergreen John(Bailer) Kealey. Donie K was untouchable last night and kicked marvelous scores although he looked like he was working on one leg. In saying that Ballylinan missed 3 goal chances one of which was a sitter from Gary Walsh. He had a poor game last night. Ballylinan are very young and this showed against a seasoned mature Kileen team. it will be interesting when stronger teams play them man to man as they are very limited in the midfield area due to the seemingly long term absence of Enright who is out with a fractured cheek.
We have a coupon buster
Aye. Should've put money on it. 8)
For Some BallyroanAbu :D
Draw between Arles and Graigue. 8 apiece. Graigue were 5-1 up at half time.
Stradbally are up by one point at HT, having played against the wind. Portlaoise kicked eight wides.
Mountmellick best of the weekend sofar
Just saying here I think Ballyfin are a bet at 7/2 to beat Josephs it's much more like 50/50
Joseph's beat Ballyfin 1.9 to 7 points. They wont need the rulebook this year to keep them up senior so!
fair brawl near the end of this poor enough game joes strolled through it for the most of it. 4 sent off.
Some unlikely results over the weekend. MM beating Port and Killeshin beating O'Dempseys.
Arles rescued the draw and should they win the replay it's a game against their nearest neighbours and rivals. A loss and it's O'Dempseys which would be a tough one. They will need to beat Graigue or they could be dragged into a relegation battle.
Big wins for Portlaoise and The Heath with Ballyroan and Josephs safe from relegation this year.
Doubt the Heath and Portlaoise were ever worrying about relegation.
It was Ballyroan and Josephs I was referring to regarding relegation.
What we have been building towards county final all year. Relegation ??? What sort of stuff you on 👌🏻. Last team to win county before Portlaoise. Before I run away with myself we have a nice young team who will come on a lot from yesterday. I am sure we will give the Heath a good test.
No doubt Ballyroan will be stronger than what Emo came with: they were quite poor on Saturday. The Heath only in second gear at best, plenty more football in them. Some win for Killeshin also!
Can't understand How Seamus Mulhare is a senior referee after only starting two years ago...I've seen him twice this year before yesterday and he has been out of his dept in big games..
Yesterday was no exception I had my doubts going in and like many was proved right.He lost total control of the game and in the brawl to pick out the players he did was remarkable.
I thought like the Port and Heath man sitting beside me he was extremely harsh on Ballyfin for the 60 minutes and this lead to him loosing total control of the game.
I hear he jumped a few ranks due to been proposed by his own Club man at a meeting at the start of the year.
Its a pity for him and the games he will ref because clearly he needs more experience to be able to ref at this level.
Arles v Graigue replay fixed for O'Moore PArk on Thursday evening.
Agree with statement on seamus mulhare to say he let the brawl spiral out of control is an under statement, the brawl was coming a mile away. Not jumping on a dishing of seamus mulhare bandwagon, who i think has potential but has been through into senior too early. But as far as i know seamus plays midfield for the heaths junior a team & is referring in junior a championship. Is there not a conflict of interests here??
Mulhare is miles off the standard you expect for the top tier. Not really his fault in my view. the referee panel or county board, whoever appoints the referee's to games is responsible. He has no experience and i think St josephs and Ballyfin deserved better. if a referee was going to be given a shot at the senior I think Clifford Ward deserves a go, Never much fuss when he refs a game from what i have seen. The frustration in that josephs/Ballyfin game was always building.
A row on the field is one think but the substitutes should be punished severely for getting involved.
Quote from: Hospital Pass on August 10, 2015, 07:39:36 PM
Mulhare is miles off the standard you expect for the top tier. Not really his fault in my view. the referee panel or county board, whoever appoints the referee's to games is responsible. He has no experience and i think St josephs and Ballyfin deserved better. if a referee was going to be given a shot at the senior I think Clifford Ward deserves a go, Never much fuss when he refs a game from what i have seen. The frustration in that josephs/Ballyfin game was always building.
A row on the field is one think but the substitutes should be punished severely for getting involved.
Good post yes the subs should be punished...It was a pity as a previous poster said you could see this row coming its not like there is any bitterness between the clubs the players wouldn't even know each other all the tension was cause by what I thought poor a very poor ref on the day.Joe Brennan on the line didn't help him as much as he could have in the row either.
I feel sorry for Mulhare as he jumped a few ranks through no fault of his own to ref at this level and was clearly not up to the task.As Hospital pass said Ballyfin and Joes deserved better and it was a pity for Ballyfin in the first game ever as senior that the game decended into such a farce.
Joe's were the better team on the day and will be relieved to be up in the senior ranks again.
Ballyfin will struggle with out very important players the next day in what will be a battle against Crettyard.
Some shocks over the weekend. Most notably, Mountmellick beating Port and Killeshin beating O'Dempseys.. Serious wins for those teams.
Strad obviously had Portlaoise slightly rattled but they really seemed to turn it on in the second half, holding Strad to a point. The Heath looked good and should go far this year.
Big talking point was probably the row in the Josephs/Ballyfin game. I was at the game and although it looked very bad there didn't seem to be any serious injuries after it bar one of Josephs guys. Not sure who. It will be interesting to see what action is taken on this though.
As a previous poster said Ballyfin lost some big players and could potentially lose more so it's hard to see them troubling anyone else in the senior ranks now which is unfortunate for them. Agree that the referee was poor in the game. A thankless job but he didn't seem to have control of the game at all.
Potential Arles derby in the next round sounds good but think it'll be a Killeen/Town final, with Portlaoise to sneak it! Not a mindblowing prediction ;)
People arae a bit hard on Seamus Mulhare. Players have a responsibility and if they misbehave they have to be dealt with. I hope the culprits are suspended longterm. The only blot on Mulhare was that the row could have been avoided if he had dealt with the Ballyfin player for the tackle on the josephs sub Kelly and which led to the row. He actually sent him off on a straight red a few minutes later for a similar dangerous tackle. Players coming from the stand should get a longer suspension. As for the game it was bordering on intermediate standard and josephs have a long road ahead of they are to survive.
Best game of the weekend was the Port/MM game. Great game with great scores. Coss 7 Mullen were. exceptional
Next best although onesided was Heath/Emo. the heath looked a very settled and well trained team. their movement was great to watch.
Portlaoise / Stradbally. Only one team in it when Portlaoise decided to play.
Arles/Graigue. poor enough although i was very impressed with kevin meaney. He was head and shoulders above everyone else. Ross is still suffering from his summer woes with Laois. Mark Timmons was Graigues best although young Reilley also showed well.
I missed the other games and have already spoken about Kileen/ballylinan
Quote from: The Monument Road on August 11, 2015, 06:25:40 PM
People arae a bit hard on Seamus Mulhare. Players have a responsibility and if they misbehave they have to be dealt with. I hope the culprits are suspended longterm. The only blot on Mulhare was that the row could have been avoided if he had dealt with the Ballyfin player for the tackle on the josephs sub Kelly and which led to the row. He actually sent him off on a straight red a few minutes later for a similar dangerous tackle. Players coming from the stand should get a longer suspension. As for the game it was bordering on intermediate standard and josephs have a long road ahead of they are to survive.
Best game of the weekend was the Port/MM game. Great game with great scores. Coss 7 Mullen were. exceptional
Next best although onesided was Heath/Emo. the heath looked a very settled and well trained team. their movement was great to watch.
Not hard on Mulhare I felt sorry for him but for him not to even ref a division 1 game all year and be thrown in at the deep end like this was madness.
He didn't have control of the game at any stage and the players picked up on this going in harder each time on the tackle.
He was harsh on Ballyfin for most of the game and this lead to them getting very frustrated near the end.In saying that he made a few poor calls on Joe's as well.
Ballyfin haven't much hope of staying up now which is a real shame they have some nice young footballers and deserved more than what could turn out to be a farce of a year in the senior ranks.
Joe's will be happy to be safe for another year but don't look to be going anywhere fast.
On a side note James Doyle is a great player to watch his movement off the ball and on it is as good as is in the county!
Portlaoise / Stradbally. Only one team in it when Portlaoise decided to play.
Arles/Graigue. poor enough although i was very impressed with kevin meaney. He was head and shoulders above everyone else. Ross is still suffering from his summer woes with Laois. Mark Timmons was Graigues best although young Reilley also showed well.
I missed the other games and have already spoken about Kileen/ballylinan
Hard to fathom a comment about people being hard on Mulhare ::) ::) He was absolutely and utterly out of his depth and was completely at fault for 5 red cards in what was over all a very poor game. He let some heavy tackles go early on which went unpunished against St Josephs and frustration grew from there. Would Mulhare have been given Arles/Graigue or Portlaoise/Stradbally over the weekend? Of course not a complete lack of respect shown to both Josephs and Ballyfin by the county board and we wonder about the standard of football in the county then
Quote from: Jimmy P on August 13, 2015, 09:29:43 AM
Hard to fathom a comment about people being hard on Mulhare ::) ::) He was absolutely and utterly out of his depth and was completely at fault for 5 red cards in what was over all a very poor game. He let some heavy tackles go early on which went unpunished against St Josephs and frustration grew from there. Would Mulhare have been given Arles/Graigue or Portlaoise/Stradbally over the weekend? Of course not a complete lack of respect shown to both Josephs and Ballyfin by the county board and we wonder about the standard of football in the county then
I'm afraid I have to agree with most of this...
