So, the draw has been made - however from the news reports that I have seen I am unsure of who faces who - whether or not the table topper gets Offaly or Wexford.
Won't be decided until May, I believe. Probably after the round-robin series is over, so all teams will be trying to win the group and not throwing a match the get the (possibly) cushy second spot. I must say, I think Leix will be doing well to get out of that group at all - whether second place or top - and on this year's form they certainly wouldn't have.
I see Willie Hyland has retired according to Leinster express website. Best if luck to him. He'll probably be club hurler of the year in 2017 like the last lads to retire (Darren Maher in 2015 and Butch in 2016)
How old is Willie, he's hardly 30 yet is he?
I know it's very easy for us to say but I thought with the better set up in place and decent performances from the hurlers some of these lads would have stayed on longer. You could see how delighted Hyland was after beating Offaly in 2015.
Maybe it's a case of thinking it isn't going to get any better after Cheddar. I do hope we don't start slipping back again after what Cheddar achieved.
Willie is only 28 :o
Yeh, just reading the Leinster there. Says it's hip injuries that are the reason. Pity as he was the only man in our forward line who could catch a ball from our puck out. Haven't seen anything close to him in that regard coming through.
It's one step forward and two steps back.
He might be 28 but he has some amount of hurling done. Between club, colleges and county.
As well as his commitment and contribution on the field one thing that stands out for me with Willie was his role in changing the structures and investment in hurling in Laois. His open letter to the county board was a turning point which brought in Cheddar etc. Although we are not there yet by a long shot, I hope that in future we will look back and see the role he and Cheddar played in improving Laois hurling.
Going to be tough for the hurlers but should easily retain Liam McCarthy status, cant see us beating Offaly should we meet them unfortunately and I hope that I am wrong, maybe its wexfords turn for a shock defeat should we get out of round robin stages, who knows, one can only hope and get out and support the team through thick and thin
Senior hurling panel met for the first time tonight, starting training next Saturday.
Best of luck to all involved
Quote from: Ogie on November 27, 2016, 12:04:48 AM
Senior hurling panel met for the first time tonight, starting training next Saturday.
Best of luck to all involved
Management team completed?
New faces? How many training? Anyone got full panel?
Eamonn Kelly Manager
Conor Gleeson hurling coach
DJ ?? Strength & conditioning
John Taylor on board as one selector
Second selector being brought on board as well
professional set up presented with a hectic schedule this side of xmass
Few new faces including Eoin Fleming, & returning faces including Darren Maher
Quote from: Ogie on November 27, 2016, 05:41:01 PM
Eamonn Kelly Manager
Conor Gleeson hurling coach
DJ ?? Strength & conditioning
John Taylor on board as one selector
Second selector being brought on board as well
professional set up presented with a hectic schedule this side of xmass
Few new faces including Eoin Fleming, & returning faces including Darren Maher
Wouldn't be shocked to see Fleming take the Number 1 jersey.
Also Taylor not a bad choice as a selector.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on November 27, 2016, 10:12:47 PM
Quote from: Ogie on November 27, 2016, 05:41:01 PM
Eamonn Kelly Manager
Conor Gleeson hurling coach
DJ ?? Strength & conditioning
John Taylor on board as one selector
Second selector being brought on board as well
professional set up presented with a hectic schedule this side of xmass
Few new faces including Eoin Fleming, & returning faces including Darren Maher
Wouldn't be shocked to see Fleming take the Number 1 jersey.
Also Taylor not a bad choice as a selector.
Any news on other newcomers? And Eoin Fleming should be given the nod in goal as he is less prone to blunders, and John Taylor is a decent choice as selector, whether you are in Portlaoise or borris in ossory, you could see John Taylor at games so he knows whats there
I see Ollie Moran of Ahane in Limerick part of the back room team this morning. Involved with Limerick u21s and good wealth of experience no doubt. Hopefully the Laois lads can buy into it. There's hardly any chance Joe Fitzpatrick get to involved again with Laois?
Coming in as a coach from what I saw. He comes across as a smart man from what i've seen of him and he was a fine hurler. Just a pity there is no-one in Laois who could come in and do the same job. There must be some link with Kelly.
Owen Coss from Kilcotton confirmed as second selector.
Good addition; very well-respected and liked around the county.
Hopefully Borris/Kilcotton will continue their excellent representation on our county panels.
It's shaping up as a decent backroom team and arguably as good as what Cheddar had. Hopefully the players do buy into it and continue to hurl with the pride in the jersey that Cheddar instilled in them.
Quote from: merman on November 29, 2016, 10:57:33 AM
Owen Coss from Kilcotton confirmed as second selector.
Good addition; very well-respected and liked around the county.
Hopefully Borris/Kilcotton will continue their excellent representation on our county panels.
They need to put muscle in and lose the beer bellies if they are to be proud, no offence
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 11:20:25 AM
Quote from: merman on November 29, 2016, 10:57:33 AM
Owen Coss from Kilcotton confirmed as second selector.
Good addition; very well-respected and liked around the county.
Hopefully Borris/Kilcotton will continue their excellent representation on our county panels.
They need to put muscle in and lose the beer bellies if they are to be proud, no offence
Where did he mention pride?
And whyever would someone take offence at your slagging off amateur players in the off season?
Quote from: Don Draper on November 29, 2016, 11:42:07 AM
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 11:20:25 AM
Quote from: merman on November 29, 2016, 10:57:33 AM
Owen Coss from Kilcotton confirmed as second selector.
Good addition; very well-respected and liked around the county.
Hopefully Borris/Kilcotton will continue their excellent representation on our county panels.
They need to put muscle in and lose the beer bellies if they are to be proud, no offence
Where did he mention pride?
And whyever would someone take offence at your slagging off amateur players in the off season?
Okay then sorry, pick the b/k team give them free jackets and let them get bet by Kerry in the round robin, pride comes nowhere whilst representing your county, b/k are over rated immensely and were walked on by the Dublin champions because they drank solid for a week after winning the cf, 2-3 players top is a fair representation from b/k in my opinion, doesn't make it right but I'm entitled to it
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 03:13:01 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on November 29, 2016, 11:42:07 AM
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 11:20:25 AM
Quote from: merman on November 29, 2016, 10:57:33 AM
Owen Coss from Kilcotton confirmed as second selector.
Good addition; very well-respected and liked around the county.
Hopefully Borris/Kilcotton will continue their excellent representation on our county panels.
They need to put muscle in and lose the beer bellies if they are to be proud, no offence
Where did he mention pride?
And whyever would someone take offence at your slagging off amateur players in the off season?
Okay then sorry, pick the b/k team give them free jackets and let them get bet by Kerry in the round robin, pride comes nowhere whilst representing your county, b/k are over rated immensely and were walked on by the Dublin champions because they drank solid for a week after winning the cf, 2-3 players top is a fair representation from b/k in my opinion, doesn't make it right but I'm entitled to it
You're entitled to your opinion, all Offaly men are.
Quote from: Don Draper on November 29, 2016, 04:04:16 PM
You're entitled to your opinion, all Offaly men are.
Having a difference of opinion is one thing. Calling someone an Offaly man is just pushing it too far.
Quote from: Don Draper on November 29, 2016, 04:04:16 PM
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 03:13:01 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on November 29, 2016, 11:42:07 AM
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 11:20:25 AM
Quote from: merman on November 29, 2016, 10:57:33 AM
Owen Coss from Kilcotton confirmed as second selector.
Good addition; very well-respected and liked around the county.
Hopefully Borris/Kilcotton will continue their excellent representation on our county panels.
They need to put muscle in and lose the beer bellies if they are to be proud, no offence
Where did he mention pride?
And whyever would someone take offence at your slagging off amateur players in the off season?
Okay then sorry, pick the b/k team give them free jackets and let them get bet by Kerry in the round robin, pride comes nowhere whilst representing your county, b/k are over rated immensely and were walked on by the Dublin champions because they drank solid for a week after winning the cf, 2-3 players top is a fair representation from b/k in my opinion, doesn't make it right but I'm entitled to it
You're entitled to your opinion, all Offaly men are.
You could of called me any name under the sun...but calling me an Offaly man is a low blow, you have no heart or soul you monster
Quote from: tcrilly on November 30, 2016, 05:40:16 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on November 29, 2016, 04:04:16 PM
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 03:13:01 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on November 29, 2016, 11:42:07 AM
Quote from: tcrilly on November 29, 2016, 11:20:25 AM
Quote from: merman on November 29, 2016, 10:57:33 AM
Owen Coss from Kilcotton confirmed as second selector.
Good addition; very well-respected and liked around the county.
Hopefully Borris/Kilcotton will continue their excellent representation on our county panels.
They need to put muscle in and lose the beer bellies if they are to be proud, no offence
Where did he mention pride?
And whyever would someone take offence at your slagging off amateur players in the off season?
Okay then sorry, pick the b/k team give them free jackets and let them get bet by Kerry in the round robin, pride comes nowhere whilst representing your county, b/k are over rated immensely and were walked on by the Dublin champions because they drank solid for a week after winning the cf, 2-3 players top is a fair representation from b/k in my opinion, doesn't make it right but I'm entitled to it
You're entitled to your opinion, all Offaly men are.
You could of called me any name under the sun...but calling me an Offaly man is a low blow, you have no heart or soul you monster
You're trying too hard
Any word on how hurlers are goin who are the new faces ?
Quote from: Laoiseabu on December 26, 2016, 06:52:23 PM
Any word on how hurlers are goin who are the new faces ?
I've been meaning to post here for a few days. I've heard really good things about the current setup.
I was going to reply with a thorough post until I saw this abolute bullshit post of yours;
Quote from: Laoiseabu on December 26, 2016, 06:37:33 PM
A lot of our core players are moving on and a lot of new lads that are being tried out are a waste of time if I'm being honest. A few new lads would want to stand up soon and I'm not talkin bout Mickey Mouse Obyrne cup players I'm talkin bout proper county standard MEN!!
Our country hurlers have a really difficult year ahead. Truthfully, they will have a tough couple of years but fair play to any young man who puts themselves forward for our hurling or football panels.
I intend being at every possible O'Byrne/Walsh Cup and Hurling/Football League game. Fair play to any and every young man who will sacrifice themselves for my county.
Any "supporter" who ridicules their effort as a 'waste of time' can f**k off as far as I'm concerned.
I won't be posting on this forum again.
Quote from: merman on December 26, 2016, 11:55:36 PM
Quote from: Laoiseabu on December 26, 2016, 06:52:23 PM
Any word on how hurlers are goin who are the new faces ?
I've been meaning to post here for a few days. I've heard really good things about the current setup.
I was going to reply with a thorough post until I saw this abolute bullshit post of yours;
Quote from: Laoiseabu on December 26, 2016, 06:37:33 PM
A lot of our core players are moving on and a lot of new lads that are being tried out are a waste of time if I'm being honest. A few new lads would want to stand up soon and I'm not talkin bout Mickey Mouse Obyrne cup players I'm talkin bout proper county standard MEN!!
Our country hurlers have a really difficult year ahead. Truthfully, they will have a tough couple of years but fair play to any young man who puts themselves forward for our hurling or football panels.
I intend being at every possible O'Byrne/Walsh Cup and Hurling/Football League game. Fair play to any and every young man who will sacrifice themselves for my county.
Any "supporter" who ridicules their effort as a 'waste of time' can f**k off as far as I'm concerned.
I won't be posting on this forum again.
Merman you always been an informed and insightful poster,I'm surprised that to be frank an idiotic post would cause you to stop posting
I'd urge a rethink
Merman I would consider my post a fact actually I'm talking bout footballers. We have been slowly going backwards over the last couple of years and not have fell into division 3. We let in a cricket score in the league last year which makes me think where are we goin to get a few backs from. Chair Healy wud be good enough but he is hurling. Strong, Quigley, Munnelly, Timmons, Donoher, Meaney , Begley are all moving on and I can't see replacements which will leave us even weaker I'm just stating facts. I'm not making little of young lads representing their county I'm just saying that A lot of them are not up to the mark. The past two years we have been knocked out of qualifiers by Clare and Antrim like ? And Merman the reality is we may get weaker before we get stronger again. And it's not just the county that is struggling clubs are struggling aswell which leads to talks of another topic , amalgamations . Another thing that's a real problem this countries obsession with drink. Like I'm sick of looking at lads coming down to the local field and not being able to train properly because they were out the night before and then they wonder why they don't win county titles. They want all these professional physios professional dietitians strength and conditioning coaches etc but yet they constantly come down to the field after being stuck in the pub all night . Professional my Fuckin Arse
And another thing when things don't work out then who gets the blame, yes the poor manager does and what happens then , he loses his job when it's the players themselves that decide to go on the piss the night before. Maybe they should start looking at themselves for a change. Sure we will just blame the manager like ? A kick up the Arse is what's needed with a lot of lads . You only have a chance to train and play football when your young so why not cop on and make the most of it.
Maybe they should start looking at themselves for a change. Sure we will just blame the manager like ? A kick up the Arse is what's needed with a lot of lads . You only have a chance to train and play football when your young so why not cop on and make the most of it.
[/quote]
Because lads want to have their own craic away from football too at the end of the day its only a game, a lot of lads would rather a social life than a few pieces of silver
Yes Ballyroan abbey that's a fair point but my problem is when lads come down to the field hungover and not able to do a training session ,at the end of the season they then blame the manager for the teams lack of fitness and trophies and the manager then gets the chop
Quote from: Laoiseabu on December 27, 2016, 12:31:16 PM
Yes Ballyroan abbey that's a fair point but my problem is when lads come down to the field hungover and not able to do a training session ,at the end of the season they then blame the manager for the teams lack of fitness and trophies and the manager then gets the chop
Regrade them to junior so, a club either has to reward the most committed players or the most talented because its not usually the same thing
Laoiseabu nobody wants to be listening to your tripe talk.
Merman I'm with Clonadmad, your opinion is valued here.
You mean nobody wants to hear the truth I'm just saying what I'm seeing in my own club in particular . How is it Tripe ?
Quote from: Laoiseabu on December 27, 2016, 04:15:15 PM
You mean nobody wants to hear the truth I'm just saying what I'm seeing in my own club in particular . How is it Tripe ?
There are aspects to what you say are true, drink is a problem in smaller clubs, and lack of numbers in training and the playing guys that dont train etc, then as iv seen countless times the manager gets the blame instead of the fact they were running after guys with their tongue out, representing your county is a huge honor and it certainly is a young mans/ladies game and those who dont take nutrition and conditioning serious on their own part ahould be swiftly reminded there is someone hungrier for success than they are
Quote from: merman on December 26, 2016, 11:55:36 PM
Any "supporter" who ridicules their effort as a 'waste of time' can f**k off as far as I'm concerned.
I won't be posting on this forum again.
Fair fucks to you
Laois' hurling:
Biggest ever win: (47) 1905 Croke Cup Laois 8-23 Louth 0-0
Biggest c'ship win: (30) 1939 Laois 12-8 Meath 4-2
Biggest league win: (28) 1964 Laois 9-8 Wicklow 1-4 & 1973 Laois 8-15 Westmeath 2-5 (also biggest Div1 win)
Biggest Walsh Cup win: (21) 1980 Laois 2-21 Wicklow 0-6
Biggest win v Big3 team: (24) 1925 League Laois 11-0 Cork 3-0
Biggest defeat: (38) 1927 League Laois 2-1 Cork 14-3 & 2008 Laois 0-6 Galway 6-26
Biggest c'ship defeat: (35) 2016 Laois 0-12 Clare 5-32 [2nd 2011 defeat to Cork; 3rd 1898 defeat to Dublin]
Biggest Walsh Cup defeat: (26) 1956 Laois 3-6 Kilkenny 12-5
What sort of panel / team have we for Sunday?
This is not the team but would will make a guess: Rowland, stapleton, mullaney, carroll (abbeyleix), bergin, ciaran mcevoy , paddy whelan, stapleton, P Purcell, picky, J campion, L O connell, king, scully, w. Dunphy
Quote from: beano on January 05, 2017, 12:52:48 PM
This is not the team but would will make a guess: Rowland, stapleton, mullaney, carroll (abbeyleix), bergin, ciaran mcevoy , paddy whelan, stapleton, P Purcell, picky, J campion, L O connell, king, scully, w. Dunphy
Brian Stapleton back?
Ciaran Collier in squad? Conor Phelan is another- is he on panel?
if that is the back 6 for laois then we are heading for the Christy ring.......not one would get near a top 8 inter county side.
with retirements we are lacking big time in defence. yes healy and a few others will return, the lack of proper defenders amongst the youth is a serious worry. could we perhaps try out cha at centre back and build a solid spine. the likes of bergin, mullaney and carroll are not up to senior inter county standard and never will be. if we have little option but to use them for now, it highlights the weakness in our set up.
Ross King chatting about the set up and looking forward to the Walsh Cup.
https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/ross-king-pre-walsh-cup (https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/ross-king-pre-walsh-cup)
Quote from: oneflewoverthecuckoonest on January 05, 2017, 01:37:15 PM
if that is the back 6 for laois then we are heading for the Christy ring.......not one would get near a top 8 inter county side.
with retirements we are lacking big time in defence. yes healy and a few others will return, the lack of proper defenders amongst the youth is a serious worry. could we perhaps try out cha at centre back and build a solid spine. the likes of bergin, mullaney and carroll are not up to senior inter county standard and never will be. if we have little option but to use them for now, it highlights the weakness in our set up.
I think this is a bit harsh on those lads, they are young and have a chance of developing, I remember Joe Fitz never played county minor and didn't become a good senior hurler overnight. We do need experience in defence and I'd imagine Darren Maher Matthew Whelan and Cahir Healy will be there to provide that. Dwayne Palmer is likely to be corner back. I think Tom Delaney should be given a chance this yr in the league to see if he's up to it. Paddy Whelans best position might well be at half back too. we need to find paddy Purcell a good partner in midfield, is Zane Keenan on the panel?. I would totally disagree with moving our best player and best forward to centre back. We need Cha both winning ball and scoring in the half forward line. Picky, Foyle, Scully, King, Campion,and Willie Dunphy are 6 established guys that are all good club hurlers but they need to prove themselves at County level, Laois need them to drive on this year. It will be interesting to see how Liam O Connell gets on this year and whether he will play in defence or attack, personally I would prob play him at half back. Ciaran Collier, Colm Stapleton, John Lennon and Ben Conroy are other useful options if available.