Mulhare was giving this game as they thought it would be an easy on to ref that Joe's would walk all over Ballyfin with little fuss.
The chap never even got to ref a division one game this year what sense does it make?
He did referee division one games this year
Player power has reared its head in O'Dempseys! Manager Mick Moore was "sacked" by the players this week and former player Kieran Kehoe is now in charge.
People are not being hard on the ref here, he was way out of his depth and let a lot of heavy hits go early on, whilst pulling lads up for borderline picking balls off the ground and taking too many steps.
The subs running in from both side was not his fault however, nonsense behaviour, and they need to be dealt with.
The game itself was very poor, Joes should have had Ballyfin kicked out of sight by half time if they had a free taker, and they will need this sorted to have any chance going forward.
The report of the game in the leinster must have been drafted by the ref himself or some body who wasn't at the game, it's pure nonsense.
Did not see Mulhare hitting anyone or running in from sideline anyone who got involved brought a red card on themselves. This game was harmless till someone lost the rag and hit someone. Mulhare was not consistent but I have seen worse every card was deserved. Teams and players should be aware they will be punished severely for joining in. The referees performance prior to row is a separate issue.
Think we should move on from that game now! What happened, happened, and the perpetrators will be dealt with i'm sure! Significant moment in O'Dempseys if that earlier statement is true. It could go one way or the other now with a new manager coming in. Gel the players together or send them spiraling downward. Still think they have enough talent to progress far but they just don't seem up to fulfill their potential. Losing to Timahoe was an early sign that things were not going so well.
Arles 2-16 1-09 Graigue
Good win for Arles setting up a clash with their nearest and dearest.
Quote from: redsetanta on August 13, 2015, 09:19:35 PM
Arles 2-16 1-09 Graigue
Good win for Arles setting up a clash with their nearest and dearest.
Bring it on....one of these teams are quaking in their boots tonight... which one is the burning question :-X :-X :-X
Quote from: Uisce on August 13, 2015, 03:36:07 PM
Significant moment in O'Dempseys if that earlier statement is true.
Ah it's true alright, I wouldn't invent that!
Quote from: redsetanta on August 13, 2015, 09:19:35 PM
Arles 2-16 1-09 Graigue
Good win for Arles setting up a clash with their nearest and dearest.
Killeen should beat Arles but I wouldn't put a penny on it! Have they ever beaten Arles in the senior championship? I don't think they have.
Arles were a transformed team last night and should be well able for killeen. Graiguecullen lost Ambrose Doran after 5 mins due to injury and David Conway did a great impression of Tiernan McCann to get Mark Timmons sent off after 30 mins. Eamonn Stronge totally fell for it and is another ref who is out of his depth at this level.
Kilcruise I don't think they will trouble Kileen easily tie of the round. O Dempseys will beat Graiguecullen
Don't think too many would have foreseen O'Dempseys playing Graigue in the losers group at the start of the year!
Junior it must have been like chalk and cheese the two games. What was the big difference between both games? Considering Graigue were 5-1 up at half time in first game it's some turnaround.
Arles will definately trouble Killeen and will believe that they will beat them. Killeen always have trouble beating Arles whenever it really counts.
Did Conway dive? I heard he did get a box off Timmons but I wasn't there so can't comment.
So another referee is out of his depbt.....they way i see it is referees are now doing their job for the first time in a long time. If a player strikes or becomes involved he gets a red....Simple as
I also hear that players sent off at the weekend got one match suspensions. People (one player and a couple of supporters) who came in off the line got 8 weeks
Timmons and David were facing each other and just pushing each other shoulder high when David dropped to the ground as though he had been shot. Strong was two feet away watching them but did nothing till one of them dropped. If Timmons had dropped maybe David would have went except Timmons is not that type but in reality it was nothing more than the usual handbag stuff. Conway leapt to his feet as soon as Timmons was walking off and they exchanged a few words. Graigue were under pressure at the time and really couldn't afford to lose anyone as they had lost their main scoring forward and Birdy was not fit to start. A lot of their more established lads were obviously carrying injuries and they looked like a team that were not fit enough for Championship football.
It had been a good contest up to then and was even enough till Stronge penalised a Graigue player for a pickup which it obviously wasn't. Kilcruse were clever enough to niggle and drag their opponents as the rag was out in Graigue up until the sending off and then they played some great football, easily the best I have seen so far this year. If they play like that against Killeen they will beat them but they might have to get Donie Kingston sent off first which is not beyond them if we don't have a more competent ref.
Just to answer The Monument Road, I agree if any player strikes he deserves to go but any genuine supporter who saw that incident will tell you that it was nothing more than a pushing contest and that cowardly diving to get a man sent off will have to be stopped. To do that you need competent referees and manly players and Strong and Conway failed badly on that count I'm afraid.
Did Barry Brennan play?
Barry Brennan played but was a long way from the player he can be. He has played very little football recently I hear and is certainly not match fit. Showed some patches of real class but not enough. Understandable I suppose..
Graigue could be in bother now and their game against O'Dempseys will leave one of them in a relegation fight. It should be a good battle being a knock out game and in fairness you would think that both teams should be good enough to avoid relegation.
I assume Timmons will appeal his red card as he would be a big loss for Graigue the next day.
He should appeal it even if only in the name of justice. I'm sure David would speak up for him if asked as it probably was a spur of the moment thing dropping like that.
Graigue are poor this year and certainly would miss Timmons. As you say they should have enough to stay Senior but its just papering over the cracks for the moment. A root and branch review of that club is needed as there seems to be a bit of in-fighting there but I suppose most clubs have that.
It would be a shame to see them relegated as they have always been proud Laoismen under a lot of pressure and slagging from Carlow and even a small minority of clubs in Laois.
They mustn't be managing their underage properly as they have been reasonably successful in recent times. 4 or 5 years ago people were talking about Graigue challenging Portlaoise but seems a long way off at the moment.
I think Timmons should appeal and David Conway should be ashamed of himself.This kind of behaviour is getting all too common in Gaelic football recently and the county board should send out a clear signal that this behaviour will not be tolerated. Have my doubts about Eamon Strong as a referee also, as a current player (or recently retired), he should be able to tell the difference between a strike and a push and not so quick to produce red cards. He made a few baffling decisions during the game also but he wasn't the difference between Graigue winning or losing. Maybe he should be given a few junior games to sharpen him up for senior. :o :o :o
No predictions
Arles killeen vs Arles Kilcruise ... Killen by 6 or 7. Be a close low scoring game but can't see Kilcruise stopping Kingston for the full 60 especially if he's deployed on the small square.
Ballyroan vs The Heath... The heath by 4. Could be a good game, two good footballing sides but The Heath moving well this year.
MountMellick vs St. Josephs... MM by 6. Josephs struggled against ballyfin and now have Butler and Campion suspended. MM dark horses.
Portlaoise vs Killeshin... Portlaoise by 8. If Killeshin start the same way as they did last time and keep out the goals they'll have some hope. Doubt the town will be as flat this time out.
Graigue vs O'Dempseys ... O'D by 3. The standout fixture in the losers group. Could be a good game. But O'D have more guts in this make or break game.
Ballyfin vs Cretty ... Cretty by 3. Suspensions will cost Ballyfin this year as they will be sent down.
Emo vs Ballylinan ... Going for a draw in this one. Costeloe returning to fitness might be the decider in this game as Emo are short fire power.
Stradbally vs Port ... Port by 6. They'll be eager to put right the last game out. Stradbally's lack of fitness was their biggest demise against portlaoise.
Arles killeen vs Arles Kilcruise ... Killeen look to be going well. Kilcruise will be boosted by the win the last day but Killeen should have too much.
Ballyroan vs The Heath... The Heath to win this with relative ease.
MountMellick vs St. Josephs... Mountmellick. Suspensions will weaken Josephs and will be happy to just have avoided relegation.
Portlaoise vs Killeshin... Portlaoise. Town will only improve as championship moves on.
Graigue vs O'Dempseys ... Very hard to call so will go for a draw.
Ballyfin vs Cretty ... Crettyard, Ballyfin much weaker with suspensions.
Emo vs Ballylinan ... Ballylinan looked good enough the first day whereas Emo got a nice trimming. Ballylinan.
Stradbally vs Port ... Port, too strong to be facing relegation!
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 14, 2015, 04:42:39 PM
He should appeal it even if only in the name of justice. I'm sure David would speak up for him if asked as it probably was a spur of the moment thing dropping like that.
Graigue are poor this year and certainly would miss Timmons. As you say they should have enough to stay Senior but its just papering over the cracks for the moment. A root and branch review of that club is needed as there seems to be a bit of in-fighting there but I suppose most clubs have that.
It would be a shame to see them relegated as they have always been proud Laoismen under a lot of pressure and slagging from Carlow and even a small minority of clubs in Laois.
Heard he won his appeal....Even though Conway declined an invitation to speak on his behalf.
Delighted to hear that justice was done, if not on the field then in the boardroom. If that's true about David Conway then I personally am sickened with him and he has gone down a lot in my estimation.
I thought it was just a reaction on his part and that, given the chance, he would be man enough to speak out against the injustice handed out to Timmons and the Graiguecullen team. Everyone, including some honest Arles supporters around me could see that the ref was wrong and Conway had a chance to stand up and be counted but he choose not to. That's his decision and he has to stand by what he thinks but I can't see myself hoping they beat Killeen after that.
Think he has just given Killeen some ammunition to throw at him during the next game ....
I hear Killeen may not have either of the Donies for the big derby. Kinsella refereeing it, he should keep a tight rein on it.
Why no Donies? They would never miss the derby particularly Donie B.
Hesh will have a birds eye view of proceedings so!
Quote from: redsetanta on August 19, 2015, 11:28:37 PM
Why no Donies? They would never miss the derby particularly Donie B.
Hesh will have a birds eye view of proceedings so!
Judging by any comment hesh has ever made on this site or laoistalk I know who he would like to win,
Quote from: Gmac on August 20, 2015, 02:50:10 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on August 19, 2015, 11:28:37 PM
Why no Donies? They would never miss the derby particularly Donie B.
Hesh will have a birds eye view of proceedings so!
Judging by any comment hesh has ever made on this site or laoistalk I know who he would like to win,
:) True. Still, you could go to referee or linesman or umpire any game and have a "favourite" but it wouldn't stop you doing the job 100% fairly.
Sure, I've even done Kildare games!!!
If the two Donie's are out then I think Kilcruise will win it. Why are they out ??
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 20, 2015, 06:45:27 PM
If the two Donie's are out then I think Kilcruise will win it. Why are they out ??
They are out due to a new tactic devised by their management....spooking the opposition :'( :-* :-\ :-\
Port and Stradbally drew tonight in what turned out to be a exciting finish to a decent game.
Sadly, players seem to have no scruples these days about getting opposing players red carded. The Stradbally player's effort tonight to have Stuart Mulpeter sent off, while successful, was very disappointing. Twice he went out of his way to provoke Mulpeter, and when the Port player eventually reacted, the manner in which he hit the ground would put Tiernan Mccann in the ha-penny place. Simulation should be a red card offence.
Unfortunately, the manliness seems to have gone out of the game.
Very same as David Conway last week, cowardly diving trying to get players sent off. Name that player, let everyone know who is at this disgusting and cowardly behavior and that might help to cut out this stuff.
Referees are going to have to wise up to this "tactic" and start punishing the real perpetrators. If we name these guys we will build up a black list that no player will want to join.
We already have last weeks sending off overturned by appeal which proves that Conway took a dive so if this case deserves to be appealed let Port do it and out these divers for once and for all before it spreads like a virus in the county.
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 22, 2015, 12:33:37 AM
Very same as David Conway last week, cowardly diving trying to get players sent off. Name that player, let everyone know who is at this disgusting and cowardly behavior and that might help to cut out this stuff.
Referees are going to have to wise up to this "tactic" and start punishing the real perpetrators. If we name these guys we will build up a black list that no player will want to join.
We already have last weeks sending off overturned by appeal which proves that Conway took a dive so if this case deserves to be appealed let Port do it and out these divers for once and for all before it spreads like a virus in the county.
Ease up there on the self righteous judge and jury act. Seriously. Bottom line appears to be in these cases- don't raise your hands to strike someone!
Not condoning feigning injury, but don't anonymously post on internet discussion boards baying for blood and looking to name and shame amateur players for petty enough stuff.
Quote from Keyser Söze
QuoteEase up there on the self righteous judge and jury act. Seriously. Bottom line appears to be in these cases- don't raise your hands to strike someone!
Not condoning feigning injury, but don't anonymously post on internet discussion boards baying for blood and looking to name and shame amateur players for petty enough stuff.
All very well being the nice guy Keyser Söze, but if you are happy to see our great game going the same way as soccer then I'm not. If lads don't want to be known as cheaters then let them be men and play the game in the spirt it was meant to be played.
If lads are cheating in that manner then they deserve to be named. Someone has to make a stand, not just sit back and accept that this is now part of our game and get on with it.
These articles are both worth looking at...
http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/diving-to-be-black-or-red-card-offence-349417.html (http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/diving-to-be-black-or-red-card-offence-349417.html)
http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/football/put-physicality-back-into-football-349421.html (http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/football/put-physicality-back-into-football-349421.html)
(P.S. Check your messages..)
Entertaining game last night. Played at a real championship pace. Port probably played the better football and missed 1 or 2 good goal chances but after being behind with a man light they must be happy with a draw. Shiels was a huge addition to Stradbally. Adds real pace and directness to that forward line. Maher at midfield for stradbally gave an exhibition on high fielding.
Predictions for the rest of the weekend:
Arles killeen vs Arles Kilcruise . game of the weekend, Killeen by 2.
Ballyroan vs The Heath... The Heath by 5, surely bet of the weekend at 8/15
Mountmellick vs St. Josephs... Mountmellick by 2.
Portlaoise vs Killeshin... Portlaoise, but not by the margin everyone expects. Portlaoise by 3
Graigue vs O'Dempseys ... tough one to call this. a tentative nod to O'Dempseys
Ballyfin vs Crettyard ... Crettyard to grind it out. Crettyard by 1
Emo vs Ballylinan ... Ballylinan to win by 3
Arles Killeen v Arles Kilcruise --- Killeen
Ballyroan v The Heath --- The Heath
Mountmellick v St. Josephs --- St Joseph's
Portlaoise v Killeshin --- Portlaoise
Graiguecullen v O'Dempseys --- Graiguecullen
Ballyfin v Crettyard --- Crettyard
Emo v Ballylinan --- Ballylinan
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 22, 2015, 01:52:44 AM
Quote from Keyser Söze
QuoteEase up there on the self righteous judge and jury act. Seriously. Bottom line appears to be in these cases- don't raise your hands to strike someone!
Not condoning feigning injury, but don't anonymously post on internet discussion boards baying for blood and looking to name and shame amateur players for petty enough stuff.
All very well being the nice guy Keyser Söze, but if you are happy to see our great game going the same way as soccer then I'm not. If lads don't want to be known as cheaters then let them be men and play the game in the spirt it was meant to be played.
If lads are cheating in that manner then they deserve to be named. Someone has to make a stand, not just sit back and accept that this is now part of our game and get on with it.
These articles are both worth looking at...
http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/diving-to-be-black-or-red-card-offence-349417.html (http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/diving-to-be-black-or-red-card-offence-349417.html)
http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/football/put-physicality-back-into-football-349421.html (http://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/football/put-physicality-back-into-football-349421.html)
(P.S. Check your messages..)
I don't disagree that it's wrong or should be punished. But just don't like the idea of fellas being named and crucified anonymously online.
P.S. Thanks for your help!
Weekend Results:
Portarlington 0-13
Stradbally 0-13
Crettyard 3-13
Ballyfin 4-4
Arles Killeen 1-10
Arles Kilcruise 0-11
The Heath 2-14
Ballyroan Abbey 0-7
Emo 1-11
Ballylinan 1-09
Graiguecullen 1-13
O'Dempsey's 1-07
St Joseph's 2-13
Mountmellick 0-6
Portlaoise 1-16
Killeshin 0-07
Round 3 Draw
Killeshin v Emo
Ballyroan Abbey v Graiguecullen
Arles-Kilcruise v Port/Stradbally
Mountmellick v Crettyard
Relegation Semi-Final Draws
Losers of Stradbally/Portarlington v O'Dempsey's
Ballyfin v Ballylinan
Ballylinan had the beating of Emo but i felt they overcomplicated things with an unnecessary sweeper system, they'd a few tough calls against them near the end when they were getting close to Emo. O dempseys were poor, really looked beaten after a few minutes, Peter o Leary still has it, kicked 2 lovely points from full back. Barry Brennan still has a bit of class and had a great first half. Josephs put in the performance of the weekend..excellent displays from some of their young lads, Dylan Doyle, James Smith and 2-4 from play from wingforward Michael Keogh...all 3 under 20 yrs old. Killeshin didn't turn up at all after impressing v o Dempseys
Watched 4 games the weekend. Kileen were extremely lucky against Arles. Arles missed at least 3 clear goals and were a bit unlucky. Leigh made a couple of brilliant saves from Ross. Big Donie(on one leg) done all the damage but they will need to improve if they are to progress. Heath won easily enough against Ballyroan. Chris Bergin pulled all the strings for them along with the full forward Fitzgerald and the Booths at midfield. St Josephs were the surprise team this weekend. They were rampant against Mountmellick and it seems they were short at least a third of their team. They have some very good young players coming through. M Keogh scored the two goals and 3 or 4 points. They have two very talented players in the Doyle brothers along with Dan Dunne, Aidan Brennan and D Ramsbottom. Future champions i think but it may be a bit too early for them this years. They are also in the minor final i believe. Portlaoise brushed aside kileshin with ease and with a few players to come back they are still the team to beat and the rest of us to set the bar against. Interesting relegation battle ahead unless another loophole is resurected
Was disappointed with the Arles derby, it lacked the passion and intensity of a local derby. Killeen were lucky to get out with a win, if Kilcruise had took their goal chances the result might have been different. Graigue showed some improvement from the Kilcruise game, was very impressed with Alcock at full back, young Byrne,Murphy, O Reilly and Collins when he came on. Timmons was his usual steady self and drove his team on,Barry Brennan is a useful addition also, if they click they could be dark horses.