I presume Mark Kavanagh won't be available for a few months yet.
There are a few good young lads coming through but maybe they should be left with the 21s for one year, Aaron Dunphy, Lee Cleere, Robbie Phelan, Stephen Phelan, Conor Phelan, Joe Geaney off the top of my head.
Lads just picked that team to stirr debate plus picked team knowing that lads are college tied and won't play for Laois in Walsh cup.
Quote from: Tobias on January 05, 2017, 03:10:29 PM
Quote from: oneflewoverthecuckoonest on January 05, 2017, 01:37:15 PM
if that is the back 6 for laois then we are heading for the Christy ring.......not one would get near a top 8 inter county side.
with retirements we are lacking big time in defence. yes healy and a few others will return, the lack of proper defenders amongst the youth is a serious worry. could we perhaps try out cha at centre back and build a solid spine. the likes of bergin, mullaney and carroll are not up to senior inter county standard and never will be. if we have little option but to use them for now, it highlights the weakness in our set up.
I think this is a bit harsh on those lads, they are young and have a chance of developing, I remember Joe Fitz never played county minor and didn't become a good senior hurler overnight. We do need experience in defence and I'd imagine Darren Maher Matthew Whelan and Cahir Healy will be there to provide that. Dwayne Palmer is likely to be corner back. I think Tom Delaney should be given a chance this yr in the league to see if he's up to it. Paddy Whelans best position might well be at half back too. we need to find paddy Purcell a good partner in midfield, is Zane Keenan on the panel?. I would totally disagree with moving our best player and best forward to centre back. We need Cha both winning ball and scoring in the half forward line. Picky, Foyle, Scully, King, Campion,and Willie Dunphy are 6 established guys that are all good club hurlers but they need to prove themselves at County level, Laois need them to drive on this year. It will be interesting to see how Liam O Connell gets on this year and whether he will play in defence or attack, personally I would prob play him at half back. Ciaran Collier, Colm Stapleton, John Lennon and Ben Conroy are other useful options if available.
I presume Mark Kavanagh won't be available for a few months yet.
There are a few good young lads coming through but maybe they should be left with the 21s for one year, Aaron Dunphy, Lee Cleere, Robbie Phelan, Stephen Phelan, Conor Phelan, Joe Geaney off the top of my head.
Joe Fitz is a loss, lovely guy and was very dedicated through the years while playing for laois, Aaron Dunphy can only improve and even as he is he can win balls from puckouts against experienced seniors for bk , either way i cannot wait for sunday as these long nights have me bored to death
An interesting selection for Sunday. Fleming in goals and sone ew faces in the backs.
KELLY NAMES TEAM FOR WALSH CUP CLASH
Laois Senior Hurling manager Eamonn Kelly has announced his starting 15 for Sunday's Walsh Cup Round 1 game with NUIG at 2pm in Rathdowney.
1. Eoin Fleming (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
2. Eoin Doyle (Clough Ballacolla)
3. Darren Maher (Clough Ballacolla)
4. Podge Lawlor (Ballinakill)
5. Ryan Mullaney (Castletown)
6. Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
7. Sean Downey (Ballinakill)
8. Paddy Whelan (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
9. Cian Taylor (Portlaoise)
10. Eanna Lyons (Ballyfin)
11. Ben Conroy (Slieve Bloom)
12. PJ Scully (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
13. Willie Dunphy (Clough Ballacolla)
14. Neil Foyle (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
15. Ross King (Rathdowney Errill)
Well, after a dire first 25 minutes, after which they trailed by 0-11 to 0-2, Laois actually played OK. Ben Conroy's goal, after a good run, just before half time, probably laid the foundation, but second half goals from Willie Dunphy and Ross King turned it around. Mind you, NUIG aren't exactly star-studded, so you'd want to be beating them.
For most of the first half, the only Laois player to catch the eye was Paddy Purcell, but once Ryan Mullaney and Leigh Bergin came into it, things improved. In the second half, then, Scully, and King hit form a bit, but Willie Dunphy showed some real good touches. Young Corby had a nightmare in the first half, but was unlucky not to get a goal in the second, while Neil Foyle was way off the pace. Ben Conroy played pretty well, and Sean Downey showed some potential. However, to revert to a sweeper in the second half was a little discouraging.
Yeh agree with most of that, we were way off the pace in first half and lacked direction and any sort of a plan. However after the first goal we changed and suddenly looked like a team and played some decent stuff. The pleasing thing was to see leaders in the team stand up and be counted, Purcell , king, Dunphy and scully along with Mullaney. After a poor first half I thought Eanna Lyons came into it along with Downey. A good days work, lots to improve on in terms of skill and fitness.
Can't fault the character and work rate once we got going. NUIG was filled with Galway and Clare lads and they could hurl. Looked sharp enough and their age profile and ours was about the same. Was impressed with how we grew into it given how the shape of the team is so different these days. Leigh Bergin, Ryan Mullaney, Paddy Purcell, PJ Scully, Roddy King stood up and you can see these lads being the heart of the team for years to come. They are all still really young though as were most of those around them and in reality there are only a few 'big' names to come back in. Eanna Lyons caught some great balls when we were under pressure and looks a great half forward prospect.
Wasn't there today lads but sounds like it was a decent performance in the end and sound like ye were reasonably impressed by what you saw. Brilliant to hear the younger lads did well in the end. No doubt there's talent there. It is only the Walsh Cup and it's early in the year but it would be great to see these lads playing in Croke Park. It would do much for hurling in the county.
Does anyone know for sure who was missing yesterday that is definitely involved this year?
Picky, Cha, Cahir?, Darren Maher, Dwayne Palmer, Mark Kavanagh, Colm Stapleton, Enda Rowland, Matthew Whelan, John Lennon. I'm guessing all of these will be back at some point following colleges or injury. Anyone else? Is Joe Campion back? I am guessing Zane is a no.
I think there is a couple of really tough years coming up and that we will have to be very patient. The team has transformed completely since 2015 and will likely struggle physically against established teams. Plenty of skillful hurlers committing so hopefully they can stay together for a few years to build a platform for the future.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on January 09, 2017, 09:44:38 AM
Does anyone know for sure who was missing yesterday that is definitely involved this year?
Picky, Cha, Cahir?, Darren Maher, Dwayne Palmer, Mark Kavanagh, Colm Stapleton, Enda Rowland, Matthew Whelan, John Lennon. I'm guessing all of these will be back at some point following colleges or injury. Anyone else? Is Joe Campion back? I am guessing Zane is a no.
I think there is a couple of really tough years coming up and that we will have to be very patient. The team has transformed completely since 2015 and will likely struggle physically against established teams. Plenty of skillful hurlers committing so hopefully they can stay together for a few years to build a platform for the future.
Problem is, in those few tough years that we're due, we're asking young hurlers to carry the brunt of it until they mature. By the time they mature, they may very well be sick of the slog and slip off, or have their confidence irretrievably shattered from the experience. We've seen this before sadly.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on January 09, 2017, 09:44:38 AM
Picky, Cha, Cahir?, Darren Maher, Dwayne Palmer, Mark Kavanagh, Colm Stapleton, Enda Rowland, Matthew Whelan, John Lennon. I'm guessing all of these will be back at some point following colleges or injury. Anyone else? Is Joe Campion back? I am guessing Zane is a no.
On the programme Darren Maher was listed to start at full back, and Matthew Whelan was listed in the subs. Neither appeared, but I guess they will be involved. Also listed to start was Cian Taylor, but he didn't appear, either.
Yes, of those that played yesterday, was there anyone over 23 or 24, I wonder?
Those three weren't listed on the programme. Are you saying they've all committed for the year?
Campions decision is unfortunate
I thought Zane might have come back into the fold as he was out lst year. That was the pattern the last few years.
Pity about Joe is right but it's a big undertaking and one that young lads aren't as happy to make anymore. Is the door open for later in the year or are they out completely?
I see where picky was the pick of the bunch for Carlow IT scoring 1-07. Cha chipped in with a few points as well. Rowland, Palmer and Young playing also.
Tadgh Doran is someone I thought would be an addition to the county team. What's the story there if any?
Quote from: redsetanta on January 10, 2017, 09:50:24 AM
I see where picky was the pick of the bunch for Carlow IT scoring 1-07. Cha chipped in with a few points as well. Rowland, Palmer and Young playing also.
Tadgh Doran is someone I thought would be an addition to the county team. What's the story there if any?
Tadgh Doran being overlooked is simply beyond me, solid shot stopper and not as prone to blunders as reilly, no critism to reilly of course as i understand the massive effort they have put in the last few years under cheddar
Just realised my error, it was Tadgh Dowling of Rathdowney/Errill I meant.
Doran is a very good keeper but Fleming is worth his place for now though and I think it will be between him and Rowland for the jersey!
Tadgh rejected the opportunity to join the panel I believe.
Good hurler and I do feel he'd have had something to offer the panel but it's backs we're in desperate need of to be honest...
Quote from: redsetanta on January 11, 2017, 04:01:31 PM
Just realised my error, it was Tadgh Dowling of Rathdowney/Errill I meant.
Doran is a very good keeper but Fleming is worth his place for now though and I think it will be between him and Rowland for the jersey!
Oh now i get yoy, yeah fleming is a solid young keeper, Tadgh Dowling has loads of ability but consistancy is the problem i guess
Quote from: TP Ashe on January 11, 2017, 07:29:39 PM
Tadgh rejected the opportunity to join the panel I believe.
Good hurler and I do feel he'd have had something to offer the panel but it's backs we're in desperate need of to be honest...
Is Cahir Healy still making the commute from London? If so that is dedication hardly matched anywhere in the country, and its hard to see where we will get these backs from, Eric Kileen can only improve as he is a big strong lad for his age, But that mix of youth and experience is what we lack at the moment
Yes and I think it is specifically half backs and corner backs we are in greater need of. Mullaney, Leigh Bergin and Eric Killeen look far more suited to central roles. Would be great to see a few pacy corner men coming through.
It would help the team if the likes of Butch Stapleton could give it one more year to help with the younger team and panel members as well as filling one of the corner positions. He's still young enough.
Quote from: redsetanta on January 12, 2017, 01:04:55 PM
It would help the team if the likes of Butch Stapleton could give it one more year to help with the younger team and panel members as well as filling one of the corner positions. He's still young enough.
He retired due to injury, to be fair to Butch, he gave his all for as long as he could. Hunting nippy corner forwards in the modern era is a young mans game and requires you to be in the whole of your health, anyone in O'Moore Park v Dublin 2 years ago will tell you Butch's time as gamekeeper was up on those knees in the state they were in. He owed us nothing more. Best of luck to him giving a few years to his club now.
I would never question the mans committment to the Laois jersey and he stood up manys a time. The televised league game v Cork a couple of years back showed his metal.
I didn't realise he was that bad with injury. It's just a pity the likes of himself and Willie have had to leave the fold when so many new young lads are coming through.
Quote from: redsetanta on January 12, 2017, 03:06:14 PM
I would never question the mans committment to the Laois jersey and he stood up manys a time. The televised league game v Cork a couple of years back showed his metal.
I didn't realise he was that bad with injury. It's just a pity the likes of himself and Willie have had to leave the fold when so many new young lads are coming through.
Sadly thats the problem we've had over and over in Laois. Blood young lads early, they're whipped, flogged and beaten down by the time the next generation arrive, shuffle off, and the circle starts again.
A bit of a non event in the end but a long time since Laois put up such a high score in a competitive game. Leigh Bergin very good at full back and plenty of good performances all over the field. Looking forward to seeing this team in action next week against the Tribesmen.
Well, yes, DIT's good players (Jack Guiney, Liam Blanchfield) weren't playing, so it was a bit of a 'men against boys' scenario. Mind you, Tommy Doyle, Westmeath's full-back, gave Neil Foyle plenty of it, though Foyle was quick enough to react to a goal-keeping c**k-up to pounce for a goal. Anyway, much better than last week, nearly everyone played well enough, or at least were allowed to shine. Some super points - and a good hand - from Willy Dunphy in the first half. Nice 1-1 from Keating, good to see Matt Whelan back in, and Leigh Bergin played very well at full-back. Might be worth another go there? Probably the unhappiest will be sub-goalie Stephen Kelly, who dropped a few balls, one of which ended up in the net. Hard to come in cold like that, though.
Tommy Doyle is an superb hurler and a big big strong lad he would make beeter county Teams than Westmeath so Foyle probably had his hands full.
Looking forward to the Galway game to see a few of these young lads in action!
Quote from: Unlaoised on January 17, 2017, 11:13:41 AM
Tommy Doyle is an superb hurler and a big big strong lad he would make beeter county Teams than Westmeath so Foyle probably had his hands full.
Looking forward to the Galway game to see a few of these young lads in action!
He is indeed,Callinan struggled with him in the Railway Cup game.
Anyone know how the Laois players did for IT Carlow in the Offaly draw on Sunday?
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on January 17, 2017, 05:13:25 PM
Anyone know how the Laois players did for IT Carlow in the Offaly draw on Sunday?
Heard Rowland was superb in the sticks!Thats all!
I see Cha is not on the panel for the match against Meath. Is he injured? What's the story with Cahir Healy and Darren Maher?
Picky definitely missed the Offaly game, I think I heard Cha did as well.
Healy should be back for the league.
Darren Maher was on the sideline against NUIG, was togged but didn't feature against DIT. Presume he's injured, will be interesting to see if he can shift Leigh Bergin.
Tom Delaney not on the panel for 2017. New business a factor apparently.
Cha played first half and impressed with 1-04. Picky with 6 points and Rowland and Dwayne Palmer playing.
http://www.independent.ie/sport/gaelic-games/hurling/dwyer-shines-brightest-in-eightgoal-epic-35379543.html (http://www.independent.ie/sport/gaelic-games/hurling/dwyer-shines-brightest-in-eightgoal-epic-35379543.html)
Is A Mortimer a young Camross man?
Decent workout from Laois today.
I know Galway were short a few, more than we were to be fair but if we supplement what we have with the likes of Cha, Picky, Lennon and Palmer then we might have cause for some optimism.
Fleming made three stunning saves and must surely hold the starting jersey as things stand.
Leigh Bergin is progressing well at full-back.
Healy was solid but for a really unfortunate error for their goal.
Personally, I'd like Purcell back in midified but he's a great option at centre-back.
Conroy is playing very well.
King, Foyle and Dunphy look sharp and dangerous even though things didn't quite fall for them today.
Lyons, Downey and Corby never stop working and look good additions to the panel.
The Carlow IT lads should give things a boost with the league opener now very much on the horizon.
Quote from: TP Ashe on January 22, 2017, 05:24:55 PM
Decent workout from Laois today.
I know Galway were short a few, more than we were to be fair but if we supplement what we have with the likes of Cha, Picky, Lennon and Palmer then we might have cause for some optimism.
Fleming made three stunning saves and must surely hold the starting jersey as things stand.
Leigh Bergin is progressing well at full-back.
Healy was solid but for a really unfortunate error for their goal.
Personally, I'd like Purcell back in midified but he's a great option at centre-back.
Conroy is playing very well.
King, Foyle and Dunphy look sharp and dangerous even though things didn't quite fall for them today.
Lyons, Downey and Corby never stop working and look good additions to the panel.
The Carlow IT lads should give things a boost with the league opener now very much on the horizon.
Best iv ever seen Fleming hurl, was simply excellent today along with lyons who is very good to catch and win balls, Conroy was lively all day and for january it was a decent game of hurling
The Walsh Cup has been a very worthwhile competition for Laois this year. There are two or three players for sure who got their starts and should keep their place for the league opener. Eoin Fleming in goals is fighting for the no 1 jersey and should retain it. Leigh Bergin has been excellent at full back and the likes of Eanna Lyons, Adrian Corby and others have really stood up for the county. Considering the personnel we have lost over the past 12/18 months it's heartening to see these players come in. Cahir back yesterday and then we have Cha playing brilliant stuff for Carlow IT and we have the rest of the IT contingent to come into the reckoning.
As Kelly said after yesterdays game there are 22 players realistically fighting for the 15 starting places. Competition withing the panel will also drive up the standard.
We all know how important the first two league games will be and particularly the Offaly game under lights in O'Moore Park on the 18th Feb. That should be some battle.
Good win for IT Carlow over DIT last night. Rowland, Palmer, Cha and Picky played full game for them with Picky getting 8 points, 5 from play, and Cha chipping in with 4 points.
Good to see picky back to form, we're going to need him to be on top form this year.
Anyone care to pick our starting 15 for Kerry??
Picky was a phenomenon for Carlow IT last year too but seemed to struggle with the county afterwards. Hopefully he will be back to his best for the year.
My guess at the Kerry 15 -
Fleming
Palmer
Maher
Healy / Lawlor
Mullaney
Whelan
Bergin
Purcell
Downey
Picky
Conroy
Cha
King
Foyle
Willie Dunphy
Good strong bench in terms of forwards. Backs are always the worry with this team.
Fleming/Rowland
Palmer
Bergin
Healy
Mullaney
P Purcell
M Whelan
P Whelan
B Conroy
Picky
Cha
Willie Dunphy
King
Foyle
PJ Scully
While all fine hurlers we could do with a few more physical lads around the team. Hopefully we can make an improvement on last year
Goku's much nearer the mark, I'd say. Forwards will rotate a bit, I'd imagine.
Still struggling for go to puck out option on that half forward line. A curse of ours over the last god knows how long, and even worse now with Willie gone.
If Kelly persists with Leigh Bergin at full back would Darren Maher be ok for one of the corners. He is a tenacious hurler but is full back his 'only' position?