One thing about the Arles game was the quality of some of the points from play.
Ross Munnelly also seems to have his mojo back kicking a couple of cracking points. Arles definately had goal chances but between good goalkeeping and some bad misses they didn't ship any goals.
Based on that performance I don't see Killeen winning a county title and without Kingston they are at very little.
In fairness, that's probably no real secret redsetanta. Even on one leg though, Donal Kingston is miles ahead of everyone in the county and that's the problem for teams playing Killeen. It would take at least two to mark him and that frees up a bit of room for the other lads. It was an important win for Killeen and I'm sure their confidence is growing. Portlaoise beat a very ordinary Killeshin team and don't look very convincing. It's a mediocre championship that they could and probably should win, but they are on the decline as a team and don't have much strength in depth. These games are not bringing forth any new players and it worries me greatly to see some of the hammerings being dished out by ordinary teams. A tough job ahead for whoever gets the county job.
You'd miss Huey around the place. He'd be going to town about the dirth of young talent coming through.
Quote from: redsetanta on August 24, 2015, 05:52:31 PM
You'd miss Huey around the place. He'd be going to town about the dirth of young talent coming through.
OTF mentioned earlier on a different thread that he was still around here as "Don".. not sure about that tho'
Quote from: OTF on July 09, 2015, 05:02:37 PM
Quote from: SCFC on July 08, 2015, 11:53:12 PM
Quote from: The Melancholy Sloth on July 08, 2015, 01:36:16 PM
I think Don has dug his own grave at this stage. A lot of posters on this forum seem to have a complete lack of decorum and there is a complete respect for the other posters and their opinions. At least on Laoistalk there was a moderator to filter out some of this stuff so the real issues at hand could be discussed.
The irony considering who Don used to be on Laoistalk!
Ha Ha that is very good.
I guessed it was Huey or himself and Huey has no sense of humour..
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 24, 2015, 06:21:23 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on August 24, 2015, 05:52:31 PM
You'd miss Huey around the place. He'd be going to town about the dirth of young talent coming through.
OTF mentioned earlier on a different thread that he was still around here as "Don".. not sure about that tho'
Quote from: OTF on July 09, 2015, 05:02:37 PM
Quote from: SCFC on July 08, 2015, 11:53:12 PM
Quote from: The Melancholy Sloth on July 08, 2015, 01:36:16 PM
I think Don has dug his own grave at this stage. A lot of posters on this forum seem to have a complete lack of decorum and there is a complete respect for the other posters and their opinions. At least on Laoistalk there was a moderator to filter out some of this stuff so the real issues at hand could be discussed.
The irony considering who Don used to be on Laoistalk!
Ha Ha that is very good.
I guessed it was Huey or himself and Huey has no sense of humour..
No Junior, from what I can gather Don was more senior shall we say.
I never though I say this but you'd miss Huey whinger and all as he was.
Quote from: OTF on August 24, 2015, 08:37:18 PM
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 24, 2015, 06:21:23 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on August 24, 2015, 05:52:31 PM
You'd miss Huey around the place. He'd be going to town about the dirth of young talent coming through.
OTF mentioned earlier on a different thread that he was still around here as "Don".. not sure about that tho'
Quote from: OTF on July 09, 2015, 05:02:37 PM
Quote from: SCFC on July 08, 2015, 11:53:12 PM
Quote from: The Melancholy Sloth on July 08, 2015, 01:36:16 PM
I think Don has dug his own grave at this stage. A lot of posters on this forum seem to have a complete lack of decorum and there is a complete respect for the other posters and their opinions. At least on Laoistalk there was a moderator to filter out some of this stuff so the real issues at hand could be discussed.
The irony considering who Don used to be on Laoistalk!
Ha Ha that is very good.
I guessed it was Huey or himself and Huey has no sense of humour..
No Junior, from what I can gather Don was more senior shall we say.
I never though I say this but you'd miss Huey whinger and all as he was.
Oh please don't draw him on us!
I liked Huey as he always had his own opinion on all things Laois and he was a very knowledgeable guy as far as Gaa was concerned.
Huey, if you are around let yourself be known and bring back the banter to this forum... :P
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 25, 2015, 12:51:54 AM
I liked Huey as he always had his own opinion on all things Laois and he was a very knowledgeable guy as far as Gaa was concerned.
Huey, if you are around let yourself be known and bring back the banter to this forum... :P
We are all going to suffer because of this.....
Quote from: Keyser Söze on August 25, 2015, 01:11:29 AM
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 25, 2015, 12:51:54 AM
I liked Huey as he always had his own opinion on all things Laois and he was a very knowledgeable guy as far as Gaa was concerned.
Huey, if you are around let yourself be known and bring back the banter to this forum... :P
We are all going to suffer because of this.....
Ye Huey it hard to believe you stayed away this long.
A relatively poor round of games at the weekend. Well, the ones I saw anyway. The Heath really look good and now look like the team that could challenge Portlaoise over Kileen. They haven't had any real challenge as of yet so it will be interesting to see how they fair, their tails will be up though and will fancy their chances against anyone. Portlaoise beat Killeshin with relative ease and its possible they will face no real challenge prior to a county semi final at least! A poor enough championship so far though i'm afraid!
On the relegation side of things, shocked to see O'Dempseys down there, as I would have fancied them to do well this year! It doesn't look great for Ballyfin in their first year senior and will struggle to beat any of those teams in the relegation side.
I thought the Arles v Killeen game was pretty good. There's not much between them but if Killeen can get Enright back and Donie K fully fit, it will give them a big shot. Arles Kilcruise were a bit unlucky not to score at least one goal. Would've been interesting had they done so.
Saw second half of Crettyard v Ballyfin. It now looks bad for Ballyfin but I wouldn't rule them out against Ballylinan in the relegation semi. Young Moore is just a joy to watch. He's the kind of player that excites you when the ball heads in his direction and it's a while since we've had one of those. With Finn back, I hope they give staying up a right good go.
Crettyard looked OK but I think Mountmellick should beat them next day out.
The Heath were very good. It's great to see one of the county's traditional clubs going well. They haven't many weak positions and could well reach the final. The big Kerryman can look ungainly at times but he's very effective. Chris Bergin is in great form and young Keane is dangerous.
Ballyroan Abbey were very disappointing. Tierney got a couple of nice scores but they lacked firepower upfront apart from him.
Any players showing "County Potential" over the weekend?
Quote from: beano on August 25, 2015, 07:27:07 PM
Any players showing "County Potential" over the weekend?
Nothing new that I saw. Joe Mulhare of Killeen is a pretty sticky back and might be worth trying.
Where did the two Stynes brothers go that played with Kilcruise? One of them, Rory, was a very good player. Mick O'Shea not playing too?
Two Stynes' playing rugby with Old Wesley as far as I know and Mick Shea has hung up his boots.
Yes the young Moore is a great talent I believe if ballyfin had their full side they could have matched if not beaten crettyard.
The Heath look to be going great guns and I think they can get to the final if they avoid the town
Wouldn't be suprised to see Crettyard beat MM, MM looked flakey against joes and while joes fowards were good not sure if MM will be able to deal with carroll and murphy among maher and brennan in the Cretty attack. Arles Kilcruise if avoid Portlaoise may get a good run, very unlucky v Kileen. Can't see Port slipping up again especially if they have a full 15, strad lack complacency in letting both porlaoise and port comeback at them. However town still team to beat, anyone have any idea who's next in line??
Port must be one of the most frustrating teams in senior football. Played very well tonight to hammer Strad but capable of losing to anyone on a bad day. Think Arles Kilcruise will beat them in round three.
Port are unpredictable alright SCFC. Port won the replay by winning more ball in the middle. they kept the ball away from maher at midfield and won all the breaking ball. the stradbally forwards were starved of ball. Stradbally seem to have no panel. they took 2 players off, only to later bring them back on.