In my opinion centre back has been a problem in the past because as good a hurler as MAtthew is he lacks that bit of pace and agility and can be a bit flat footed at times. Maybe that's the reason Kelly is playing him on the wing.
Conroy seems to be playing well in the middle of the park so he'll probably keep him there. Could Picky do a job at centre back or centre field. We have alot more options in the front six.
Mullaney seems to have cemented a half back position and he is a big physical lad. We need fella's on that line that can win primary possession. That's why Willie Hyland will be such a loss as there is no-one else who can catch a sliotar like him and you need that in a team if you're going anywhere.
Will Kelly dabble with a sweeper at all? Did he play one with Kerry or Offaly?
I would go with
Fleming
Palmer
Bergin
?? Healy was prob our poorest defender the last day,
Mullaney (altho doesn't look fit)
Matt
?? Awful pity Tom Delaney not on board
Paddy Whelan
Ben Conroy
Cha
Paddy Purcell
Picky
King
Foyle
Dunphy
Cahir definitely needs more game time and is a risk in the corner for now - I thought Lawlor did well enough in the Walsh cup.
We got destroyed for pace against Kerry twice last year. Bergin is more mobile and versatile so might be put back out the field for now, maybe even centre back. Darren Maher is a full back or nothing. Mullaney looks unfit but still manages to cover huge ground and can win his own ball. Paddy Purcell is probably not a centre back.
Would not drop Downey, he looks very comfortable at this level and scraps well around the middle. He has pace and skill and mops up ball.
Eanna Lyons is another half forward option. Doesn't score much but has a great hand and is a good scrapper.
That's it really, we need to get the balance right between the more skillful hurlers and the scrappers. Unfortunately we don't have enough hurlers who have both!
Darren Maher retired???
Quote from: HURLING1 on January 28, 2017, 07:26:55 PM
Darren Maher retired???
Just seen that on facebook, saying his heart wasnt in it and he is one of the oldest players on the panel, he was a great servant and ballacolla will be strong this year with himself amd willie there full time
In fairness he didn't always commit these last few years.
He nor committed properly and was never at that true standard.,, we need committed fellas n both codes
Quote from: town1980 on January 29, 2017, 05:07:09 PM
He nor committed properly and was never at that true standard.,, we need committed fellas n both codes
There was nothing wrong with Darren Maher's commitment, to say otherwise is horseshit.
Quote from: town1980 on January 29, 2017, 05:07:09 PM
He nor committed properly and was never at that true standard.,, we need committed fellas n both codes
So nearly ten years with the county isnt commitmeny? And the true standard you speak of could be said of any Laois player but its not for lack of effort from those involved, it is working with what we have available
Can anyone stick up the league & round robin fixtures?
Hurling League Fixtures 2017
Allianz HL Division 1A
Round 1
Saturday 11 February – Dublin v Tipperary, Cork v Clare
Sunday 12 February – Kilkenny v Waterford
Round 2
Saturday 18 February – Cork v Dublin
Sunday 19 February – Clare v Kilkenny, Waterford v Tipperary
Round 3
Saturday 4 March – Dublin v Waterford
Sunday 5 March – Kilkenny v Cork, Tipperary v Clare
Round 4
Saturday 11 March – Tipperary v Kilkenny
Sunday 12 March – Clare v Dublin, Waterford v Cork
Round 5
Sunday 26 March – Clare v Waterford, Cork v Tipperary, Dublin v Kilkenny
Allianz HL Division 1B
Round 1
Saturday 11 February – Kerry v Laois, Offaly v Galway, Wexford v Limerick
Round 2
Saturday 18 February – Laois v Offaly, Limerick v Kerry
Sunday 19 February – Galway v Wexford
Round 3
Saturday 4 March – Limerick v Offaly
Sunday 5 March – Galway v Laois, Wexford v Kerry
Round 4
Saturday 11 March – Laois v Limerick
Sunday 12 March – Kerry v Galway, Offaly v Wexford
Round 5
Sunday 26 March – Kerry v Offaly, Limerick v Galway, Wexford v Laois
I hope things go well between now and 18th February - could define our year!
Could be a rough March if we are beaten by Kerry and Offaly.
There's no 'could' about it. Our season hangs on the first two games. I am confident enough that we have the right man in charge to get us over these hurdles but it will be up to the players on the day.
Yes, the management team do look very competent and are adding freshness. The big question is whether we have enough players that can cut it at this level. We have to be much better than last year and we still essentially have a young inexperienced team.
I see donnacha harnett of mountmellick was conor back for Cork IT and MJ Lawlor of Ballypickas scoring 2 points at full forward for maynooth, havnt seen campion down for lit or scully and bergin for ul though
A draw for Carlow IT yesterday with Picky knocking over the dead balls scoring 9 points (1 from play). Hopefully he brings that accuracy in for the county as we'll need it.
Looked at the highlights of IT Carlows game on FB, Picky had a great game actually, made a number of scores, Cha with two super points
Joe campion hurled at full forward for LIT, PJ Scully still recovering from injury came on late for UL,
Was wondering who the D Hartnett Laois was alright,
Dwyane Palmer corner back for IT Carlow, Aaron Mortimer an unused sub,
Colm Stapleton with Mary I, is Leigh Bergin in college?
I take it that Mark Kavanagh from Rathdowney that's hurling with Carlow IT.
That's Marty Kavanagh from Carlow I'm afraid.
I presume Mark is still injured. Regardless, he'd only be a fresher and thus ineligible for Fitzgibbon.
Ah right.
Minor Challenge in Portlaoise,yesterday
Laois 0-07 Tipperary 5-27
Jaysus.
Quote from: clonadmad on February 05, 2017, 03:58:02 PM
Challenge in UL,yesterday
Laois 0-07 Tipperary 5-27
Oh dear!!
Without the Fitzgibbon lads i assume but what's the point playing Tipp if we're being hammered like that. Won't do one bit for confindence.
You can be guaranteed Tipperary were missing as many with college commitments but your point is valid. The days of laois playing teams like Tipp in challenge games and being competitive with them is well gone. A disaster for morale and confidence within the group.
Strong club teams and midtier Inter-County teams would be much better suited and would enable Laois to compete and getting something tangible out of the games.
Anybody got an idea of the team laois had out?
That was our minors.
Even worse but the point still stands.
Quote from: TP Ashe on February 05, 2017, 05:01:19 PM
That was our minors.
Worse again if it was,Tipp definitely without 5/6 from templemore who are in the Harty cup final and probably without 3/4 from Nenagh who were beaten in the S/f.
In house game yesterday Probables Vs Possibles, Probables line up -
Fleming,
Lawlor
Bergin
Palmer
Mullaney
Purcell
Whelan
Taylor
Conroy
Cha
P Whelan
Picky
roddy
Foyle
Dunphy
Looks harsh on Downey.
I'd have him in ahead of Taylor.
Our defenders will have it tough against a quick Kerry forward line but I'd be hopeful our forwards could cause serious trouble at the other end.
Scully far away Ogie?
Wasn't at it dunno who hurled well but Scully & Downey were on the possibles team, Fleming went off with an eye or facial injury, hopefully be ok for the weekend after it looks like he might retain the no.1 jersey.
For the first time in I don't know how many years, or maybe ever put forward unit is much stronger than our defence, Massive inexperience back there, against the better teams I'd fear for our full back line especially.
Realistically our whole year and probably Kellys reign depends on these first two games.
ogie
you are right by saying that our backs are off the mark but then we are trying out a few newcomers
downey i would not drop he is a very honest player there is plenty of room for scully i do think that we will
beat kerry offaly will be a different ball game
Quote from: honest hurler on February 06, 2017, 02:32:13 PM
ogie
you are right by saying that our backs are off the mark but then we are trying out a few newcomers
downey i would not drop he is a very honest player there is plenty of room for scully i do think that we will
beat kerry offaly will be a different ball game
From what iv seen in the walsh cup i am impressed by eanna lyons work rate, he wont set the scoreboard alight but he has a good work rate amd good under a high ball
Quote from: clonadmad on February 05, 2017, 03:58:02 PM
Minor Challenge in Portlaoise,yesterday
Laois 0-07 Tipperary 5-27
By all accounts, and results, this is quite a weak minor team. Seemingly the U14 and U16 teams coming up after them are much more promising.
While we'd all want to see our best 15 on the field it is good to have some decent options from the bench. Having the likes of Downey and Lyons to come in if needed is what's required nowadays. Most of us would differ on a starting 15 but realistically it's a 18-20 man game and good lads on the bench are important.
We had alotof debutants in the football against Louth and things didn't work out. Maybe a slight bit of caution regarding experience and not throwing too many lads in from the start.
yes i agree we have a few players now to come in and its looking good for all our sake lets get behind our hurlers now and work with what we have bear in mind we still have a couple of top class players out there but some clubs still put themselves first pity
Lyons was very decent underage and has talent ...He will work hard but lads saying he is strong under the high ball??
For his size(he must be 6-2 or more)I think at the moment he is weak enough ...
Is he any relation to the physio Enda Lyons who runs in on the field to attend players the last few years with Laois?
I agree with with that, at the moment he is weak enough, he needs more time to develop properly.
He is a son of Enda Lyons.
See Picky Maher scoring 3.12 today for IT Carlow and PJ Scully coming off bench and getting 1.1. Hopefully firing on all cylinders for Sunday.
Picky has been the scorer in chief for IT Carlow this year. Thats some personal tally though. We're going to need him on the next two weekends.
IT Carlow obviously went for it tonight to outscore Marys'. How did it finish up? Did they top the group?
Quote from: redsetanta on February 07, 2017, 10:18:01 PM
IT Carlow obviously went for it tonight to outscore Marys'. How did it finish up? Did they top the group?
Finished 2nd. They play UL in q final. All up on hoganstand website.
Quote from: Helix on February 07, 2017, 10:33:32 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on February 07, 2017, 10:18:01 PM
IT Carlow obviously went for it tonight to outscore Marys'. How did it finish up? Did they top the group?
Finished 2nd. They play UL in q final. All up on hoganstand website.
They will earn it against UL
Kerry missing 5 or 6 keys players I hear this could be a chance to lay down a marker in this division ...Must win game as is Offaly after it!
I don't think it's about laying down a marker as realistically there are only two games that we can win. Kerry away and Offaly at home. It's hard to think that our interest in the league starts Sunday and finishes the following Saturday evening at 9pm because these are the only games that really matter win or lose.
If we manage to win both we have a very good chance of staying up even though Offaly could get something from their other games as they are capable of that. Our form in the league is brutal outside of the likes of Kerry, Offaly, Antrim, Carlow etc so we will not pick up points anywhere else.
I'd love to be proved wrong but can't see it happening. Win the first two and avoid any big defeats in the event it goes to points difference.
i think we must have belief we can beat kerry and offaly bear in mind when we met galway we gave them a run for there mney i know they were short but we also were short i would be very clear in my thinking that we could get a win also against galway our record against galway is not all that bad in recent years thanks to cheddar so lets get behind the team and move on
Quote from: honest hurler on February 08, 2017, 06:31:53 PM
i think we must have belief we can beat kerry and offaly bear in mind when we met galway we gave them a run for there mney i know they were short but we also were short i would be very clear in my thinking that we could get a win also against galway our record against galway is not all that bad in recent years thanks to cheddar so lets get behind the team and move on
We have no chance of beating a Galway team who are in top 3 in the country.
There are 2 leagues in 1B,our aim should be to beat Kerry and Offaly and avoid automatic relegation.
http://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/sport/234594/preview-young-laois-side-face-difficult-task-in-retaining-division-1b-status.html (http://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/sport/234594/preview-young-laois-side-face-difficult-task-in-retaining-division-1b-status.html)
Cha Starting full forward, Paddy Purcell back in midfield
Not a bad team to face kerry tomorrow
Good starting 15 foyle at 11 has he the pace I would have taught that he was going OK inside downey and Lyon's left out is a dissapointment Taylor I would think will start with Conroy at midfield has plenty of stamina and ability we must try and keep our lines from here now dunphy will benefit from cha and picky Palmer back in will keep a watchful eye in around that corner nice to see Flemming retained as he is a joy to watch even though Rowland is top class if we can organise our backs and our midfielders do as they are doing all up to now we I'll win today
I can't see them starting in those positions. Cha is wasted at full forward so won't be staying there. Be a few changes before throw in.
Seems to be a great first half 13 -4. Hopefully we'll push on again in second half!
Great stuff even without Cha playing so well. Fleming pulled off one brilliant save according to Jack Nolan. Get out of thee with any sort of a win and get ready for Offaly who were very bad today by all accounts.
Gone 2 behind with 5 minutes to go!
Disaster after such a good first half. How is it we can't score goals??
Atrocious result against a Kerry side missing a lot of first choice starters.
Lose to Offaly in next round and we are sure bet to be relegated.
We or lose against Offaly it will be either them or Kerry in a relegation play off.
There's no play off. Team that's bottom goes down.
The inexperience of this current Laois team shone through today. Despite playing very poorly in second half we held a 6 point lead with little over 10 minutes and I think the players thought they had the game won. Kerry got a goal and instead of taking sting out of game, regaining composure, the sliotar was in the back of Laois net again 60 seconds later. After that there was only going to be one winner. I counted at least 15 wides on kerry's part and a number of those were easy chances that went a begging. In truth once Kerry found their rhythm they were by far the better team and totally outhurled Laois.
On the evidence of today it's going to be a steep learning curve this year in the league and we will more than likely be in a relegation play off by the end of it. With most of team under the age of 23 I am optimistic that progress can be made and we will develop with games. The concern is with Galway, Wexford and Limerick to come that heavy defeats in these games could have a detrimental impact on the players confidence going forward. Laois need a blend of experience and youth but with Hyland etc no longer there we are very much lacking in that department. Today's loss was clear evidence of this.
Quote from: Helix on February 12, 2017, 04:10:29 PM
There's no play off. Team that's bottom goes down.
Proper order too
Quote from: Clubber Lang on February 12, 2017, 04:12:45 PM
The inexperience of this current Laois team shone through today. Despite playing very poorly in second half we held a 6 point lead with little over 10 minutes and I think the players thought they had the game won. Kerry got a goal and instead of taking sting out of game, regaining composure, the sliotar was in the back of Laois net again 60 seconds later. After that there was only going to be one winner. I counted at least 15 wides on kerry's part and a number of those were easy chances that went a begging. In truth once Kerry found their rhythm they were by far the better team and totally outhurled Laois.
On the evidence of today it's going to be a steep learning curve this year in the league and we will more than likely be in a relegation play off by the end of it. With most of team under the age of 23 I am optimistic that progress can be made and we will develop with games. The concern is with Galway, Wexford and Limerick to come that heavy defeats in these games could have a detrimental impact on the players confidence going forward. Laois need a blend of experience and youth but with Hyland etc no longer there we are very much lacking in that department. Today's loss was clear evidence of this.
Laois need experienced defenders, we haven't a screed of a one at present.
Went over with a Galway friend of mine today to Tullamore
Offaly are woeful
Whoever loses the Laois v Oy game is going down
my understanding is bottom team in each division gets relegated
http://www.gaa.ie/news/allianz-leagues-condensed-2017
Quote from: clonadmad on February 12, 2017, 05:20:47 PM
Went over with a Galway friend of mine today to Tullamore
Offaly are woeful
Whoever loses the Laois v Oy game is going down
my understanding is bottom team in each division gets relegated
http://www.gaa.ie/news/allianz-leagues-condensed-2017
That is correct, score difference could have a big say though. A win wont keep you up necessarily.
I thought the bottom two teams still played off with the loser automatically down. No playoff between top of 2a and bottom 1b though.
Don what do you mean proper order we certainly haven't backs good enough what we are going to do I don't know no point putting healy at that end of the field foyle was not the problem
Quote from: clonadmad on February 12, 2017, 05:20:47 PM
Went over with a Galway friend of mine today to Tullamore
Offaly are woeful
Whoever loses the Laois v Oy game is going down
my understanding is bottom team in each division gets relegated
http://www.gaa.ie/news/allianz-leagues-condensed-2017
According to PDF at bottom of that page you linked there is still playoff between 5th and 6th in 1B
Quote from: honest hurler on February 12, 2017, 07:25:35 PM
Don what do you mean proper order we certainly haven't backs good enough what we are going to do I don't know no point putting healy at that end of the field foyle was not the problem
The play off with the winners of 2A was unfair. I was delighted last year but that doesn't make it right.
Quote from: Target Man on February 12, 2017, 07:41:53 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 12, 2017, 05:20:47 PM
Went over with a Galway friend of mine today to Tullamore
Offaly are woeful
Whoever loses the Laois v Oy game is going down
my understanding is bottom team in each division gets relegated
http://www.gaa.ie/news/allianz-leagues-condensed-2017
According to PDF at bottom of that page you linked there is still playoff between 5th and 6th in 1B
Pile of shite if there is
If your at the bottom after the 5 games down you go,same goes for promotion
Give that promotion/relegation weekend back to the clubs
It just shows you that smaller counties can't afford the luxury of one of their main men having an off day. When was the last time Cha didn't register a score for the county?
Two teams short of confidence but not short of motivation going into next weekends game. It mightn't be pretty but it should be a right battle. There's a right chance we will be doing it again in a few weeks.
Carlow IT beat UL 4-16 to 0-23.
Don't have a report on the game but It Carlow twitter account saying Rowland made 3 exceptional saves in the first half.
I think they meet Mary Immaculate again in the semi final.
UCC
According to the Wiki page for the 2017 comp they play Mary's. UCC play winners of second quarter today. Although I see elsewhere it is UCC which makes more sense seeing as MAry's and Carlow were in the same group.
I hope the Laois lads bring the winning mentality to O'Moore Park Saturday.
Quote from: redsetanta on February 15, 2017, 02:40:50 PM
Carlow IT beat UL 4-16 to 0-23.
Don't have a report on the game but It Carlow twitter account saying Rowland made 3 exceptional saves in the first half.
I think they meet Mary Immaculate again in the semi final.
I hear it was a firey encounter with Dj carey the Carlow manager boxing on the line and all...Ref was supposed to have got in and played with UL
Here is the team...
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C4tWx-lWAAAx-Xx.jpg:small)
And here are the goals...
https://www.facebook.com/HigherEdGAA/videos/1189918177742927/
Any lads have any news on how training has been going or any info on likely team for Saturday?
Laois Senior Hurling manager Eamonn Kelly has announced his starting 15 for Saturday's Allianz Hurling League Division 1B against Offaly in O'Moore Park.
1. Enda Rowland (St Lazerian's Abbeyleix)
2. Dwane Palmer (Camross)
3. Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
4. Padraig Lawlor (Ballinakill)
5. Cahir Healy (Portlaoise)
6. Matthew Whelan (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
7. Ryan Mullaney (Castletown)
8. Patrick Purcell (Rathdowney Errill)
9. Ben Conroy (Slieve Bloom)
10. Stephen Maher (Clough Ballacolla)
11. Charles Dwyer (Ballinakill)
12. Paddy Whelan (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
13. Willie Dunphy (Clough Ballacolla)
14. Neil Foyle (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
15. Ross King (Rathdowney Errill)
Seriously competitive half back line. Will need to be.
good half back line but i would have great concerns with palmer im my opinion he is too timed and does not take the game by the scruff of the neck he was always a sweeper on cheddars team and forward with camross not up to this position as we saw in kerry it was our inside back line that really let us down sorry for having to be blunt i also think mullaney needs to let that ball off faster this was a factorin kerry hope healy is up for it was not happy coming off field against kerry did not warm down very slow against galway gave away 3 defenite points we can not afford that go to see a good parternaship with conroy at centerfield after all he is one player that has shone out this year and the only one that took on the kerry defence when it mattered conroy is a big asset paudge lawlor is trying well love to see downey in the mix all in all we have enough to beat offally
Cahir is a big game player and a leader, he'll have himself right. We're lacking corner backs, so Palmer will have to step up, simple as that. If Healy was pissed off last weekend, he has an ideal chance to prove that Saturday. No better man. I expect a big big one from Cha.
Quote from: Don Draper on February 17, 2017, 10:02:52 AM
Seriously competitive half back line. Will need to be.
Winning primary possession has been the number one failing of this team in the last couple of years. The Kerry game showed this again. Cahir is a good addition to the middle 8 but MAJOR improvement is needed from the other 7 in the air and on the ground.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on February 17, 2017, 12:34:53 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on February 17, 2017, 10:02:52 AM
Seriously competitive half back line. Will need to be.
Winning primary possession has been the number one failing of this team in the last couple of years. The Kerry game showed this again. Cahir is a good addition to the middle 8 but MAJOR improvement is needed from the other 7 in the air and on the ground.
Yep. I could easily have swapped combatative with competitive. We sorely lack ball winners on either half line. This line should at least compete. Paddy on the half forward line is obviously an attempt to rectify this up there. Picky will need to stick the paw up too.
And if they are not successful with the paw they should be making damned sure that the guy they are marking doesn't make the catch.....
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on February 17, 2017, 01:17:22 PM
And if they are not successful with the paw they should be making damned sure that the guy they are marking doesn't make the catch.....
Damn right.
i agree with putting the paw up only conroy tries his best in the air we miss willie hyland for that now dont get me wrong healy would be my choice all im saying is he has to have men around him not chaps seing cha last week only getting 2 meatre on the line balls and why he was left on them begs belief what are we paying people for when they cant see this and when we are on the subject of trainers do you all know that the manager of the kerry team never hurled in his life so
Full back line is my main worry!
could not agree with u more full back line is our main worry
Full back line one of the poorest I've ever seen,
I'm told it was pre planned that Fleming would hurl against Kerry & Rowland against Offaly but I feel it's very unfair on Fleming he has been outstanding, hasn't put a foot wrong.
Obviously none of ye saw the performance which Dwayne Palmer put in for IT Carlow on John McGrath from Tipp. Have Offaly a forward of that quality inside. I doubt it very much
Quote from: honest hurler on February 17, 2017, 04:28:34 PM
could not agree with u more full back line is our main worry
It's not so long ago that the likes of Cyril Duggan, Bill Maher and Seamus Dooley were battling it out for places on the full back line. They were serious hurlers at the time. Seems like only a few years ago! Or maybe it's just me getting old!
Quote from: mountrath1 on February 17, 2017, 05:36:16 PM
Obviously none of ye saw the performance which Dwayne Palmer put in for IT Carlow on John McGrath from Tipp. Have Offaly a forward of that quality inside. I doubt it very much
I'd imagine that very few here did see it! Fact remains he was never really trusted or deployed (unsure which) by Cheddar to actually pick somebody up! He doesn't really have any record doing so at intercounty level and has been found wanting on a couple of occasions the last few years!
I don't like being critical of anyone, but I think there are questions around the mobility of Mullaney, Healy, Matthew and Lawlor, for the level we are trying to be competitive at. And there are too many of them playing in the same area of the field.
Compare their mobility to that of Paddy Purcell (who we consider a bit of a freak- but most of the top 6/7 counties are packed with guys of his mobility level).
Quote from: mountrath1 on February 17, 2017, 05:36:16 PM
Obviously none of ye saw the performance which Dwayne Palmer put in for IT Carlow on John McGrath from Tipp. Have Offaly a forward of that quality inside. I doubt it very much
Palmer is fine against light fast corner forwards. Of all the full back line he is the least of our worries. Full back has been a problem since Brian Campion retired and Darren Maher's absence is a big blow.
He has pace, a nice touch and will sweep up behind his corner men alright but I don't think young Bergin has the all-round game suited to full back, at least not yet.
I assume they worked on it in training but we need to start scoring goals. We're probably going to concede so without stating the obvious we have to outscore them. We can't rely on points alone. A few bob on Foyle to grab one tomorrow night though I doubt the odds would be great.
look no one wants to be criticle of players but our inside back line needs a good shaken up forget the college its now down to buisness does not matter who yu are if your nt good enough for a position then you must make way foyle was hard done last week good to see him keep his place fleming has done everything right and he must be very dissapointed well thats hurling only 15 can start and i hope we have got our best out tomorrow
Quote from: Ogie on February 17, 2017, 04:56:17 PM
Full back line one of the poorest I've ever seen,
I'm told it was pre planned that Fleming would hurl against Kerry & Rowland against Offaly but I feel it's very unfair on Fleming he has been outstanding, hasn't put a foot wrong.
Neither has Rowland
Fleming was in possession so why change now if he's started the league as number 1
Quote from: Ogie on February 17, 2017, 11:20:52 PM
Fleming was in possession so why change now if he's started the league as number 1
The most important thing is that come championship the best man for the job is in possession. I don't see any other way of deciding it! Does Kelly wait for Fleming to make one mistake and then drop him and give Rowland a run. And repeat?
The fact that Rowland starts this game doesn't erase Fleming's performance v Kerry, which by all accounts was exceptional.
I think you may be looked at this with a slightly biased viewpoint.
And btw I was and am delighted to see Fleming in there- I think he will ultimately end up as Number 1.
Quote from: Ogie on February 17, 2017, 11:20:52 PM
Fleming was in possession so why change now if he's started the league as number 1
I would imagine nobody was in possession. Both are excellent keepers, we've never had it so good in that position. Just hope they can both drive each other on, and at the same time, be content backing up the other.
Rowland does have the ability to knock over a free which could be the difference.
Quote from: redsetanta on February 17, 2017, 11:59:29 PM
Rowland does have the ability to knock over a free which could be the difference.
I would say Fleming scored 0-15/0-20 last year in league and championship from frees for Borris Kilcotton
Fleming is a great lad and a technically sound keeper but Rowland has a far higher ceiling. That's the reason every single underage coach picked him as #1....
I can't see us keeping within 8 of Offaly to be honest...
I think our half-back line will get ripped to shreds.
Fleming is a great lad and a technically sound keeper but Rowland has a far higher ceiling. That's the reason every single underage coach picked him as #1....
I can't see us keeping within 8 of Offaly to be honest...
I think our half-back line will get ripped to shreds.
I don't agree, Offaly are no better than we are and they have a few lads injured. We need to be more consistent and perform for the 70 minutes. I think we have a good chance of winning this. I wouldn't be worried about our half back line, I think it's a strong line in fact.
Quote from: TP Ashe on February 18, 2017, 01:24:20 AM
Fleming is a great lad and a technically sound keeper but Rowland has a far higher ceiling. That's the reason every single underage coach picked him as #1....
I can't see us keeping within 8 of Offaly to be honest...
I think our half-back line will get ripped to shreds.
Thankfully your prediction was way off... Laois 1-26 v 1-20 Offaly. A great result for the lads tonight, a much needed morale boost. Laois were 7pts up when Offaly were reduced to 13 men, so slightly worrying that we didn't have the killer streak to bury them by 10+ pts. Still though, a win over the old enemy is worth it! :)
Quote from: G@@ on February 18, 2017, 08:44:35 PM
Quote from: TP Ashe on February 18, 2017, 01:24:20 AM
Fleming is a great lad and a technically sound keeper but Rowland has a far higher ceiling. That's the reason every single underage coach picked him as #1....
I can't see us keeping within 8 of Offaly to be honest...
I think our half-back line will get ripped to shreds.
Thankfully your prediction was way off... Laois 1-26 v 1-20 Offaly. A great result for the lads tonight, a much needed morale boost. Laois were 7pts up when Offaly were reduced to 13 men, so slightly worrying that we didn't have the killer streak to bury them by 10+ pts. Still though, a win over the old enemy is worth it! :)
Wouldn't been too upset about not running up the scoreboard. We emptied our bench and Cha, Picky, Dwane etc all pulled up the handbrake a bit after a **** of a week tbf. Woulda been fun to bury them but best leave them limp along for fear they'd do something drastic and improve their lot.
We're awful young lads, awful young. They're poor, we're marginally better with a bit more scope to develop but, as has been well flagged here, we lack physicality in the backs and well backs in general.
Anyway, nothing we don't know, a good win all things considered, always nice to beat them. The sending offs were nailed on, horrible strokes both. Our lads gave a response after last weeks defeat and we have some potential to develop. Credit where it's due. Jaysus but if we'd only finished it out last week look at where we'd be st now though.
Special mention for Cian Taylor, the boy has it.
I agree, 'twas a shame we didn't win by more, but you have to remember the referee gave Offaly a whole load of terribly soft frees once he sent their second man off. Also, whenever Offaly clawed it back a bit, Laois were able to tag on another point or two.
Thought Bergin did well enough at full-back, despite the misgivings about him. Nice goal from Foyle, even if he may have taken too many steps, and some good point-taking from Dwyer and Dunphy.
Still and all, these two teams could be back in a relegation game in Tullamore, and if Offaly are a bit stronger, would you fancy Laois then?!
Good win, job done. Poor game. Don't want to be too negative.
But 2 things;
Why didn't Taylor start?
Why did we wait until Offaly had scored 1-2 before abandoning our 2 man Full back line?! What a crazy situation to allow Offaly play a 2 v 2 set up for the first 6-7 minutes.
With offaly down to 13 players, you think we would score a few goals
No, same old story.
We don't win too many games. None in last years league so we should be glad of a rare win.
I thought we were the better team when Offaly had 15 men and we were poor when they had 13. Winning possession is a huge problem for this team and we competed well until we had spare men and went to sleep for the last 15 minutes again. We gave them no space in the first half but allowed them to find men all over the field in the closing stages. Seem to lose focus and lack a killer instinct.
All in all, our forwards were good and lively and scored some great points. Not sure Paddy Whelan is a forward but the other five played well. Paddy Purcell was excellent in the middle. Ben Conroy will grow into the position. Cian Taylor and Sean Downey are very young and light but have serious potential and both really added to the team last night. Cahir and Mullaney were very strong and lifted it when we lost Matthew and Podge Lawlor. Mullaney really seems to have the right temperament for inter county and is very aggressive. Leigh Bergin played brilliantly and seems to be in the right place when he is needed. Will need time in the position too. We are seriously lacking in corner back cover.
While delighted with the win I was worried with how we finished game. Offaly were down to 13 men and still managed two good goal scoring chances in the last ten minutes and Dooley missed few simple frees (looked like he had a goal on his mind taking them). Similar to the Kerry game our intensity and energy levels dropped badly after a strong opening 45/50 minutes. Hopefully as the league progresses this can be improved upon. I know some of our key players were in Fitzgibbon action during week and probably feeling the exertions of 3 games in 7 days but we allowed Offaly almost a route back into that match which would have been unforgivable.
If we end up in a league relegation play-off on scoring difference the lads might look back on this game as a lost opportunity. 8 points up and playing against 13 men for last 20 minutes of game. We really should have be nailing Offaly for a 15 point victory. Top teams show no mercy-look at Galway result against Offaly last week. As mentioned by other posters our failure to create goal scoring chances is another concern. Last night was another prime example of it. We didn't look like adding another goal to our tally in last twenty minutes even with an extra two players on the field. If we are going to challenge later in the year we will need a goal threat. Goals normally win matches and provide teams with momentum.
On a positive note it was great to see our young squad bounce back from last week's disappointing loss. Furthermore, they showed good character after a poor start to the game and they never panicked. Some encouraging signs going forward. Lets hope they can continue on this upward curve and by the time they face Limerick at home hopefully they will be in a position to put up a right challenge.
Ideal scenario
Offaly narrowly beat Kerry
And we stay competitive for the remaining games,we are currently +20 on Kerry
Which would see us into a q/f against Tipp
Ideal?
Offaly will hardly beat Kerry. And whether Laois can be competitive against the rest of the league is a big 'if'!
Quote from: burdizzo on February 19, 2017, 05:13:37 PM
Ideal?
Offaly will hardly beat Kerry. And whether Laois can be competitive against the rest of the league is a big 'if'!
Well if they don't,we will be playing Offaly in a relegation final
Wexford odds on for promotion at this stage,beat ourselves Offaly and Kerry and they go up
Quote from: clonadmad on February 19, 2017, 05:53:46 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on February 19, 2017, 05:13:37 PM
Ideal?
Offaly will hardly beat Kerry. And whether Laois can be competitive against the rest of the league is a big 'if'!
Well if they don't,we will be playing Offaly in a relegation final
Wexford odds on for promotion at this stage,beat ourselves Offaly and Kerry and they go up
They only need to win 2 because of the head to heads.
Maybe they'll throw the one against Laois?!
Quote from: burdizzo on February 19, 2017, 05:13:37 PM
Ideal?
Offaly will hardly beat Kerry. And whether Laois can be competitive against the rest of the league is a big 'if'!
Should Offaly beat Kerry, we would only need to be 'more competitive' than both Kerry and Offaly? That is, not get hammered by 20 points in each of our 3 remaining games. 3 x 10 point losses might be enough to avoid a relegation play off! If Kerry beat Offaly then it will almost certainly be a play off in Tullamore.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on February 19, 2017, 09:49:49 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on February 19, 2017, 05:13:37 PM
Ideal?
Offaly will hardly beat Kerry. And whether Laois can be competitive against the rest of the league is a big 'if'!
Should Offaly beat Kerry, we would only need to be 'more competitive' than both Kerry and Offaly? That is, not get hammered by 20 points in each of our 3 remaining games. 3 x 10 point losses might be enough to avoid a relegation play off! If Kerry beat Offaly then it will almost certainly be a play off in Tullamore.
It is difficult to see Offaly beating Kerry from where I'm standing.
On another note stories are flying around all evening about Laois' celebrations this evening following on from yesterdays win. Interesting behaviour in one of our more "exotic" outposts!
Quote from: burdizzo on February 19, 2017, 08:25:27 PM
Maybe they'll throw the one against Laois?!
Depends how much they dislike Offaly.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 19, 2017, 10:44:44 PM
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on February 19, 2017, 09:49:49 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on February 19, 2017, 05:13:37 PM
Ideal?
Offaly will hardly beat Kerry. And whether Laois can be competitive against the rest of the league is a big 'if'!
Should Offaly beat Kerry, we would only need to be 'more competitive' than both Kerry and Offaly? That is, not get hammered by 20 points in each of our 3 remaining games. 3 x 10 point losses might be enough to avoid a relegation play off! If Kerry beat Offaly then it will almost certainly be a play off in Tullamore.
It is difficult to see Offaly beating Kerry from where I'm standing.
On another note stories are flying around all evening about Laois' celebrations this evening following on from yesterdays win. Interesting behaviour in one of our more "exotic" outposts!
Spit it out ;)
Quote from: Don Draper on February 19, 2017, 11:24:13 PM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 19, 2017, 10:44:44 PM
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on February 19, 2017, 09:49:49 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on February 19, 2017, 05:13:37 PM
Ideal?
Offaly will hardly beat Kerry. And whether Laois can be competitive against the rest of the league is a big 'if'!
Should Offaly beat Kerry, we would only need to be 'more competitive' than both Kerry and Offaly? That is, not get hammered by 20 points in each of our 3 remaining games. 3 x 10 point losses might be enough to avoid a relegation play off! If Kerry beat Offaly then it will almost certainly be a play off in Tullamore.
It is difficult to see Offaly beating Kerry from where I'm standing.
On another note stories are flying around all evening about Laois' celebrations this evening following on from yesterdays win. Interesting behaviour in one of our more "exotic" outposts!
Spit it out ;)
Doesn't really matter where. But it seems like unusual behaviour from players AND management.
I'll take a pm so
Doesn't sound great. Maybe it's 'team bonding'...
we havent a lot to be talking about when we now begrudge our team a little night out after all these players are stuck in every week end while the rest of us are out enjoying ourselves so come on stop this childish talk and give them a little break
Quote from: honest hurler on February 20, 2017, 02:15:17 PM
we havent a lot to be talking about when we now begrudge our team a little night out after all these players are stuck in every week end while the rest of us are out enjoying ourselves so come on stop this childish talk and give them a little break
Agreed.