Colm Murphy from what I have seen in the 2 games deserves a county call up. Stradbally v Ballyfin relegation final looks likely now.
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on August 25, 2015, 12:51:54 AM
I liked Huey as he always had his own opinion on all things Laois and he was a very knowledgeable guy as far as Gaa was concerned.
Huey, if you are around let yourself be known and bring back the banter to this forum... :P
You have to chant his name backwards, in front of a mirror at midnight to invoke his Hueyness.
Round 3 gets underway tonight with Crettyard vs MountMellick and Ballyroan Abbey vs Graiguecullen.
Both town teams are favourite but I wouldn't write off both crettyard and Ballyroan. Graigue and MM are "typical town teams", they can be irresistible or they can awful. Much relies on the first 20 mins of both games to see if they will be blow out or a competitive battle.
Tomorrow night, you have the stand out game between Port and Arles Kilcruise. Again Port fit the "typical town team" mould as evident in the contrast between both games against Stradbally. While Arles were good against neighbours Killeen only for some spectacular saves from Leigh they could be already through to a quarter final. Going with Kilcruise by 2.
Emo v Killeshin. Going to give the nod to the sash! Think they are a better team than they showed against portlaoise! Saying this if it comes down to a dogfight Emo might have more battle in them. Killeshin by 4
Tonight in O'Moore Park.
Mountmellick v Crettyard: 18:30 Ref: Eddie Kinsella
Ballyroan Abbey v Graiguecullen: 20:00 Ref: Joe Brennan
Should be two interesting games, Mountmellick v Crettyard is a hard one to call, Cretty looked good at times in their last game and if they can keep that momentum going its their game to lose. I go for Crettyard by a small margin in this one.
Graiguecullen should have enough to see off Ballyroan in the second game but as usual with them you don't know what you're going to get. They have some good players but to get the best out of them on match day is always a problem. Its Graiguecullen for me in this one.
Mountmellick / Grague double for me.
Maybe I should not be commenting at this stage but "sick" thought we had a right chance of pulling off an upset. Funny enough we had a decent year. Improved alot from last year if we could do the same next year 1/4 or Semi Final. We have come up short our aim was 1/4. But 8 Under 21 4 Under 18 happy enough. Gavin Tynan was a star for us this year. But how in gods name Mick Lillis could overlook Conor Brennan defies logic. He is minor again next year but he is all over a county player down the line. I might be a keyboard warrior but only a sub on Laois minor team???????
Two enjoyable games last night with plenty of skill and passion from all teams involved. Mountmellick had a great start with two early goals and looked all over winners from then till half time even tho' Cretty never gave up.
Evan O'Carroll really got into the game in the second half and started to run at Mountmellick and it paid off as all they could do to stop him was foul and the deadly accurate Cormac Murphy punished most of those by slotting frees over from all angles.
The second half was all Crettyard and they missed a few chances to wrap it up but it ended in a draw.
The second game was better quality and Ballyroan got off to a great start and were five points to two ahead and playing great football. Then a high ball into the square by Barry Brennan was brilliantly met with the fist by Arron Forbes and into the net to level the game. In the second half Ballyroan went three points ahead when another long ball in was misjudged by the keeper, slipped through his hands and into the net. It was unfortunate for them but Graiguecullen then started to dominate around midfield with the introduction of Birdy Hand at midfield.
Ballyroan then lost Tierney to a black card after a dirty foul on O'Reilly but they continued to battle on and Conor Brennan who played very well throughout the game grabbed a few good points. Graiguecullen were really up for it now and some great points by Barry Brennan and a whopper of a score from Aaron Forbes from 50 meters sealed the victory for them.
Only seen the last 10 minutes of Crettyard v Mountmellick. A half 6 throw in is hardly ideal for players or supporters. Poor crowd in for the first game id guess. From what I did see of that game id wonder how Crettyard were behind, they were dominant in all areas at that stage and missed some very score-able opportunities to win it.
The Ballyroan v Graigue game was very enjoyable until the rain came bucketing down midway trough the second half. Ballyroan will fell hard done by after conceding 2 very soft goals. The second in particular you might see more commonly at an under 12 or 14 game.
This black card is really turning farcical in my opinion. Joe brennan last night gave 2 black cards for late tackles but when a third late tackle came in from young forbes he gave him yellow. At least be consistent in the calls.
Graigue could be a match for most teams, with Brennan, Forbes and especially Timmons hitting form.
Looking forward to tonight's game.
I hardly ever get to club games anymore and depend on these reports to keep up to date with whats going on.
Its being a long time since I've read a good report about a good club game in Laois.... could thing be looking up :)
Arles beat Port by 2-08 to 0-10.
Port missed a penalty 10 mins into second half when Arles were 07 - 05 up. Soon after Chris Conway got a goal. Port brought it back to within a point or so but Arles scored a second goal.
So Arles head into quarters.
Anyone at Emo v Killeshin? Heard Killeshin were very poor but it's a great year for Emo now no matter what else happens.
Killeshin: 0-7
Emo: 2-9
Didn't hear much about it but seemingly it was a poor enough game.
Laois SFC Quarter Finals:
Arles Killeen v Graiguecullen
Portlaoise v Crettyard/Mountmellick
The Heath v Arles Kilcruise
Emo v St Joseph's
Arles Killeen, Portlaoise, Kilcruise after replay & Josephs. Still hard to see past Portlaoise would not like killeen to win it with all there transfer activities.
Crettyard and Mountmellick drew again tonight. Anybody at it? Following on Twitter and it seemed a late Evan O'Carroll goal forced extra time and then Cretty came back again from behind in that to force a second replay.
With the Quarters due next week, it will be interesting to see what happens fixture wise now.
Quote from: Shapes Ex Laoistalk on September 11, 2015, 12:13:17 AM
Crettyard and Mountmellick drew again tonight. Anybody at it? Following on Twitter and it seemed a late Evan O'Carroll goal forced extra time and then Cretty came back again from behind in that to force a second replay.
With the Quarters due next week, it will be interesting to see what happens fixture wise now.
Very poor game of football last night. 2 very limited teams. The free taking on both sides was the saving grace in the game. Coss missed a penalty for mountmellick after half time that would have been a hammer blow to Crettyard.
Mountmellick were 3 ahead in injury time when the ball was lobbed into the square, a couple of mountmellick players fumbled the ball allowing a goal.
Crettyard have to be the most dogged team in the championship. fair play to them. they never lie down. Eoin George and Evan O Carroll were the best players on show from open play.
Portlaoise will ease into a semi final on this evidence.
Lads I don't like doing this because it is a thankless job but i think it has to be said now. The refereeing standard in the county is a at a very poor standard. We have 2 top referees and rarely use them.
Last nights referee was 30-40 yards away from the play for most of the game, made some calls that an RTE comedy sketch show would have been proud of and was booed off by both sets of supporters.
If it means stumping up an extra few quid to attract some new blood then so be it.
Quote from: Hospital Pass on September 11, 2015, 10:48:01 PM
Lads I don't like doing this because it is a thankless job but i think it has to be said now. The refereeing standard in the county is a at a very poor standard. We have 2 top referees and rarely use them.
Last nights referee was 30-40 yards away from the play for most of the game, made some calls that an RTE comedy sketch show would have been proud of and was booed off by both sets of supporters.
If it means stumping up an extra few quid to attract some new blood then so be it.
I agree I have seen two terrible displays this year now By SM in the Ballyfin Joes game and this by VD in this game some of the calls were just hard to stomach for anyone watching neutral or other...They are just not up to it!
This weeks Fixtures, anyone fancy to call:
Thursday: Crettyard v Mountmellick
Friday: Arles-Killeen V Graigue
Saturday: Josephs V Emo
Ballylinan V Ballyfin
Stradbally V O'Dempseys
Portlaoise V Crettyard/Mountmellick
The Heath V Arles Kilcruise
Quote from: Laoischat on September 16, 2015, 08:49:26 AM
This weeks Fixtures, anyone fancy to call:
Thursday: Crettyard v Mountmellick Mountmellick to finally close out this fixture!
Friday: Arles-Killeen V Graigue Killeen to beat a resurgent Graigue. Could be tight. Timmons/Kingston battle will be good!!
Saturday: Josephs V Emo Josephs, this will be tight I think, Joseph's to get over the line in the end.
Ballylinan V Ballyfin Ballylinan to win this dogfight!
Stradbally V O'Dempseys O'Dempseys to win this dogfight!!
Portlaoise V Crettyard/Mountmellick Portlaoise at a canter.
The Heath V Arles Kilcruise The Heath Game of the weekend with the Heath to come out on top.