Quote from: honest hurler on February 20, 2017, 02:15:17 PM
we havent a lot to be talking about when we now begrudge our team a little night out after all these players are stuck in every week end while the rest of us are out enjoying ourselves so come on stop this childish talk and give them a little break
Depends on your perspective etc.
I wasn't referring to a "night out".
So what happened Keyser
Strippers?
Coke?
Dwarf Throwing?
Or lads going for a few pints,which used to be called bonding back in the day
It's a amazing how rumours get started . A few pints all it was actually . People are way too quick too judge . Regarding the match itself it was thoroughly deserved . We can analyse all we want but losing on Saturday would have been catastrophic for this young team . Offalys discipline was poor and they ultimately suffered . Take Dooley out of that team and there in serious bother .
Laois need to cause one major shock in this campaign to avoid a relegation play -off . One of Wexford ,Galway ,Wexford or Limerick are going to have a major off day for this to happen .
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 02:56:11 PM
So what happened Keyser
Strippers?
Coke?
Dwarf Throwing?
Or lads going for a few pints,which used to be called bonding back in the day
Dunno Clonadmad but no doubt you'll commission a committee of some sort to look into.
Haven't you a juvenile academy to busy yourself with?
Quote from: les Antiques on February 20, 2017, 03:04:06 PM
It's a amazing how rumours get started . A few pints all it was actually . People are way too quick too judge . Regarding the match itself it was thoroughly deserved . We can analyse all we want but losing on Saturday would have been catastrophic for this young team . Offalys discipline was poor and they ultimately suffered . Take Dooley out of that team and there in serious bother .
Laois need to cause one major shock in this campaign to avoid a relegation play -off . One of Wexford ,Galway ,Wexford or Limerick are going to have a major off day for this to happen .
They are in serious bother. But I wouldn't agree that Dooley was up to much. I don't think he offers a whole lot from play.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:09:56 PM
Quote from: les Antiques on February 20, 2017, 03:04:06 PM
It's a amazing how rumours get started . A few pints all it was actually . People are way too quick too judge . Regarding the match itself it was thoroughly deserved . We can analyse all we want but losing on Saturday would have been catastrophic for this young team . Offalys discipline was poor and they ultimately suffered . Take Dooley out of that team and there in serious bother .
Laois need to cause one major shock in this campaign to avoid a relegation play -off . One of Wexford ,Galway ,Wexford or Limerick are going to have a major off day for this to happen .
They are in serious bother. But I wouldn't agree that Dooley was up to much. I don't think he offers a whole lot from play.
Hes not the player he was, chronic back problems have seen to that.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:08:35 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 02:56:11 PM
So what happened Keyser
Strippers?
Coke?
Dwarf Throwing?
Or lads going for a few pints,which used to be called bonding back in the day
Dunno Clonadmad but no doubt you'll commission a committee of some sort to look into.
Haven't you a juvenile academy to busy yourself with?
Not like you to make a mountain out of a molehill
Oh wait.......
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 03:24:59 PM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:08:35 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 02:56:11 PM
So what happened Keyser
Strippers?
Coke?
Dwarf Throwing?
Or lads going for a few pints,which used to be called bonding back in the day
Dunno Clonadmad but no doubt you'll commission a committee of some sort to look into.
Haven't you a juvenile academy to busy yourself with?
Not like you to make a mountain out of a molehill
Oh wait.......
You are so wise.
Another one to add the list of statements you can't stand over.
Did ye order all those extra sets of Clonad jerseys yet for all the Raheen hurlers ye have taken under yer wing?
And just to clarify. A night out after two rounds of the league, when the following weekend is free, is more than acceptable and understandable. When that is still going strong 24 hours later, I think that is excessive. But what do I know.
Barring a miracle we will be playing off v Offaly in a couple of months, in Tullamore. I hope this "team bonding" will be enough to see us through that one.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:35:55 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 03:24:59 PM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:08:35 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 02:56:11 PM
So what happened Keyser
Strippers?
Coke?
Dwarf Throwing?
Or lads going for a few pints,which used to be called bonding back in the day
Dunno Clonadmad but no doubt you'll commission a committee of some sort to look into.
Haven't you a juvenile academy to busy yourself with?
Not like you to make a mountain out of a molehill
Oh wait.......
You are so wise.
Another one to add the list of statements you can't stand over.
Did ye order all those extra sets of Clonad jerseys yet for all the Raheen hurlers ye have taken under yer wing?
And just to clarify. A night out after two rounds of the league, when the following weekend is free, is more than acceptable and understandable. When that is still going strong 24 hours later, I think that is excessive. But what do I know.
Barring a miracle we will be playing off v Offaly in a couple of months, in Tullamore. I hope this "team bonding" will be enough to see us through that one.
All Clonad Jerseys washed and ready Keyser
You should put yourself forward the next time the laois position becomes available,you no doubt have all the answers
They are amateur's at the end of the day and if it's sanctioned by management which it was,then good luck to them,a bit of bonding never did any team any harm,god knows the KK lads did enough of it here down through the years.
Did pj scully leave the panel midweek, heard it yesterday
Quote from: Ballyroan Abbey on February 20, 2017, 04:09:12 PM
Did pj scully leave the panel midweek, heard it yesterday
Reported as "taking a short break from the panel".
By the by, I'd hate to see what it'd be like if we lost. Leave them off lads, the proof of the pudding will be in the ating.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:09:56 PM
Quote from: les Antiques on February 20, 2017, 03:04:06 PM
It's a amazing how rumours get started . A few pints all it was actually . People are way too quick too judge . Regarding the match itself it was thoroughly deserved . We can analyse all we want but losing on Saturday would have been catastrophic for this young team . Offalys discipline was poor and they ultimately suffered . Take Dooley out of that team and there in serious bother .
Laois need to cause one major shock in this campaign to avoid a relegation play -off . One of Wexford ,Galway ,Wexford or Limerick are going to have a major off day for this to happen .
They are in serious bother. But I wouldn't agree that Dooley was up to much. I don't think he offers a whole lot from play.
It is amazing the conclusions that can be drawn in February. We are not so good that Offaly and Shane Dooley won't succeed in seeing us relegated this year.... How would he fare against our current corner backs??
Their FF, Oisin Kelly looks a serious operator.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on February 20, 2017, 06:05:58 PM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:09:56 PM
Quote from: les Antiques on February 20, 2017, 03:04:06 PM
It's a amazing how rumours get started . A few pints all it was actually . People are way too quick too judge . Regarding the match itself it was thoroughly deserved . We can analyse all we want but losing on Saturday would have been catastrophic for this young team . Offalys discipline was poor and they ultimately suffered . Take Dooley out of that team and there in serious bother .
Laois need to cause one major shock in this campaign to avoid a relegation play -off . One of Wexford ,Galway ,Wexford or Limerick are going to have a major off day for this to happen .
They are in serious bother. But I wouldn't agree that Dooley was up to much. I don't think he offers a whole lot from play.
It is amazing the conclusions that can be drawn in February. We are not so good that Offaly and Shane Dooley won't succeed in seeing us relegated this year.... How would he fare against our current corner backs??
Their FF, Oisin Kelly looks a serious operator.
Kelly is a serious operator. A much bigger threat than Dooley.
And I agree. I'd be surprised if we don't end up seeing Offaly again in a relegation playoff, and I don't see any reason why the game won't be a 50/50.
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 04:00:52 PM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:35:55 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 03:24:59 PM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 03:08:35 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 02:56:11 PM
So what happened Keyser
Strippers?
Coke?
Dwarf Throwing?
Or lads going for a few pints,which used to be called bonding back in the day
Dunno Clonadmad but no doubt you'll commission a committee of some sort to look into.
Haven't you a juvenile academy to busy yourself with?
Not like you to make a mountain out of a molehill
Oh wait.......
You are so wise.
Another one to add the list of statements you can't stand over.
Did ye order all those extra sets of Clonad jerseys yet for all the Raheen hurlers ye have taken under yer wing?
And just to clarify. A night out after two rounds of the league, when the following weekend is free, is more than acceptable and understandable. When that is still going strong 24 hours later, I think that is excessive. But what do I know.
Barring a miracle we will be playing off v Offaly in a couple of months, in Tullamore. I hope this "team bonding" will be enough to see us through that one.
All Clonad Jerseys washed and ready Keyser
You should put yourself forward the next time the laois position becomes available,you no doubt have all the answers
They are amateur's at the end of the day and if it's sanctioned by management which it was,then good luck to them,a bit of bonding never did any team any harm,god knows the KK lads did enough of it here down through the years.
And no doubt you will be standing for a CB position in the very near future? Your expertise on all matters coaching and transfer related really is wasted preaching to the minions on here.
You are the main to tackle the inactivity of our GDAs and the big bad wolf Portlaoise, not to mention all of the small clubs wasting their time who should be amalgamating.
Go for it, you have my vote.
Sorry Keyser too busy with developing our parish amalgamation in all the underage A grades to run the CB for you.
You are obviously happy with the work being put in by the GDA's etc.....
You will keep us posted if the Laois lads enjoy themselves in future in any "exotic" locations
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 07:54:01 PM
Sorry Keyser too busy with developing our parish amalgamation in all the underage A grades to run the CB for you.
You are obviously happy with the work being put in by the GDA's etc.....
You will keep us posted if the Laois lads enjoy themselves in future in any "exotic" locations
Good luck with that. It's great that you have mellowed from the original position (see below), to embracing a Parish team.
Well done on that.
Quote from: clonadmad on September 23, 2016, 07:34:24 PM
We need to do what's right by our club first,no doubt there are lots of good young hurlers in both Colt and Shanahoe who will wear the Clonad jersey with pride in the coming years
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 20, 2017, 08:07:53 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on February 20, 2017, 07:54:01 PM
Sorry Keyser too busy with developing our parish amalgamation in all the underage A grades to run the CB for you.
You are obviously happy with the work being put in by the GDA's etc.....
You will keep us posted if the Laois lads enjoy themselves in future in any "exotic" locations
Good luck with that. It's great that you have mellowed from the original position (see below), to embracing a Parish team.
Well done on that.
Quote from: clonadmad on September 23, 2016, 07:34:24 PM
We need to do what's right by our club first,no doubt there are lots of good young hurlers in both Colt and Shanahoe who will wear the Clonad jersey with pride in the coming years
And what I said there still holds true
You do realise that Raheen Parish Gaels will be wearing Clonad jerseys?
You need to get up to speed Keyser
What you originally said was that all teams from u8 to u21 would be training in Clonad and wearing Clonad jerseys.
Can you confirm that all teams from u8 to u21 will be wearing Clonad jerseys?
I find this very difficult to believe, as St Fintan's would have been stronger than Clonad at almost all grades almost all of the time.
So, I'll ask again;
Can you confirm that all Raheen Parish Gaels teams from u8 to u21 will be wearing Clonad jerseys? And the Colt, Shanahoe and St Fintan's jersey is not being used by any of them?
Quote from: clonadmad on September 23, 2016, 05:57:06 PM
Colt and Shanahoe to join up with ourselves.
Talks at a very advanced stage with u8's up to u21's hurling in the Jersey,being trained in Clonad and with the club also supplying the mentors across all the age groups,a great boost for the club and also for hurling in the county.
Raheen Parish Gaels will be wearing the Clonad jersey
Not to get further off topic, but a proper Parish amalgamation shouldn't be wearing the jersey of any club, nor should a member of said club be going around boasting that the amalgamation will be wearing our jersey. Problems straight away.
Carryon anyway, I'd hate to get in the way of this ongoing feud.
Lads, start another thread. Ye are boring the arse off the rest of us.
Exactly.
But for the record, the amalgamation will be wear the Clonad jersey at two age groups, the Ballypickas one at two ages, and the St. Fintan's one at two ages.
I understand how it's outside the remit of this thread, but it's hard to listen to lecturing from a poster who lost all credibility within his first 2-3 posts on the Clonad jersey issue.
Keyser you've a bit of an axe to grind with us,that much is very apparent.
Now back to the topic at hand
The reality is that we had the chance to beat the biffo's by 10/12 points on Saturday night but didn't,we were more interested in scoring nice points than going for the jugular and plundering 2/3 more goals.
Work needs to be done on the forwards movement,very little in the form of running off the shoulder.
No axe to grind with Clonad (or any of the teams involved in the amalgamation). Just have a low tolerance for bullshit and spoofers. You were incredibly disrespectful to Park Ratheniska, Colt and Shanahoe within hours of starting to post on here. No time for that. That is the axe I have to grind. Enough of that.
On the NHL, we have taken some horrendous beatings in Salthill over the years. I would be very worried about our next game. Hopefully we don't go into a tailspin that we can't reverse in time for mid April championship start.
We are almost certainly going to be playing Offaly or Kerry on April 1st. They will have had a competitive game the previous Sunday against opposition of a similar level.
We will have had an away fixture with Wexford. Even if Wexford are already guaranteed top spot at that stage (which they will be), and decide to rotate their squad, they could still do a serious job on us. The Davy factor will see anyone getting a chance in that game eager to impress. His Clare teams never exactly took the foot off the gas against us!
The fixture schedule is now stacked slightly in favour of Offaly and Kerry and slightly against us IMO.
Maybe we will be competitive in one or more of the games and be in a good place for the relegation game. Hard to see though.
There's an almighty backlash to come from Galway.
As it stands the only thing to be decided in this division,is who plays in the relegation final
Wexford are promoted and it's up to the 3 Minnows to keep the winning margins down if by some fluke Offaly beat Kerry.
Next year won't be any better in 1B with cork,dublin or Kk down here as well
Good performance from Laois. Very impressed with Cian Taylor when he came on. Plays with alot of confidence and his direct running is great to see. Bar the first few minutes Laois were always the better team. If more of the lads were prepared to do what Taylor does we would score more goals. That was the only disappointment from the game. It would have been a massive boost to hit another couple of goals.
Ross King got on a lot of ball when he moved out around the middle and scored a couple of lovely points. Although he picked up a yellow for it, the clash of the two captains was a bit of a marker for Roddy. Cha, after missing his first one or two efforts had one of those evenings when everything after went over the bar. His effort from under the stand in the first half was probably the best of the lot. Dunphy was a handfull but was getting plenty of it from the corner back and looked like losing it on a couple of occasions. Don't think he got enough from the ref.
Offaly really battled and put it up to us and deserve some credit for staying in the game. If it was ourselves that had two lads sent off i'm not so sure we would have been as close as 6 points and their captain led by example.
I know Offaly are not great at the moment but they are always capable of getting a result when least expected. They took a point off Limerick last year which kept Limerick down so I would not rule them out. If we are in a relegation playoff and had a choice I would nearly rather Kerry. Anyhow plenty of hurling to be done between now and then so lets enjoy the win and not begrudge the players a few jars 2 weeks before they're out again.
Does Kelly watch the games from the stand or why wasn't he on the line on Saturday?
well said
He prefers to operate from the stand, much like rugby managers now do. Mentioned it in his interview.
Think being competitive in the remaining 3 games should be the target than getting hidings like we did in previous years. Though a lack of depth of panel may say otherwise. As a previous poster has outlined Galway will be looking for blood after losing the Wexford game. It's pivotal some plan is in place to keep goal count down.
Definately need some sort of defensive plan and will have to play a sweeper. We're limited with quality backs though.
Good interesting interview with Kelly on Off the ball worth listening to the podcast, forward thinking & impressive man. Spoke about his close friendship with Anthony Foley & spending a year as a 'fly on the wall' with Foley watching the Munster way to advance his management skills.
Quote from: Ogie on February 22, 2017, 02:37:46 PM
Good interesting interview with Kelly on Off the ball worth listening to the podcast, forward thinking & impressive man. Spoke about his close friendship with Anthony Foley & spending a year as a 'fly on the wall' with Foley watching the Munster way to advance his management skills.
I think you mean The GAA Hour. I'd have preferred he not talk so much about Offaly tbh, seemed to toss a bit of fuel on the fire that was unnecessary.
Quote from: redsetanta on February 21, 2017, 10:46:53 PM
Definately need some sort of defensive plan and will have to play a sweeper. We're limited with quality backs though.
Wasn't that not what a lot of posters on this forum were criticising Cheddar for by the end-being too negative and his use of sweepers.
Great boost for the Laois lads winning the Fitzgibbon semi final today. Not sure how Cha played as he didn't get a score. Picky doing his bit again.
Not forgetting Dwane Palmer who would have had his hands full on a very skilful UCC forward line and Enda Rowland who was by all accounts superb again today.
IT Carlow: E Rowland (Laois); D Palmer (Laois), K Hannaffin (Kerry), R Brown (Waterford); J Doyle (Carlow), D Healy (Meath), D O'Hanlon (Tipeprary); K Kelly (Kilkenny), C Dunford (Waterford); C Dwyer (Laois), M Russell (Tipperary), M Kavanagh (Carlow); J Fagan (Waterford), S Maher (Laois), C Bolger (Kilkenny).
Subs: T Nolan (Tipperary) for Dunford (58), C Dunford for Nolan (60), T Nolan for Fagan (66), J Fagan for Kelly (75), M Redmond (Wexford) for Maher (75).
UCC: J Berry (Cork); I Kenny (Waterford), C Spillane (Cork), S Roche (Waterford); S Kennedy (Tipperary), C Gleeson (Waterford), R Cahalane (Cork); J Barron (Waterford), M Breen (Tipperary); M O'Brien (Waterford), T Devine (Waterford), G O'Brien (Waterford); A Cadagon (Cork), A Spillane (Cork), R O'Shea (Cork).
Subs: J Power (Kilkenny) for G O'Brien (h-t), C O'Leary (Cork) for M O'Brien (39), M O'Halloran (Cork) for S Roche (39), C Roche (Waterford) for Spillane (57), M O'Connor (Cork) for Cahalane (67), S Hegarty (Cork) for Power (78).
Great win for CArlow It and brilliant to see lads from Laois, Carlow, Meath and Kerry on that team. Hope they go on and win now.
DJ seems to be getting the best out of them, must be a good motivator ..
Here is a goal that was scored near the end...
https://www.facebook.com/HigherEdGAA/videos/1199088136825931/
Any info on how the panel are shaping up for the weekend?
Are we going with a 'anything less than a 12/15 point defeat is a good result'?
Anything less than a 15 point loss would be progress but I would like to think the players will feel they can get closer to Galway than that...
Conditions might have a big say Sunday and if we had the the breeze that can be strong in Galway in the first half and conceded no goals who knows what might happen.
Best of luck to the lads these are the games you want to be playing in as a hurler!
Quote from: Unlaoised on March 01, 2017, 12:47:57 PM
Best of luck to the lads these are the games you want to be playing in as a hurler!
I'm not sure anyone hurler dreams of playing in the wind tunnel that is Salthill in March
I'm not sure anyone hurler dreams of playing in the wind tunnel that is Salthill in March
[/quote]
😂😂😂
One has to be optimistic. If we could play with a hurricane wind for both halves I'd be happy.
http://www.laoistoday.ie/2017/03/02/massive-blow-laois-hurlers-injuries-mount/
Matthew Whelan (broken thumb)
Podge Lawlor (hamstring)
Conor Phelan (cruciate)
Stephen 'Picky' Maher (broken finger) all definitely out
Willie Dunphy (hamstring)
Cha Dwyer (tonsilitis)
Ben Conroy (pneumonia) are all doubtful.
John Lennon has damaged ankle ligaments
PJ Scully gone from the panel following a litany of injury frustrations.
Can we give them a walkover?
Jesus, what have they been doing since the Offaly game?
Ah jaysus that's very disheartening.
Although I would much rather have them all fit for the end of March if we've to play Offaly or Kerry in a play off. I thought that with a full team we might have given Limerick a game of it next week. Better to get the injured back fit.
Galway must be rubbing the hands.....Roll on the snow that is forecast for Sunday!!!!
Team named. At least Cha, Dunphy and Conroy are named to start. Purcell back to centre back and Lyons and Downey come in. Very bare looking bench though.
Cha now not starting, Aidan Corby to replace him.
Laois' hurling league record v Galway
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d1/statsgaa/Galway%20NHL%202016_zpsvrbbhcjo.png)
Last win: 2003 Laois 3-14 Galway 0-15 in OMP
Last defeat: 2008 Laois 0-6 Galway 6-26 in OMP
Last win in Galway: n/a
Last defeat in Galway: 2006 Laois 0-5 Galway 3-12
Biggest win: 2003 Laois 3-14 Galway 0-15 in OMP
Biggest defeat: 2008 Laois 0-6 Galway 6-26 in OMP *Laois' joint-biggest ever defeat in a competitive match - equalling a league defeat to Cork in 1927
Fair play Gaastats i feel much more confident about today now.
Quote from: redsetanta on March 05, 2017, 09:44:23 AM
Fair play Gaastats i feel much more confident about today now.
Just keeping it real.
An average of 8pts loss every game. :(
Loss 3-31 to 1-11. 26pts, well above the average 8.
Bad injury to Dwayne Palmer by all accounts.
Quote from: G@@ on March 05, 2017, 03:45:03 PM
Loss 3-31 to 1-11. 26pts, well above the average 8.
As good as could be expected. Hope Dwanes injury isn't too bad.
Hard to believe Offaly were beaten by more in football. That's an awful hidin.
Quote from: redsetanta on March 05, 2017, 07:50:01 PM
Hard to believe Offaly were beaten by more in football. That's an awful hidin.
Long may offalys hidings continue, they have no respect for any aspect of laois so I will gladly do onto others
In light of the circumstances we could have lost by alot more. In reality Galway are a Div 1 team and we are Div3.
Injuries are crippling us at the moment but at least our scoring average is still better than Offaly and Kerry in the event that Offaly can beat Kerry. We will need to stay within 6 of Limerick next week though. Will Picky be back for that? I am assuming Cha will but Whelan probably won't make it.
Big job for Kelly to put a positive spin on the Galway result and get the lads up for the Limerick game.
Galway are the second best team in the country,the only ones who put it up to Tipp last year.
On their day,they are well capable of giving any team ranked 4 to 12 a hiding thats the reality....
We need Offaly to beat Kerry to ensure safety that's the bottom line,anything else and we will be playing a relegation final in Tullamore.
26 points is about what I was expecting!
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d1/statsgaa/Limerick%20NHL%202016_zpsnlqgzjfb.png)
Last win: 1995 Laois 1-12 Limerick 0-12 @Gaelic Grounds
Last loss: 2016 Laois 1-12 Limerick 6-29 @Gaelic Grounds
Last win Laois: 1985 Laois 1-12 Limerick 0-12 @Rathdowney
Last loss Laois: 2014 Laois 1-13 Limerick 1-17 @OMP
Biggest win: 1926 Laois 6-1 Limerick 1-2
Biggest loss: 2016 Laois 1-12 Limerick 6-29
Biggest win in Laois: 1927 Laois 5-2 Limerick 2-2 @Portlaoise
Biggest loss in Laois: 1975 Laois 0-7 Limerick 5-14 @OMP
Team for tomorrow evening.
LAOIS
Enda Rowland (Abbeyleix)
Dwane Palmer (Camross)
Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
Cahir Healy (Portlaoise)
Seán Downey (Ballinakill)
Paddy Purcell (Rathdowney Errill)
Ryan Mullaney (Castletown)
Cian Taylor (Portlaoise)
Ben Conroy (Slieve Bloom)
Aaron Dunphy (Borris-Kilcotton)
Cha Dwyer (Ballinakill)
Paddy Whelan (Borris-Kilcotton)
Ross King (Rathdowney-Errill)
Neil Foyle (Borris-Kilcotton)
Willie Dunphy (Clough-Ballacolla)
It's a pity that Maher is still out as he's been flying this year. Good to have Cha back. Hopefully we can give Limerick a good rattle. It would be a serious performance if we could get within 5 or 6 points of them after the hammering they gave us last year.
I think the lads will give a good showing of themselves but i'd expect Limerick to be 8 points or so better.
They rested 9 players against Offaly (or changed 9 players)so alot depends on the team they put out...If its close to the team that hmeered Kerry we could be in for a rough night!
Quote from: Unlaoised on March 10, 2017, 10:43:21 AM
I think the lads will give a good showing of themselves but i'd expect Limerick to be 8 points or so better.
They rested 9 players against Offaly (or changed 9 players)so alot depends on the team they put out...If its close to the team that hmeered Kerry we could be in for a rough night!
They've made a few changes again but still aren't on a settled team. They've good talent there but are struggling to nail down a 15 from their big panel. It'll be possible to rattle them, but we need to hit them early for scores and physicality. Let them get a run on, and it could be a long night again.
We would need to get in for a goal early if possible similar to Offaly game. I think we should be targeting an early goal again and keep pressure on for as long as possible. We have to stay competing and keep their score down as it could make a huge difference at the end of the league.
It should be all about pressure and possession, never giving up on a ball and giving them no space when they have it. Hard to rack up 30 points if there is a man stuck to you when you try to strike the ball. If we don't have the ball there is no point thinking about scoring goals. Realistically, Limerick will win easily but personally would be happy if we can just make it difficult on them.
I wonder would Laois actually be better off getting relegated and build a young team in division two?
Was wondering the same thing myself coming out Burdizzo. To see the players so demoralised in the second half was tough to look at it, at present I don't see the benefits of us being in this Division. Especially when you look at the subs we had listed tonight, they were incredibly young, the age profile is only going to get lower over the next few years
In our last three games we have conceded
20 points (to 13 men)
31 points
33 points
And it was Cheddar who was reading the whole situation wrong by playing a sweeper.
Waterford have used it for past few years, why Laois think 15 on 15 man to man would work is beyond me! Build confidence get experience then you can work with that !
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on March 11, 2017, 11:17:54 PM
Waterford have used it for past few years, why Laois think 15 on 15 man to man would work is beyond me! Build confidence get experience then you can work with that !
In Laois we know better.
The past 14-15 months have seen a huge number of senior players depart the scene.
This, apparently, was the time to transition to 15 on 15.
Against Offaly we even went 2 on 2 in our full back line for the first ten minutes.
We know better.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on March 11, 2017, 11:09:07 PM
In our last three games we have conceded
20 points (to 13 men)
31 points
33 points
And it was Cheddar who was reading the whole situation wrong by playing a sweeper.
Unbelievable concession of scores for definite but just to balance the point regarding Cheddar and sweeper systems... The scoreline when Laois played Limerick last year
(2016) under Cheddar was Limerick 6-29 to Laois 1-12 and that's with one sometimes quite often two sweepers in defence.
No difference really. Point is it doesn't really matter about sweepers and systems, players are simply not good enough and that's not taking from the huge effort they put in. Just not good enough full stop.
Limerick have a serious history of destroying smaller teams (they have always racked up big scores against us even when we played well against other top teams that year) I wouldn't worry about tonight's result, the main thing to work on is development and gaining experience and coming away from these results and work on the areas that let you down!
Laois have done an amazing job so far, the hardest part is maintaining it, hopefully Kerry do likewise
Miles off the pace. Physically on a different planet to a decent Limerick side. Hard to be critical because the lads are trying but we just don't have the personnel. We can talk about the few absentees but that shouldn't even begin to soften the harsh reality here. As a Liam McCarthy team; we're as poor as any team I've ever seen, especially at the back. You could make a case for Cha, Purcell and Rowland, maybe Roddy, as being Liam McCarthy level but after that, i dont think we have any players who'd make that Limerick panel, let alone team.
We'll probably get through the Round Robin but that's our level. It's hard to see us escape a serious hammering in the championship before the end of the summer.
These 6 team divisions are doing us no favours and if there's any prospect of a return to an 8-team League then we need to come out strongly in support of it.
For jaysus sake lads it's March, the second half performance was as gutsy and as committed as you could expect from these lads. Cha and a few more are as good as anyone else. They are building and bonding (although they would want to bond a bit better when it comes to passing a ball to a spare man on the 14 yard line with nobody marking him instead of going for the solo effort) I disagree with the "they are not good enough" repetition and it is unfair on the lads. They can become good enough over the next few months. Maybe a bit more of an authoritative captain, a bit of encouragement on the field. There is no point in crying about it and looking for a lower division, get back on the horse and go out against Galway and put up a fight, and pass the ball to each other, avoid red cards and you will do yourselves proud.
Quote from: ClashAsh on March 11, 2017, 11:21:46 PM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on March 11, 2017, 11:09:07 PM
In our last three games we have conceded
20 points (to 13 men)
31 points
33 points
And it was Cheddar who was reading the whole situation wrong by playing a sweeper.
Unbelievable concession of scores for definite but just to balance the point regarding Cheddar and sweeper systems... The scoreline when Laois played Limerick last year (2016) under Cheddar was Limerick 6-29 to Laois 1-12 and that's with one sometimes quite often two sweepers in defence.
No difference really. Point is it doesn't really matter about sweepers and systems, players are simply not good enough and that's not taking from the huge effort they put in. Just not good enough full stop.
Absolutely accept that Laois shipped hammerings last year with Cheddar at the helm.
But the undoubted progress that was made from 13-15 was built around solidity first.
There was a very vocal element of supporters, delegates and players who were pushing for a more expansive game from the start of last year.
It has not worked. We cannot go toe to toe with these teams at present. There are two options.
1) Go out naively and get hammered before inevitably returning to Division 2A. I don't see any learning in this.
2) Set yourself up to be competitive from the start, reassess after 45-50 mins. Can we afford to go man on man for the last 20 minutes. Yes or no depending on the situation.
We cannot keep conceding like we have over the past 14 months. I don't see any solution but to employ a sweeper v the top 4 in the division.
I would lay a lot of the blame at the management team door for this one. This supposedly great back room team that was assembled leaves much to be desired in my opinion. I really felt sorry for the full back line, even though we conceded over 50 points I thought Healy, Bergin and Palmer were very good for long periods considering the pressure they were under. A blind man could see what Limerick were doing, dragging our half back line all over the place and leaving huge space for their full forward line and runners coming from deep. This is the area where we were destroyed last night. There was 60 yards of space between our full back and half back lines. Our half back line were taken to the cleaners as Hegarty beat us on his own in the first half, I don't know how they left Mullaney on him for so long. Midfield were ok at times but were second best overall. In fairness to our forward line the all had their moments with Cha leading the charge and Aaron Dunphy scoring 4 points off Seamus Hickey on his first start. 1-19 is no bad score against Limerick so it's obvious where the problem was.
Is a sweeper the answer?...for me no it's not. All other top teams have developed a defensive strategy of not conceding goals by funnelling guys from the half forward line and midfield back to help out defensively and close down space. Apart from Tipp kk game last night where 5 goals we're scored, there have been very very few goals scored in the league this year. Laois more than anyone need to adopt this type of defensive system, what went on last night was criminal.
When this system is followed you get your scores from out the field and leave one or two ball winners inside for the ones that won't reach the target i.e
Shane O Donnell and Aaron Shanagher - Clare
Maurice Shanahan - Waterford
Seamie Callanan and John McGrath - Tipp etc etc
We have guys who can take scores from out the field i.e Cha, Purcell, picky and leave Foyle and maybe Willie Dunphy inside. The game is built on a huge work rate and intensity to win the battles out the field. I really hope we are not as naive in Wexford, put in a performance and for God sake not be handing soft goals away. We really missed Mathew last night too, our half back line was very porous, it's such an important line and we need men in there to stand up and drive the team forward.
Quote from: Tobias on March 12, 2017, 03:09:24 PM
I would lay a lot of the blame at the management team door for this one. This supposedly great back room team that was assembled leaves much to be desired in my opinion. I really felt sorry for the full back line, even though we conceded over 50 points I thought Healy, Bergin and Palmer were very good for long periods considering the pressure they were under. A blind man could see what Limerick were doing, dragging our half back line all over the place and leaving huge space for their full forward line and runners coming from deep. This is the area where we were destroyed last night. There was 60 yards of space between our full back and half back lines. Our half back line were taken to the cleaners as Hegarty beat us on his own in the first half, I don't know how they left Mullaney on him for so long. Midfield were ok at times but were second best overall. In fairness to our forward line the all had their moments with Cha leading the charge and Aaron Dunphy scoring 4 points off Seamus Hickey on his first start. 1-19 is no bad score against Limerick so it's obvious where the problem was.
Is a sweeper the answer?...for me no it's not. All other top teams have developed a defensive strategy of not conceding goals by funnelling guys from the half forward line and midfield back to help out defensively and close down space. Apart from Tipp kk game last night where 5 goals we're scored, there have been very very few goals scored in the league this year. Laois more than anyone need to adopt this type of defensive system, what went on last night was criminal.
When this system is followed you get your scores from out the field and leave one or two ball winners inside for the ones that won't reach the target i.e
Shane O Donnell and Aaron Shanagher - Clare
Maurice Shanahan - Waterford
Seamie Callanan and John McGrath - Tipp etc etc
We have guys who can take scores from out the field i.e Cha, Purcell, picky and leave Foyle and maybe Willie Dunphy inside. The game is built on a huge work rate and intensity to win the battles out the field. I really hope we are not as naive in Wexford, put in a performance and for God sake not be handing soft goals away. We really missed Mathew last night too, our half back line was very porous, it's such an important line and we need men in there to stand up and drive the team forward.
A lot of sense talked there.
You are correct in saying that a sweeper might not be the answer. Withdrawing the half forward line would certainly help.
I agree that the management seem to be very naive. The way we started against Offaly was mainly down to the 2 v 2 we were happy to play on our full back line. Madness.
Cheer up Lads,it's not all bad
If Offaly beat Kerry,Laois will play Tipp in a League quarter final.......
No, if Offaly beat Kerry, we'll prob. be playing Kerry in a relegation final. Our score difference will be the worst in the group, I'd imagine.
Kerry at -46
Laois at -53
your probably right,best to be grateful for small mercies then
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 06:24:59 PM
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
Don't agree with this at all. We have relied on lads like Cahir for years to be the difference between a mid table Division 2 side and at least getting exposure to the top table. He is amongst a long line of heroes who have given some respectability to Laois hurling, despite regular poundings. How important is it to clubs like Portlaoise to have lads like Cahir plugging away with the hurling? Without him and his ilk over the years, Laois hurling would be dead. Not at all a waste of talent.
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 06:24:59 PM
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
You'd swear Laois Football was an infinitely more appealing proposition
Quote from: clonadmad on March 12, 2017, 08:13:19 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 06:24:59 PM
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
Y
You'd swear Laois Football was an infinitely more appealing proposition
You must have missed the place were I said as much.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on March 12, 2017, 08:05:39 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 06:24:59 PM
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
Don't agree with this at all. We have relied on lads like Cahir for years to be the difference between a mid table Division 2 side and at least getting exposure to the top table. He is amongst a long line of heroes who have given some respectability to Laois hurling, despite regular poundings. How important is it to clubs like Portlaoise to have lads like Cahir plugging away with the hurling? Without him and his ilk over the years, Laois hurling would be dead. Not at all a waste of talent.
A waste of his football talent. It's right there in the post.
Fairly obvious where his loyalties lie.
I'd say jumping ship when he's needed most wouldnt as much as cross his mind either.
Your football bias is showing
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 06:24:59 PM
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
Cahir is obviously a very committed lad, and a good defender in football, but our best footballing back in 20 years...., not a chance, not even in the top 6. All stars Higgins, Kelly, also Fennelly, McMahon, Kevin Fitz, Darren Rooney all a good distance better. He'd obviously be a serious addition to what is currently a weak panel all the same.
Quote from: clonadmad on March 12, 2017, 09:09:58 PM
Fairly obvious where his loyalties lie.
I'd say jumping ship when he's needed most wouldnt as much as cross his mind either.
Your football bias is showing
I think my history shows my bias is with hurling.