This weeks Fixtures, anyone fancy to call:
Thursday: Crettyard v Mountmellick (Mountmellick best of a bad bunch)
Friday: Arles-Killeen V Graigue (Kileen by 3, Timmons v Kingston will be interesting)
Saturday: Josephs V Emo (Josephs by 4)
Ballylinan V Ballyfin (Ballyfin by 2, if they can get the ball into their full forwards line to the moores and not focus so much on getting men behind the ball, they could secure their saftey
Stradbally V O'Dempseys (O'Dempseys should ease through this, 5/6 point gap)
Portlaoise V Crettyard/Mountmellick (Portloaise will stroll)
The Heath V Arles Kilcruise (Kilcruise, but as uisce said, probably the game I'm most looking forward to this weekend
Great weekend of football ahead, here are the full list and times.
17/09/2015
19:45 : Crettyard v Mountmellick
Venue : O Moore Park
Referee : Maurice Deegan
18/09/2015
19:45 : Arles/Killeen v Graiguecullen
Venue : O Moore Park
Referee : Brendan McCann
19/09/2015
16:30 : St Joseph's v Emo
Venue : O Moore Park
Referee : John Flynn
17:00 : Ballylinan v Ballyfin
Venue : Ratheniska
Referee : Eddie Kinsella
17:00 : Stradbally v O'Dempseys
Venue : Annanough GAA
Referee : Joe Brennan
18:00 : Portlaoise v Crettyard/Mountmellick
Venue : O Moore Park
Referee : David Moore
19:30 : The Heath v Arles Kilcruise
Venue : O Moore Park
Referee : Maurice Deegan
Lads is Portlaoise v Crettyard/Mountmellick definitely on Saturday. I thought I seen something about it being moved to Monday night??
Yeah the Portlaoise game is on Monday.
If that's the case I take it the time of either the Emo v Josephs or Kilcruise v Heath game will change.
Quote from: Laoischat on September 16, 2015, 08:49:26 AM
This weeks Fixtures, anyone fancy to call:
Thursday: Crettyard v Mountmellick
Friday: Arles-Killeen V Graigue
Saturday: Josephs V Emo
Ballylinan V Ballyfin
Stradbally V O'Dempseys
Portlaoise V Crettyard/Mountmellick
The Heath V Arles Kilcruise
I am going with
Cretty
Kileen
Josephs
Ballylinan
O'ds
Port
Arles-k
Quote from: Uisce on September 17, 2015, 08:51:55 AM
Yeah the Portlaoise game is on Monday.
According to the Official Laois GAA Website it's on Saturday..
Quote from: redsetanta on September 17, 2015, 09:18:24 AM
If that's the case I take it the time of either the Emo v Josephs or Kilcruise v Heath game will change.
Josephs-Emo is at 6 i believe.
Portlaoise-Castletown/SB are playing in the Minor Hurling Final at 4.
Mountmellick advanced to Laois SFC quarter finals following a good win over Crettyard last night in O'Moore Park.
They finally finished this three game saga on a scoreline of 2-12 to 0-13.
They now move on to play Portlaoise on Monday evening.
Eddie Kinsella is doing a relegation playoff instead of a quarter final this weekend only in laois.
Quote from: From the Terrace on September 18, 2015, 10:59:40 AM
Eddie Kinsella is doing a relegation playoff instead of a quarter final this weekend only in laois.
Think they've seen Ballyfin's history in both codes this year, and with Ballylinan being no angels either, they might need their best ref to keep them from killing eachother.
Maybe see your point, but if your getting to quarter finals of senior championships, Players & team management deserve good quality officials.
Good win for Killeen tonight on a scoreline of 3-10 to 1-11. Great competitive game but Killeen had the better finishers..
Ballyfin safe after a one point win over Ballylinan.
Ballylinan kicked away plenty of chances for a draw or even a win.
Great result for Arles tonight. A 1-11 to 1-11 draw with the Heath. Pressure point from Chris Conway to draw the match with time up. Great kick from him. Hard to know who'd be happiest with the final result. Heath could have been well ahead at half time but Arles made alot of errors in the second half. It will be an interesting replay. Killeen have played 3 games and are in the semi final. The replay will be Arles' 6th game in this years championship and still at quarter final stage.
Good to see Ballyfin up senior for another year. You'd imagine O dempseys would beat ballylinan in relegation final. Probably better in short term for ballylinan to be down intermediate. A realistic chance of silverware.
Great win for Emo also. Some turnaround from 1st round defeat.
Kilcruise celebrating as if they won a county final last night after the draw. How Kevin Meaney stayed on the field for the 60 minutes is beyond me. Ross with some outrageous points and Evin Keane for the heath having great game. Heath were very wasteful overall but should come through the replay next weekend. That game will do them no harm in the long run.
Good win for Emo alright but Josephs were dire in the final third. They didn't look coached or drilled at all. Ball carriers looked clueless when they got anywhere near the Emo goal.
They don't seem to know what style of football they are supposed to be playing and were all over the place. Maybe they were having an off day as I hadn't seen them this year but it was very poor stuff from them.
Great win for Ballyfin. A young team who need to be playing senior games. Sean & James Moore in attack are something special. Sean with another 1-5.
A very defensive set up though, Ciaran Duff mashalled it very well from centre back
QuoteThink they've seen Ballyfin's history in both codes this year, and with Ballylinan being no angels either, they might need their best ref to keep them from killing eachother.
A bit of a snide remark to be fair. If Kinsella had to be reffing the Josephs game then maybe we would have had no "history" at all as you say yourself.
On the game itself there wasn't one dirty stroke in it a testament to both teams. Ballyfin did their best to lose it with Sean Moore missing an easy free to put us 5 up but we just about held. Gary Walsh looked extremely dangerous any time he got the ball which unfortunately for Ballylinan wasn't enough.
Delighted for the lads. Horan, Finn and the 2 Moores all played massive games. Delighted for the lads to stay up. Another year will benefit them no end
Quote from: Jimmy P on September 21, 2015, 10:30:04 AM
QuoteThink they've seen Ballyfin's history in both codes this year, and with Ballylinan being no angels either, they might need their best ref to keep them from killing eachother.
A bit of a snide remark to be fair. If Kinsella had to be reffing the Josephs game then maybe we would have had no "history" at all as you say yourself.
Wasn't meant to be a snide remark, just between the Joseph's game, and the hurling Ballyfin have had their fair share of red cards, deserved or not, they have built a wee reputation for themselves, I personally would agree with you but on the whole the issue as to why Kinsella was reffing is understandable.
Great reult for ballyfin. I thought Killeen were very impressive. Kingston on fire.
Lets Just hope Killeen and Portlaoise avoid each other until the final, could do with a decent final....no disrespect to Mountmellick but Portlaoise should do ok tonight
Big win for Portlaoise tonight!
A total non entity of a game, Mountmellick were never in the game. Portlaoise looked good but missed a number of chances. Defensively Portlaoise were very good.
True, Mountmellick were never in the game. Expended a lot of energy getting over Crettyard so maybe they just didn't have the legs. Though Portlaoise looked excellent however, played some very nice football and kicked some great scores. There was a few times they could have went for goal and took the point, would expect them to be far more ruthless later. Rodgers, Glynn, Cotter not starting and Zach possible to come back. Looking good for them again!
Mountmellick looked tired at times alright but I thought the conditioning and fitness of the Portlaoise team looked immense. I dont think I've ever seen Bruno as fit.
Is it true that the semis are Sunday the 4th and final is on the 11th?
Agreed, was massively impressed with Portlaoise. Not sure about the dates. Hurling final this weekend.. Which would mean football semi finals the weekend after, and final 2 weeks later.. 18th October? Strange that the football final is 3 weeks after the hurling alright.. Not sure though!
Horrible display by The Heath tonight. Can't understand how they can prioritise possibly winning a Junior A title over bringing on a few subs who might dig them out of the hole they were in early in the second half.
Well done Arles, brilliant stuff from Ross, Davy Conway, Meaney in patches and a great young corner back Ciaran Lawlor.
Quote from: SCFC on September 25, 2015, 10:41:01 PM
Horrible display by The Heath tonight. Can't understand how they can prioritise possibly winning a Junior A title over bringing on a few subs who might dig them out of the hole they were in early in the second half.
Well done Arles, brilliant stuff from Ross, Davy Conway, Meaney in patches and a great young corner back Ciaran Lawlor.
Due respects to you SCFC but the Heath could have brought on who they liked and they wouldnt have beaten Arles last night.....Some display from all of them to be fair. Their was no one fit to mark Ross or Davey and Brendan when he came on. Podge turned back the years marking a lad twice as tall as him. Heads down now for the Emo game and they could make the final. Great prospect of Arles :) and Kileen ;D in a final if they can overcome a flying Portlaoise
You're right, it probably would have made no difference but I thought it showed a lack of ambition on the part of The Heath. They should have taken off 4/5 lads but wouldn't do it to keep the junior team intact.
Id agree with you SCFC. The difference between the 2 teams last night was the management. Glen Ryan got his match ups right and used his bench well when lads where flagging. On the other hand the Heath wasted more ball kicking it into the big Fitzgerald fella and never brought off players who were struggling.