Quote from: Cruella De Vil on March 12, 2017, 10:17:15 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 06:24:59 PM
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
Cahir is obviously a very committed lad, and a good defender in football, but our best footballing back in 20 years...., not a chance, not even in the top 6. All stars Higgins, Kelly, also Fennelly, McMahon, Kevin Fitz, Darren Rooney all a good distance better. He'd obviously be a serious addition to what is currently a weak panel all the same.
A silly argument, but theres no way any of the last 4 would even consider themselves a better defender than Cahir. I'll give you Joe and Tom as equals or marginally better, but both benefited from playing with better players and manager at their peak.
We're moving away from my argument though, Cahir has given dedicated commitment to the hurlers for a few years now, no one would begrudge him giving a few to the football before it gets too late.
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 10:21:25 PM
Quote from: Cruella De Vil on March 12, 2017, 10:17:15 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 06:24:59 PM
I have massive time for Cahir Healy, and I realise he loves the hurling, but at this point its becoming like a waste of talent seeing him marooned like this. Our best footballing back in 20 years or so, is shipping 40 point beatings while hurling. You've done enough Cahir, go off and give the football a few years. No one will begrudge you it. I realise its not all sunshine over there either, but at the same time, go on.
As for our hurling, and where we go from here. God only knows. Maybe the brains calling for Cheddar to leave can tell us.
Cahir is obviously a very committed lad, and a good defender in football, but our best footballing back in 20 years...., not a chance, not even in the top 6. All stars Higgins, Kelly, also Fennelly, McMahon, Kevin Fitz, Darren Rooney all a good distance better. He'd obviously be a serious addition to what is currently a weak panel all the same.
A silly argument, but theres no way any of the last 4 would even consider themselves a better defender than Cahir. I'll give you Joe and Tom as equals or marginally better, but both benefited from playing with better players and manager at their peak.
We're moving away from my argument though, Cahir has given dedicated commitment to the hurlers for a few years now, no one would begrudge him giving a few to the football before it gets too late.
Not silly don, just completely disagree. Joe, Tom & Fennelly were arguably 3 of the best in their positions in the country, no way was/is cahir in that league. Different debate for different thread, don't mean to derail. But silly, No.
In fairness I thought we worked and scored some great points but the difference in first touch and catching the ball was evident. One passage of play summed it up when either Conroy or Taylor (could be wrong) was through on goal but failed to catch the sliotar. 10 points in it at the time and instead of having it down to 7 Limerick went up the field and put 13between us. That was the end of it really. Lads tried hard and for patches we did ok but as someone else already said we had no impact from the bench and some of the lads on the pitch weren't up to it on the night. We have 3 or 4 lads that might improve things but that's where we're at right now. It would be an achievement to be able to play 70 minutes againt the 'tier 2' teams and not ship a 20 plus defeat. Both Offaly and to a lessor extend Kerry are not getting the same hammerings as we are and yet we'd fancy our chances against them.
At least they battled until the end.
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 10:18:16 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on March 12, 2017, 09:09:58 PM
Fairly obvious where his loyalties lie.
I'd say jumping ship when he's needed most wouldnt as much as cross his mind either.
Your football bias is showing
I think my history shows my bias is with hurling.
And yet your telling someone we desperately need to jump ship to football?
Your completely wrong in this instance.
Quote from: clonadmad on March 13, 2017, 11:26:24 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on March 12, 2017, 10:18:16 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on March 12, 2017, 09:09:58 PM
Fairly obvious where his loyalties lie.
I'd say jumping ship when he's needed most wouldnt as much as cross his mind either.
Your football bias is showing
I think my history shows my bias is with hurling.
And yet your telling someone we desperately need to jump ship to football?
Your completely wrong in this instance.
Not at all, merely saying no one would begrudge him if he did. He may love the Hurling more but he's far better footballer and at this stage of his career would be as well off there. No need to be so tetchy over it, it's merely an opinion. I doubt he'll read this and make a decision accordingly. There's no right or wrong.
I would have to agree with Don regarding Cahir Healy, he's a very good hurler but he really ooze's class as a footballer.
For his own sake I hope he gives the football another go, it's a shame to see talent like he has go to waste...
When we need stability and all hands on deck
Ye are suggesting that Healy jumps ship
There's bound to be another few decent soccer and football prospects on the panel,maybe they should leave too.
Some small case could be made if the footballers were flying,but they will be lucky if they aren't Div 4 bound.
It's no wonder we are,where we are and never will be any different.
Quote from: clonadmad on March 14, 2017, 10:24:26 AM
When we need stability and all hands on deck
Ye are suggesting that Healy jumps ship
There's bound to be another few decent soccer and football prospects on the panel,maybe they should leave too.
Some small case could be made if the footballers were flying,but they will be lucky if they aren't Div 4 bound.
It's no wonder we are,where we are and never will be any different.
Its a different situation to a soccer player or rugby, Cahir is a different beast to anyone else. And if any hurler got a chance to make a shot of it at professional soccer or football, best of luck to them too.
The reason we are where we are, has f**king nothing to do with Cahir Healy.
Let's be realistic. Cahir has gone above and beyond to stay playing inter-county and his first love is hurling. I'm thankful of the commitment he continues to show to the county hurlers. We have an exceptionally young, inexperienced squad and having a leader/experienced player like Cahir there is crucial to their development. Cahir could easily have walked away/returned to football when 7/8 other more established senior players left the panel for a number of different reasons at the end of the 15' season. He might never win anything playing with the Laois hurlers but what he will contribute may help pave the away for more successful Laois teams of the future. I've no doubt that the young lads on the Laois hurling panel are appreciative/learning a lot from the example being set by Cahir and from having him on the panel.
I only was able to watch the game afterwards on TV (knowing the score) but it would appear to me that we were constantly asking our defense to go man to man. Limerick, intelligently left huge space between the full forward and half forward line. This meant that every time one of their forwards beat his opponent there was automatically an over-lap created and the full-back line left completely exposed. It was incredible how easily Limerick created their goal chances and we need to seriously readdress this failing before the championship commences. We seemed to have learned nothing from the first day when Kerry rifled two goals into the Laois net in a minute with 10 minutes to play. We were overly exposed in the back-line then and we continue to be now. We need to be able to fill that space between the half back line and full back line so that if a defender is beaten that he has adequate support there to protect the goal. While it was a walloping in the end there were moments of positivity. Should have reduced the Limerick lead to 7 points in second half with glorious goal chance spurned and we finished the game with 1-19. I do think our forward line has the capability of winning games against teams of a similar standard to ourselves. If we can provide our defense with more protection and have our half-back drop back a little deeper there is no reason why we cannot still avoid relegation and perhaps give Wexford a rattle in our final league game. They could possibly rotate their team for the Laois game now that they are assured of promotion. I would like to see Laois target this game and prove to themselves and us supporters that they are capable of competing at this level.
Can we not play Paddy Purcell in a Tadgh De Burca type role? He is excellent on the ball, great in the air and can carry the ball through tackles. Surely that would reduce the number of goal chances. Perhaps when Whelan is back we can try this. It worked v Westmeath in relegation game last year very well.
We definately need an extra man in there between the two back lines.
After being at the game and looking back on it on eirsport just now Its baffeling how much space we are leaving in the backs going man for man is not owrking against these Hurling super powers and something must be brought in to stop them shipping scores.
Is there any video analysis or stats being done how did we not learn one thing from the Galway game ...I know we have people in positions in football and hurling to provide this information but it looks like to me the information is not being used or it's not been transfered correctly ...
Glaring and so obvious against Galway where the space was and it wasn't corrected one bit against Limerick!
Lots of talk that there will be an 8 team Division 1 next year. That would suit us better.
Yep we'd only get one hiding per league campaign then as opposed to 3 at the minute.
This 8 team proposal may not come to pass when 1a is so competitive,5 of the 6 teams this year could be relegated before the last round of games.
Ok we're taking some huge beatings which is not ideal however we are playing teams of a higher standard as well as playing teams similar to our level. We have the best of both worlds. Considering where we are at the moment there is merit for having us in a group that would probably contain the Div 2a teams however if we are not good enough that is where we will end up. At least at the moment we have something to fight for which is to stay in Div 1b.
Quote from: redsetanta on March 14, 2017, 04:38:26 PM
Ok we're taking some huge beatings which is not ideal however we are playing teams of a higher standard as well as playing teams similar to our level. We have the best of both worlds. Considering where we are at the moment there is merit for having us in a group that would probably contain the Div 2a teams however if we are not good enough that is where we will end up. At least at the moment we have something to fight for which is to stay in Div 1b.
I am not at all convinced we would have it all our own way in Div 2 or a second tier Div 1 including Kerry, Carlow, Meath, Westmeath, Antrim etc. They are closer to our standard than we are to Div 1a teams. The problem is that if there isn't 1-2 other teams such as maybe Offaly / Wexford, then the gap will just widen to the top tier.
The problem is, blueandwhite, that if it contains Offaly and one other, the likelyhood even with 2 up and 2 down is that it will be the same teams every year. It won't be Laois or Carlow going up. Untill serious effort is put into these counties nothing is going to change any time soon!
Quote from: SpeculativeEffort on March 14, 2017, 03:42:17 PM
Can we not play Paddy Purcell in a Tadgh De Burca type role? He is excellent on the ball, great in the air and can carry the ball through tackles. Surely that would reduce the number of goal chances. Perhaps when Whelan is back we can try this. It worked v Westmeath in relegation game last year very well.
We need this.
But many around the county (some in fairly lofty positions) wanted Cheddar gone because he wanted to continue with this.
At the very least we need to be pragmatic in our match ups and our defensive shape. It looks like we are just prepared to follow our men wherever they go. Crazy for this level.
The current set up
should be perfect for us.
There will always be at least two teams at our level and 2 more we should be able to be reasonably competitive with, plus a very strong side.
We will not make progress in Div 2A or in an 8 team Division 2.
As alluded to earlier, we have shipped heavy beatings with one and even two sweepers in the past.
Our wing forwards and midfielders need to drop deeper, and work-rate/tackling from wing forwards and midfield need to be upped massively. This would help stop our half backs being dragged those crucial 20/30 metres up he field. Also, on the Limerick puck outs our half backs were chasing Limerick lads (often on dummy runs) across and around the field. If the midfield positioning was a bit better and half forwards were back a bit to congest the space, the half back line could hold their positions on opposition puck outs.
We seem to be way too nice too, hardly got a shoulder on to a Limerick runner all game. Not enough defenders that could be described as uncompromising. Leigh Bergin is a nice hurler but not strong enough in the air or aggressive enough in the tackle for an inter count 3 or 6, at least not yet. Paddy Purcell for me is not a natural defender either, Dwayne Palmer often plays as forward with his club, a lovely hurler and like Paddy good in the sweeper role. Sean Downey another light young lad starting out. It would be easier for the likes of Sean Downey and Leigh Bergin to learn the ropes if players like Tom Delaney, Darren Maher, Gearoid Burke were around, but we have who we have I suppose. Hopefully Mathew will be back soon.
I did find a bit strange that manager and selectors were not down on the sideline again, especially when we were in such trouble. I understand the logic that it gives a better view, but at the same time, nothing seemed to be getting down to address way space was opening up in front of our full back line.
On a positive note, most of forwards did pretty well, Willie Dunphy had one of his best matches for Laois and Aaron Dunphy showed some sweet striking.
Tom Delaney was there with subs so might be involved this year.
Quote from: Home Boys Home on March 14, 2017, 07:26:24 PM
As alluded to earlier, we have shipped heavy beatings with one and even two sweepers in the past.
Our wing forwards and midfielders need to drop deeper, and work-rate/tackling from wing forwards and midfield need to be upped massively. This would help stop our half backs being dragged those crucial 20/30 metres up he field. Also, on the Limerick puck outs our half backs were chasing Limerick lads (often on dummy runs) across and around the field. If the midfield positioning was a bit better and half forwards were back a bit to congest the space, the half back line could hold their positions on opposition puck outs.
We seem to be way too nice too, hardly got a shoulder on to a Limerick runner all game. Not enough defenders that could be described as uncompromising. Leigh Bergin is a nice hurler but not strong enough in the air or aggressive enough in the tackle for an inter count 3 or 6, at least not yet. Paddy Purcell for me is not a natural defender either, Dwayne Palmer often plays as forward with his club, a lovely hurler and like Paddy good in the sweeper role. Sean Downey another light young lad starting out. It would be easier for the likes of Sean Downey and Leigh Bergin to learn the ropes if players like Tom Delaney, Darren Maher, Gearoid Burke were around, but we have who we have I suppose. Hopefully Mathew will be back soon.
I did find a bit strange that manager and selectors were not down on the sideline again, especially when we were in such trouble. I understand the logic that it gives a better view, but at the same time, nothing seemed to be getting down to address way space was opening up in front of our full back line.
On a positive note, most of forwards did pretty well, Willie Dunphy had one of his best matches for Laois and Aaron Dunphy showed some sweet striking.
I agree with alot of what you are saying, BUT!
The 13/14/15 team was making progress towards being able to play without a sweeper, but that team is gone. Unfortunately.7
This team needs someone like Purcell or Palmer available to intercept and interrupt dangerous situations, as well as being available to take passes and clear the ball. I know it's not perfect and there will be beatings, but this is a particularly young and limited team and I think they need it.
Pulling out our half forward line alone will not be enough just yet, in my opinion.
I could see us still struggling to work ball out from defence, and instead clearing ball after ball to an unmarked opposition half back line!
Quote from: redsetanta on March 14, 2017, 08:41:39 PM
Tom Delaney was there with subs so might be involved this year.
A serious addition to have back after the serious knee injury he had. Any word on the injury list getting better for next game. Playing for pride and to build a bit of a positive platform for the round robin series.
Picky was there aswell. Whats the problem with him?
Quote from: redsetanta on March 14, 2017, 11:32:50 PM
Picky was there aswell. Whats the problem with him?
Broken hand/finger.
I wouldn't be risking lads this weekend if they are not 100% fit. Can't see Wexford taking their foot off the pedal with Davy at the helm so we need everyone fit for what will be a relegation game against Kerry or Offaly.
Does the 1B relegated team still play off against the 2A winner? I thought that was changed, or maybe not in yet.
Offaly should win, which suits us obviously if we beat Wex and if we don't, then likelihood is we'll be propping up the table - whether on head-2-head or points (?) Known Davy's form he will continue to keep current crop of players on high intensity and therefore not rest many if any, despite QF. That means a major, major challenge on Sunday for Laois
Quote from: CluainABU on March 24, 2017, 01:43:12 PM
Does the 1B relegated team still play off against the 2A winner? I thought that was changed, or maybe not in yet.
No, not this year.
Allianz HL 1B
Wexford 4 4 0 0 25 8
Galway 4 3 0 1 63 6
Limerick 4 3 0 1 52 6
Kerry 4 1 0 3 -46 2
Laois 4 1 0 3 -53 2
Offaly 4 0 0 4 -41 0
If we're being honest here, the likelihood is that we lose to Wexford meaning it's either Offaly or Kerry in the play off. A point is enough to keep Kerry clear but the only way Offaly can avoid the play off is by beating Kerry and if they do that it will be Laois v Kerry as Offaly have the best scoring difference. Would a Laois v Kerry decider be in Portlaoise seeing as the league game was in Kerry.
Team for Sunday
LAOIS TEAM IN FULL:
1. Eoin Fleming (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
2. Lee Cleere (Clough Ballacolla)
3. Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
4. Dwane Palmer (Camross)
5. Cahir Healy (Portlaoise)
6. Ryan Mullaney (Castletown)
7. Sean Downey (Ballinakill)
8. Ross King (Rathdowney Errill)
9. Patrick Purcell (Rathdowney Errill)
10. Cian Taylor (Portlaoise)
11. Charles Dwyer (Ballinakill)
12. Ben Conroy (Slieve Bloom)
13. Willie Dunphy (Clough Ballacolla)
14. Neil Foyle (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
15. Aaron Dunphy (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
At the end of the day we have our limitations but the lads will still give it everything. There are some really good, young hurlers there and every game gives them more experience. They might as well go for it tomorrow and who knows. Maybe Wexfords second string are not so hot (that's if Fitzy rests lads)
Agreed @redsetanta - we have a crop of good young hurlers, which through 1 reason or another are getting great experience. It's not easy to take those heavy defeats, but they've mainly come through intermittent periods in games where we have shipped a good few scores. On the flip side, there have been periods in those games where we have held our own and maybe should have capitalised more on possession.
May have been a little bit of naivety in our play at times, as previously mentioned, trying to match some of these teams man-for-man. If it clicks and it's a big "if" granted, but if it clicks and we're a bit more ruthless, it's not too late to make a statement and put Wex away as while I'm not so sure Davy will rest players (I suspect he'll start strong with a plan to swap players out early in second period), those players may have one eye on the QFs and may not be up for a battle.
Quote from: redsetanta on March 24, 2017, 02:37:44 PM
Team for Sunday
LAOIS TEAM IN FULL:
1. Eoin Fleming (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
2. Lee Cleere (Clough Ballacolla)
3. Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
4. Dwane Palmer (Camross)
5. Cahir Healy (Portlaoise)
6. Ryan Mullaney (Castletown)
7. Sean Downey (Ballinakill)
8. Ross King (Rathdowney Errill)
9. Patrick Purcell (Rathdowney Errill)
10. Cian Taylor (Portlaoise)
11. Charles Dwyer (Ballinakill)
12. Ben Conroy (Slieve Bloom)
13. Willie Dunphy (Clough Ballacolla)
14. Neil Foyle (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
15. Aaron Dunphy (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
At the end of the day we have our limitations but the lads will still give it everything. There are some really good, young hurlers there and every game gives them more experience. They might as well go for it tomorrow and who knows. Maybe Wexfords second string are not so hot (that's if Fitzy rests lads)
Very very young team and will probably struggle physically against a much more experienced Wexford. If those lads can be kept together for a few years their day will come. Hammerings won't help with self belief though so hopefully they can come out of this with some confidence ahead of a very important relegation playoff (probably). Defensively we will have to stay tight and not let them run through us.