Munnelly and David Conway were given too much space. They were both excellent.
Young Lawlor at 4 for Kilcruise had a powerful game alright. His point was pure determination.
I would expect Kilcruise to make the final now but the other semi will provide this years championship winners.
Great display by Arles the other night.
They keep pulling out big performances like this year in year out.
Ross was just superb. Davy Conway not far behind.
The Heath just had a nightmare second half. Agree with previous posters, they really needed fresh legs in a few positions and obviously were keeping them back for the JFC final next Friday.
Great result for Arles and it's some achievement to be in yet another county semi final. They will relish the chance to get to another county final and who would back against them. Emo will be confident after the draw too and they did look impressive in the Q/F albeit against a clueless Josephs team.
If Killeen could manage a shock in the other semi final I would be confident that Arles would beat them in a final were that to be the pairing.
If Arles could win a county title there is no-one who could say they don't deserve it as they have been the second best team in Laois over the past 6 or 7 years and without the all conquering Portlaoise team they would have another county title by now.
Quote from: redsetanta on September 28, 2015, 11:33:13 AM
Great result for Arles and it's some achievement to be in yet another county semi final. They will relish the chance to get to another county final and who would back against them. Emo will be confident after the draw too and they did look impressive in the Q/F albeit against a clueless Josephs team.
If Killeen could manage a shock in the other semi final I would be confident that Arles would beat them in a final were that to be the pairing.
If Arles could win a county title there is no-one who could say they don't deserve it as they have been the second best team in Laois over the past 6 or 7 years and without the all conquering Portlaoise team they would have another county title by now.
Fully agree with your sentiments redsetanta. And to think this time last year Arles were in the pot for relegation and only for the famous c**k-up could have been relegated. Would love to see a final between Arles & Kileen....thier would be some jostling for flag pole positions 8) ;D. Buntings would be intermingled, Sunday mass would be all ticket....will it happen??
Great to see Ross back playing very well, he was the difference in open play. I wonder if he's doing a bit of speed work.
Arles killcruise should be congratulated they are a credit to themselves
Special mention to Ballyfin it was a great game of football
Going back to Portlaoise's display last week, their determination throughout was completely admirable, thye never took their foot off the gas. Each sub they brought on added something to an already strong team. Attacking movement was exemplary and Killeen will need to be at the top of their game to get the W on this one.
But would anyone agree that if Killeen are to beat Portloaie it will be in a semi final?
Killeen will test The Town for sure but the benches will be the difference!
I hear Zac will be there if needed surely worth 3 points alone!
Town by 6
emo will give Arles a hard game and if they can get a goal or two I think they could come very close
Kilcruise by two
Zach will not be playing Sunday from what I hear....
Little bit of topic but great to see Donie Kingston getting an All Star nomination this morning despite the poor year we had. Hopefully he'll one in the not too distant future.
Quote from: Helix on October 01, 2015, 11:16:12 AM
Little bit of topic but great to see Donie Kingston getting an All Star nomination this morning despite the poor year we had. Hopefully he'll one in the not too distant future.
Delighted he got some recognition on a national stage, he is a top player and Laois would be in severe trouble without him.
As for Sundays two matches , I expect to extremely tight matches.
With Emo vs Arles-Kilcruise I expect Kilcruise to win by a couple of points, they know how to win and have some fine players.If there was any team I would like to see win the county title if my own club didnt it would be Kilcruise without doubt. As a club they are a credit to themselves.
As for Portlaoise vs Arles-Killeen . Arles- Kileen seem to be flying and will without doubt be fancying their chances against Portlaoise on Sunday and rightfully so. Its very hard to know where Portlaoise are at, physically they are in amazing shape but they haven't been tested yet and haven't come out of first gear and that certainly wont be good enough on Sunday. By all accounts the new management team of Portlaoise have shaken things up significantly and have put it up to players who were perceived to be in a comfort zone, which is great to hear and I see a strong performance from a number of lads on sunday. Portlaoise by 2 points
Just to clarify what the above comments are about...
I take it the early start is to allow people to see the Rugby world cup game at 16.45 - Ireland vs Italy
O'Moore Park
04-10-2015
13:30
Arles Kilcruise v Emo Ref: David Moore
15:00
Arles/Killeen vs Portlaoise Ref: Eddie Kinsella
Big shock that O'Dempseys were relegated. Not the fact that Ballylinan beat them, just that a team that would have aspirations towards the latter end of the championship finds themselves relegated.
Quote from: redsetanta on October 03, 2015, 06:21:06 PM
Big shock that O'Dempseys were relegated. Not the fact that Ballylinan beat them, just that a team that would have aspirations towards the latter end of the championship finds themselves relegated.
Ballylinan were good value with the bookies for this one, around 5/2 afaik, o'd's had shown very little all year to suggest they'd be capable of a result, but as said, at the start of the year you'd never thought it.
Decent game between Arles V Emo today. little between these two and the replay will be hard to call although Arles will feel confident as they will improve i think. Ross wasnt as prolific as the last day against the Heath but he still kept his nerve to score the crucial goal. darren strong was outstanding for Emo.
Kileen were at sea for most of their game against a Portlaoise team in first or second gear at most. They tried hard but were way out of their depbt and only for Donies fetching in midfield they would have been hammered.Kileen needed Paul Kingston, Donie Brennan Enright and Julian to be at their best but they were very Very poor. Kileen could end up on a very rapid downward spiral after this loss as they dont seem to have anything coming through.what can you say about Portlaoise that has'nt been said over and over for the past 9 years. They are head and shoulders above the rest of us.
Some win for Ballylinan. Would have thought Dempseys might have had enough to win but obviously not. I wasn't at the game but it's hard to comprehend what went wrong for them this year. Losing to Timahoe in the Division 2 final then getting rid of their manager has obviously had a very negative impact on their year.But fair play to Ballylinan.
Kilcruise and Emo was decent, Emo fought hard and kept Kilcruise's bug players relatively quiet and only for a mistake by their goalie probably would have won. Kilcruise will hope they can step up there game and win the next day. There was a incident in the first half where Mick Lawlor struck one of Kilcruise players in the face and then elbowed him right in the face while the umpires were looking straight at it. They talked to the referee but nothing came of it. It was unbelievable he didn't get the line, have no idea what the umpires were at.
Portlaoise put in there usual performance and will have no real problem winning again this year I feel. They played some great football and have strength in depth which is a asset that most teams to do not have. They kept the Kingstons quiet and after that there wasn't a whole lot Arles offered. Never really felt at any time that they were going to win the game.
Must be very disappointing for o'dempseys. Most people probably had them as dark horses for championship at start of year. Fair play to a young ballylinan team though.
emo nearly pulled it off. Their goalie will be relieved alright.
hard to know who'll pull it off. It would be remarkable for pat Ryan to get a 3rd club to a county final.
town were always in control. Even when Killeen got it back to 3 points they tacked on 3 scores immediately. Need to improve on their own kick outs and probably a bit too pure at back with no sweeper. Killeen very poor and predictable. Ball moved very slowly compared to Town.
Town seem to have found a couple of younger lads and are renewing themselves. Their hunger and work rate is fantastic typified by last couple of points where Bruno fought like a demon to win the ball back even though the result was probably secured.
If you're looking at some team to take over from The Town every potential club seems to be regressing. Killeen & kilcruise nearing end (it will be interesting to see where both are in 5 years) stradbally gone back a lot, port very disappointing, o'dempseys relegated. Josephs probably the likely team now but it will take a few years.
Now Timahoe and O'Dempseys in the intermediate next year.
Very strange to have heard the Timahoe result. Many had them as sure favorites to stroll straight back into the senior championship, after Ballyfin left them for dead last year. But again they have failed. Between Annanough and Clonaslee now for senior status.
Courtwood very unlucky not to beat Annanough.
Portlaoise were always going to win. Bruno had some game - I wonder if there are any Laois days in him yet. It'll be a predictable final. Whatever about amalgamating clubs - if Arles stayed as one we'd have a bit of a fight. Fair play to Emo, punching above their weight. Will lillis get a few of the new young portlaoise lads on board? Seems to me that Laois with Cahilane, Bruno and 3/4 new to laois lads would greatly improve the county squad.
Ross's missed free at the end was crucial for Emo. If that had gone over it put 2 points between the sides. In fairness a draw in the end was fair on both teams. Watching Portlaoise in the second game though it's hard to see anything other than another title for them. They were sharp and always had a response in them if Killeen drew near. There is also a bit of steel about them which was evident. They are all good footballers, very well conditioned and look sharp at the moment.
On another note why is the replay between Arles and Emo fixed for Thursday evening with a big Euro qualifier against Germany on at the same time. The clash will certainly affect the attendance.
Big win for Emo last Thursday beating Arles Kilcruise by 3 goals, 3-08 to 0-08.
County final, Emo v Portlaoise fixed for Sunday 18th Oct at 4-00pm.
Thought i seen somewhere that throw in was at 5.15 ?.
Changed alright due to rugby.
Very little talk about county final on Sunday is it a sign of the interest in football in the county at the moment?
Does anyone give any hope to Emo at all?
Mickey Lawlor will torment them one way or the other. Emo ain't the worst and have improved as the championship went on.
Like Operation Market Garden it could be a bridge too far!
C'mon Aymo now!
Quote from: redsetanta on October 16, 2015, 12:38:17 PM
Mickey Lawlor will torment them one way or the other. Emo ain't the worst and have improved as the championship went on
u
2 goals scored and last min free to level it. Portlaoise were atrocious and still managed to get out of jail: fair play to them.
Town should win replay. Possibly fixed midweek as leinster club vs Palatine next weekend.
Great effort from Emo. You'd have to admire their spirit, guts and pure determination. And you'd also have to admire Portlaoise's comeback from what looked a really bad position.
I'm a Portlaoise man, but would have great for Laois football for Emo to win it. There, I said it.
It shows how far Portlaoise have slipped in the last couple of years. An ordinary game of football lit up by by Mick Lawlor who had the beating of Delaney and was left alone to do what he wanted. Portlaoise will make a few tweaks and that should be that, but their standards have lowered in line with the rest of the county. The Intermediate game was as bad a game as you are ever likely to see. Best player on show yesterday by a long long way was Darren Strong.
You have to hand it to Mick Lawlor though for a man of 42.
He is still a great man to win ball and you don't lose your skill with age.
hats off to emo thought they had it when they went 5 up, All over the field emo won there battles but portlaoise wore them down only for tuohy they would of won. Which is another issue dont think a professional athlete should be allowed play in our amateur sport imo. But was great to witness a county final which is in the balance throughout, roll on next saturday evening.
I am in total agreement with you from the terrace, it is not fair on the rest of the players to mark a professional player, it shouldn't be allowed. I think every year this topic of Zack playing comes up. Now I don't blame Zack for playing either, I would if I was in his position after all we all want to play for our club, but still I feel it's unfair. So the replay is fixed for next Saturday and the winners are out the following day against the Carlow Champs. Now Laois got knocked out of the senior football championship on the 20th of June. Four months later we are playing the county final! Surely the championship could have been played off a bit sooner?? The summer months seem to be used to play league games and when it gets down to the serious games we are in October training and playing in rain and muck!! I know there was some drawn games that required replays, but it's not fair on whoever wins the final on Saturday to go out and play the next day in the Leinster Championship. I think the county board need to have a look at the structure of the championship.
I think the championship format can only be changed at a county convention,so it couldn't have been played any earlier.
I'd imagine Emo missed the boat. Can't see Mick Lawlor getting the same space Saturday night.
There should be no replays in any championship game. It messes up lots of other championships especially where dual clubs are involved. Play extra time then next score wins if its still level.
Didnt give them a pray the first day, like the way they showed no fear of portlaoise. First time in a long while i never seen portlaoise with a good goal chance in a game. If emo play with same believe as last day give them a chance.
Portlaoise should win well next day out. Surely they wont make those unforced errors again. Quick direct ball into Cahillane or Bruno should get them goals the next day.
Would like to see Emo do well but as mentioned already by some I think they missed the boat last Sunday. Double mark Mick Lalor ;D
Portlaoise win handy with enough in the tank for Palatine tomorrow.
Well done Portlaoise, when the chips are down you can depend on them to do the job. 9 in a row... Amazing... Good Luck tomorrow.
Portlaoise boss Malachy McNulty spoke to Jack Nolan after their Laois SFC success tonight
https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/malachy-mcnulty-portlaoise-9-in-a-row (https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/malachy-mcnulty-portlaoise-9-in-a-row)
(https://i1.sndcdn.com/artworks-000133830681-5fttnq-t500x500.jpg)
Quote from: Junior Ex Laoistalk on October 24, 2015, 11:52:08 PM
Well done Portlaoise, when the chips are down you can depend on them to do the job. 9 in a row... Amazing... Good Luck tomorrow.
Portlaoise boss Malachy McNulty spoke to Jack Nolan after their Laois SFC success tonight
https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/malachy-mcnulty-portlaoise-9-in-a-row (https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/malachy-mcnulty-portlaoise-9-in-a-row)
(https://i1.sndcdn.com/artworks-000133830681-5fttnq-t500x500.jpg)
some record to win 9 in a row, but i think even the dogs on the street knew there was only going to be one winner in the replay. don't think the chips were down to much. other win again today i think it will be a portlaoise and Vincents final again if they are not to meet before the final.
Well done to Portlaoise on two wins over the weekend. Hopefully they will go far in Leinster now, but Sarsfields will be a tough nut to crack. The Town were pretty impressive against Emo, who I think deserve a lot of praise for reaching the final.
I hope Mick Lillis can persuade the Portlaoise guys to commit to Laois for the coming year.
Well done Portlaoise. Hope Lillis can get 6 or 7 of them lads on board with Laois.
Now that the championships have finished up, we look towards awards season. Think the Leinster made a go of an "All-Star Team" as well as a player of the year, young player of the year:
1. Graham Brody (Portlaoise)
2. Shane Murphy ( Emo)
3. Shane Carney ( Emo0
4. David Seale (Portlaoise)
5. Darren Strong ( Emo)
6. Kieran Lillis (Portlaoise)
7. Cahir Healy (Portlaoise)
8. Evan O'Carrol (Crettyard)
9. Donie Kingston (Arles-Killeen)
10. Brian Smith (Portlaoise)
11. Ross Munnelly (Arles-Kilcruise)
12. Nigel Murphy (Emo)
13. Paul Cahilane ( Portlaoise)
14. Paul Lawlor (Emo)
15. Mick Lawlor (Emo)
Player of the year: Shane Murphy (Emo)
Young Player of the Year: Sean Moore (Ballyfin)
Some strange enough calls in that. Any opinions?
I thought Seale was the best defender in the championship and possibly the best player all year.
Agreed David Seale was a real gem this year. Himself, Brian Smith and Shane Murphy would be my 3 nominations for Player of the year.
No arguments with Sean Moore for Young Player
Brody, Seale, Cotter, Healy, Lillis, Boyle, Smyth, Dillon, Cahillane and Rodgers would all be valuable additions to the Laois squad this year. Here is hoping Lillis can get these lads on board.
St Vincents gone.... Portlaoise must gain confidence from that.
Dublin SFC Final - Ballyboden St Endas v St Vincents
First Half: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hmie_aWZ_4&feature=player_embedded#t=20 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hmie_aWZ_4&feature=player_embedded#t=20)
Second Half: https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5JMseUs2Ewk#t=20
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5JMseUs2Ewk#t=20)
"Brody, Seale, Cotter, Healy, Lillis, Boyle, Smyth, Dillon, Cahillane and Rodgers would all be valuable additions to the Laois squad this year. Here is hoping Lillis can get these lads on board. "
Boyle and Brody and Dillon were there this year were they not? Not really an addition then.
Of the rest Healy will hurl away Id imagine. Smyth would be worth a look along with Cotter and Seale however Rogers and Cahilane have been in before and offered nothing. Neither that young anymore either and generally if they havnt established themselves by now as inter county they they are not going to make it. Same goes for Lilis but im sure his father will be anxious to give him another go.
Wasn't overly impressed with Lillis this year, was solid throughout but nothing major. Was announced Tuesday as player of the year and with his dad in charge will definitely be involved at some level.
Healy will continue to commute for hurling.
Cahilane maybe, but whether he will fully commit needs to be looked at. Is he still in Wexford?
Seale and Cotter showed well, and are both under 25. Cotter has some serious size about him too.
Bruno's passed it with regards inter county.
Other than that, I cant see many more even coming close to the panel.
Quote from: Jimmy P on November 05, 2015, 01:00:26 PM
"Brody, Seale, Cotter, Healy, Lillis, Boyle, Smyth, Dillon, Cahillane and Rodgers would all be valuable additions to the Laois squad this year. Here is hoping Lillis can get these lads on board. "
Boyle and Brody and Dillon were there this year were they not? Not really an addition then.
Of the rest Healy will hurl away Id imagine. Smyth would be worth a look along with Cotter and Seale however Rogers and Cahilane have been in before and offered nothing. Neither that young anymore either and generally if they havnt established themselves by now as inter county they they are not going to make it. Same goes for Lilis but im sure his father will be anxious to give him another go.
I think Smyth commutes from the UK to play so that rules him out. I agree with the rest although Cahalane is only turning 26 this year...
Off the track a bit but i have taken up a managerial job in offaly and i'm wondering is there any stats men in the laois area who might be available if anyone knows?
Looks like the big guns in Kerry don't have a safety net like they do in Laois...
http://www.hoganstand.com/ArticleForm.aspx?ID=247970