At this stage im beginning to think we should drop to division 2 and Christy Ring and just rebuild, from the bottom up. I wouldn't be up for just dropping down without a proper plan to rebuild though. We need to get in a good hurling director, maybe Critchley, or Cheddar, and get the underage coaching and structures up to scratch and go from there. No one wants to hear that and i dont want to be saying it but we are well behind in every department. We are 10 years behind other counties in our practices, coaching standards and schools coaching, and weve lost an awful lot of good experienced players over the last 2/3 years and its hurt us. And lets face it we weren't world beaters 2/3 years ago either. Conceding 6-31 to Limerick is just staggering! And psychologically demoralising.
Dont jump down my throat here lads, explain if you think theres a better way or how this current bunch are going to change dramatically over the next few years staying where they are?
I quite agree, and suggested as much after the Limerick hiding. Big beatings like that will only put young lads off, and they'll be gone by the time they're 25 themselves. Hopefully all this talk of restructuring the league into eight-team divisions is true.
Quote from: finbar o tool on March 26, 2017, 12:41:49 AM
At this stage im beginning to think we should drop to division 2 and Christy Ring and just rebuild, from the bottom up. I wouldn't be up for just dropping down without a proper plan to rebuild though. We need to get in a good hurling director, maybe Critchley, or Cheddar, and get the underage coaching and structures up to scratch and go from there. No one wants to hear that and i dont want to be saying it but we are well behind in every department. We are 10 years behind other counties in our practices, coaching standards and schools coaching, and weve lost an awful lot of good experienced players over the last 2/3 years and its hurt us. And lets face it we weren't world beaters 2/3 years ago either. Conceding 6-31 to Limerick is just staggering! And psychologically demoralising.
Dont jump down my throat here lads, explain if you think theres a better way or how this current bunch are going to change dramatically over the next few years staying where they are?
Staggering.
We were very competitive in the league 2/3 years ago.
Are you sure Cheddar would be up to the job?
I know what you're digging at there Keyser, i know you wouldn't genuinely be asking that as you're one of Cheddars biggest fans! But yes, once hes not on the sideline of our senior intercounty team i have great time for him! And Critchley would probably serve us better on the front line, coaching kids!
Quote from: Keyser Söze on March 26, 2017, 10:04:47 AM
Quote from: finbar o tool on March 26, 2017, 12:41:49 AM
At this stage im beginning to think we should drop to division 2 and Christy Ring and just rebuild, from the bottom up. I wouldn't be up for just dropping down without a proper plan to rebuild though. We need to get in a good hurling director, maybe Critchley, or Cheddar, and get the underage coaching and structures up to scratch and go from there. No one wants to hear that and i dont want to be saying it but we are well behind in every department. We are 10 years behind other counties in our practices, coaching standards and schools coaching, and weve lost an awful lot of good experienced players over the last 2/3 years and its hurt us. And lets face it we weren't world beaters 2/3 years ago either. Conceding 6-31 to Limerick is just staggering! And psychologically demoralising.
Dont jump down my throat here lads, explain if you think theres a better way or how this current bunch are going to change dramatically over the next few years staying where they are?
Staggering.
We were very competitive in the league 2/3 years ago.
Are you sure Cheddar would be up to the job?
I read it last night, had a little chuckle and decided to ignore the f**ker.
f**ker? Nice! True colours showing there Don!
Come on Don no need for it.
Quote from: redsetanta on March 26, 2017, 12:55:44 PM
Come on Don no need for it.
I disagree.
Considering that this poster was more or less telling us that Cheddar was holding us back.
Considering that Cheddar brought us back to Division 1 and kept us there for 3 years, being extremely competitive for 2 of those 3 years.
Now, less than 12 months later, he proposes that we drop down voluntarily to Division 2.
On top of this, he suggests that Cheddar might come back in and oversee hurling in the county.
I'd rather play "negatively" and be competitive in Division 1B than yo-yo up and down between 2A and 1B forever more.
Don and Keyser, 2 of the finest keyboard warriors ive ever seen! When are ye going to understand people can have different opinions than ye?!
And "extremely competitive" is an exaggeration! And im not going to stay repeating myself over Cheddar.
I shared an opinion. Discuss it or dont i couldnt care less.
Seems to be a great performance in Wexford. 1 point behind with 5 to go.
Quote from: finbar o tool on March 26, 2017, 03:19:06 PM
Don and Keyser, 2 of the finest keyboard warriors ive ever seen! When are ye going to understand people can have different opinions than ye?!
And "extremely competitive" is an exaggeration! And im not going to stay repeating myself over Cheddar.
I shared an opinion. Discuss it or dont i couldnt care less.
An opinion is what I'm offering.
I would stand over saying that Laois were extremely competitive in 1B in 2014 & 2015?
2014- Laois beat Antrim and Offaly. Lost to Cork, Wexford and Limerick by 7, 6 & 4 points respectively.
Lost a quarter final to Clare (defending All Ireland Champions) by 4.
2015- Laois beat Antrim. Lost to Offaly, Waterford, Wexford and Limerick by 4, 18, 12 & 6 points respectively.
Beat Antrim comfortably in a relegation playoff.
So two heavy defeats in 2 years. The Wexford game for the record was 0-25 to 5-22 (so not totally outclassed).
Yes i'll say that is extremely competitive, particularly in 2014.
I'm not sure what you would be expecting as a Laois supporter. But sure I suppose we can always drop back and be extremely competitive in Division 2.
So, the progress you were looking for 12 months ago now involves stepping back into Division 2? Interesting definition of progress!
Play off vs Kerry hopefully get home venue. Seemed to be much improved in Wexford. However Wexford seemed very wasteful. Good to see goals from play good too. Vital we stay in the division.
Offering your opinion is not the problem keyser. Accepting others is!
Sounds like a solid performance in Wexford alright, delighted for the lads. We were competitive. Great to see us having a go! And in my opinion, we'll continue to run 1 or 2 teams close in the league, and win 1 or 2 here and there too. But thats all we'll do for the foreseeable future. Im trying to look at the bigger picture here and improve all around. So in 10/12 years we will be actually competing and challenging for Leinster titles. Stop making everything about cheddar! Im talking about Laois hurling from u6 to Senior and what can be done to improve the whole thing! Maybe dropping down isnt the answer but something has to be done or we'll be on this merrygoround forever!
Quote from: redsetanta on March 26, 2017, 12:55:44 PM
Come on Don no need for it.
He treated Cheddar like a tr**p, there's plenty of need for it. He can go f**k. I don't need to interact with anyone I dont wish to. I replied to keyser.
Don, I'd like to say your a bit over the top with Finbar but your perfectly correct. We had a great man in charge and he Finbar wanted us to move on to the next level. Now we're to go to Division 2. You couldn't make it up.
Quote from: HURLING1 on March 26, 2017, 06:26:19 PM
Don, I'd like to say your a bit over the top with Finbar but your perfectly correct. We had a great man in charge and he Finbar wanted us to move on to the next level. Now we're to go to Division 2. You couldn't make it up.
I've given him too much oxygen already.
;D Anymore gems of wisdom Don!? will you come out of Cheddars hole for a minute!
We had a half decent team under cheddar but he was too defensive. This current team is not near as good yet they are having a go! Do you think if he was in charge today we would have gotten as close to Wexford as we did??! Not a f**king chance!
Anyway like i said, im trying to comment on the current and future state of laois hurling, a wiseman once said, if you keep doing the same things you'll keep getting the same result. Thats whats happening in laois, every year, win 1 or 2, get a few hammerings, run a decent side close now and again, bet out of championship early, next year, the same, next year, the same and so on and so on. And its going on a long time now! We are obviously failing at underage and schools coaching, thats where the main problems are, not this current senior team. I guarantee Weatmeath and Carlow will pass us out over the next few years. As a county we are standing still. And its worrying.
Cheddar is a passionate Laois man and he has a vision and drive for the improvement of Laois hurling. Hes not going to do it on the sideline with the seniors but as a hurling director i think he would be very good.
Lay out your vision of an underage hurling plan for the county there Finbar
Already made a stab at it clonadmad. But I definitely dont have all the answers! Is that all you have to add or do you disagree with what im saying? Is Laois grand the way it is? Anyway ive had my rant!
Quote from: clonadmad on March 26, 2017, 08:47:15 PM
Lay out your vision of an underage hurling plan for the county there Finbar
He's got nothing. An empty vase.
Says the man doing nothing but throwing abuse! ;D
What "masterplan" is needed?
There is no such thing as a style of hurling that can be transferred all the way from U6 to Senior or even U12 to Senior.
From 6-12 all you can do is make sure the basics become natural, that fundamental movement is well covered, and that hurling is an attractive proposition- i.e. fun. That is all you can do.
From 12-14 all you can do is work sharpening the basics and adding the more complex skills. Introducing some tactical awareness at this age.
From 14-18 the basics should be natural, and the more complex skills should be made natural at this stage. More complex S&C/Fundamental Movement is introduced and a much higher level of tactical awareness/game management becomes the norm. Again, making hurling an attractive proposition is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT at this age.
We are very unlikely to ever be in a position to put a decent amount of work into an U21 team. Strong U21s will already be seniors, and will simply be unavailable to U21 managements.
I don't see how it is any more complicated than that?
Getting clubs into primary schools. Getting the same kids to go to the clubs. Getting development squads together at weekends and school holidays. What else can be done in terms of structures?
Time you grew up Don.
I asked Finbar for his Vision,not to score points or denigrate the man.
Quote from: clonadmad on March 26, 2017, 11:00:55 PM
Time you grew up Don.
I asked Finbar for his Vision,not to score points or denigrate the man.
I'm grand, thanks for your concern. I listened to enough from that man a year ago, I won't tolerate him any further. Vision? You'll be f**king waiting.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on March 26, 2017, 10:40:54 PM
What "masterplan" is needed?
There is no such thing as a style of hurling that can be transferred all the way from U6 to Senior or even U12 to Senior.
From 6-12 all you can do is make sure the basics become natural, that fundamental movement is well covered, and that hurling is an attractive proposition- i.e. fun. That is all you can do.
From 12-14 all you can do is work sharpening the basics and adding the more complex skills. Introducing some tactical awareness at this age.
From 14-18 the basics should be natural, and the more complex skills should be made natural at this stage. More complex S&C/Fundamental Movement is introduced and a much higher level of tactical awareness/game management becomes the norm. Again, making hurling an attractive proposition is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT at this age.
We are very unlikely to ever be in a position to put a decent amount of work into an U21 team. Strong U21s will already be seniors, and will simply be unavailable to U21 managements.
I don't see how it is any more complicated than that?
Getting clubs into primary schools. Getting the same kids to go to the clubs. Getting development squads together at weekends and school holidays. What else can be done in terms of structures?
No one has ever stated that, and why would they its a ridiculous comment!
You make it sound so simple Keyser! If it was as straightforward as that we'd be all Ireland champions long ago!! At least were having a conversation though and not just throwing jibes! The reason i hesitate to explain a "masterplan" or "vision" etc here is because it IS too complicated to put in a simple post on a forum as you have attempted above. Laois hurling hasnt really progressed in the last 20/25 years except for having a more professional set up at senior level over the last few years. Every year is a repeat of the last with slight variations. Ask yourself why? Just take a look at some other clubs in different counties via their websites etc and you will see the difference. Some clubs in Dublin and Kilkenny etc have stuff Laois dont even have at intercounty level. And some of those things have been in place for years! At club level! We are behind in terms of development and coach education and engagement with our young kids, and i could go on.
I dont have all the answers as ive said before, but to think we cant improve whats in place and strive for better is crazy. We need good hurling people and educated coaches, from Laois and elsewhere, to sit down together and develop a plan, or we'll be stuck in the doldrums forever.
Fair play to the current GDAs etc but they need more help and more bodies.
Sorry to be depressing but we cant bury our heads in the sand either and say next year will be different. It has to be a long term approach.
To be as pedantic as you- I never said it was simple.
But it isn't over complicated either. It does require hard work. Non stop and persistent hard work over many years. That's the secret. Any break of 2-3 years in the middle of this and you are back to square one.
Some of the people who end up over development squads is embarrassing at times. They are not capable of doing the job asked of them.
That is everyone's fault- mine, Don's, even yours!
Now, can you stop hesitating and at least suggest some of these improvements you had in mind.
This is quickly going down the road of your "Cheddar Out" phase- plenty of noise about what's wrong but almost having to be begged to suggest some ideas of your own.
You said you wanted discussion and then you come out with this stuff;
Quote from: finbar o tool on March 26, 2017, 11:14:09 PM
No one has ever stated that, and why would they its a ridiculous comment!
You make it sound so simple Keyser! If it was as straightforward as that we'd be all Ireland champions long ago!! At least were having a conversation though and not just throwing jibes! The reason i hesitate to explain a "masterplan" or "vision" etc here is because it IS too complicated to put in a simple post on a forum as you have attempted above...... and i could go on.
Sorry to be depressing but we cant bury our heads in the sand either and say next year will be different. It has to be a long term approach.
You are saying nothing that isn't being done or tried.
I think the comment re. the GDAs is valid. They are an extremely valuable resource and we're very fortunate with the lads we have in place. However, I firmly believe they need a lot more support (administration, strategy and organisationally) and they need a lot more bodies.
Without trying to imply that we indoctrinate a certain type of hurling from juvenile, the GDAs I believe are the key to ensuring we provide a consistent level of coaching and development across all the schools and clubs in the county. When you look at the footprint they have to cover, in terms of number schools and clubs per GDA and then you add the amount of administration and strategic work (and self-improvement) they need to do on top of this, I think our numbers are unrealistic.
I'm not sure if there is a generic rule of thumb applied per county (# of GDAs), or if it's simply down to the resources within each county, or if the funding is distributed centrally - but invaluable IMO
Re. yesterdays result and the form this year, without being naive, the number of injuries and age profile of the panel has to be a considered. Dropping down to Div 2 voluntarily would be lunacy. You have to be competing at the highest level you can, otherwise, you adapt to those around you and your standards drop - maybe not on a yo-yo year where you go down and come up, but if you go down and don't bounce back, disillusionment can easily set in
We need a minimum of 2 more hurling GDA's
We also need in the primary schools,parish leagues and an extension of the CnB program to include 3 and 4 class.
Each club needs to put a director of hurling in place to drive an agreed vision of the game,we have too many people in underage coaching positions in clubs who are willing but need direction as they aren't immersed in the game.
One example I see on a regular basis 15 v 15 games in training at u8's and u10 level,complete waste of time,small sided games are what's needed.
Was anyone down in Wexford yesterday to see our senior hurlers put up that brave display? As someone else mentioned it's good to see us raise a couple of green flags. No mean feat to run Wexford so close irrespective of their position in the table.
Cha back at centreback was a bold move and as Eamon Kelly said there was no one breaking through the middle as easily as against Limerick
Laois V Kerry 7pm next Saturday evening in O'Moore Park.
Spread the word and get people to attend. Very important game and they deserve the support.
Quote from: redsetanta on March 27, 2017, 02:43:25 PM
Laois V Kerry 7pm next Saturday evening in O'Moore Park.
Spread the word and get people to attend. Very important game and they deserve the support.
Hope Tipp beat the green and white rags that are offaly by a cricket score
Quote from: clonadmad on March 27, 2017, 09:57:49 AM
We need a minimum of 2 more hurling GDA's
We also need in the primary schools,parish leagues and an extension of the CnB program to include 3 and 4 class.
Each club needs to put a director of hurling in place to drive an agreed vision of the game,we have too many people in underage coaching positions in clubs who are willing but need direction as they aren't immersed in the game.
One example I see on a regular basis 15 v 15 games in training at u8's and u10 level,complete waste of time,small sided games are what's needed.
Completely agree. There are a lot of coaches running underage teams who don't believe in 'newfangled methods'. The club director of hurling should be a driven individual connected to modern methods - preferrably former senior inter county players. Most clubs have several candidates that would fit the bill. Too often it is parents of young fellas helping out that unwittingly neglect the skill development of younger players. The old excuse that 'young lads don't want to be doing drills all day' doesn't carry water in other counties.
Im also after hearing today and I dont know true it is or not,but for u12 games this year,mentors will now have to ref games as there are a shortage of Refs.
I was just wondering if Kelly used some of the posts here stating that Laois would be better off playing in Division 2 as motivation before the Wexford game. Could you imagine as a player seeing those comments and the lack of faith shown in them. I personally think it would be a huge set back dropping down a division and ridiculous that lads would consider this the best option for the county. Look at Antrim-it hasn't done them any favours. The lads have gained huge experience for playing in 1B this season and I would be optimistic that they will be in a much better position next season to challenge some of the stronger teams in 1B (once the GAA don't tamper with the structures like I fear they will to have an eight team Division 1 next season).
Quote from: clonadmad on March 27, 2017, 06:18:22 PM
Im also after hearing today and I dont know true it is or not,but for u12 games this year,mentors will now have to ref games as there are a shortage of Refs.
That's the clubs own fault. A list of referees should be published and clubs named and shamed
Will the Div 1 football league games be brought forward on Saturday evening? A bit crazy having a full round of league games, football or not, throwing in 30 mins before a big relegation playoff.
Quote from: Don Draper on March 27, 2017, 09:33:46 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on March 27, 2017, 06:18:22 PM
Im also after hearing today and I dont know true it is or not,but for u12 games this year,mentors will now have to ref games as there are a shortage of Refs.
That's the clubs own fault. A list of referees should be published and clubs named and shamed
A referees list is published every year in the CLG Handbook every year,It's very easy to see which club are supplying referees and which club aren't.Im surprised you weren't aware of that.
I know for a fact in Tipperary that if your club isn't supplying at least 1 referee,you club is barred from entering any competition at all levels,the same should be done here.
There shouldn't be any u-12 hurling games played without an official referee,for any number of reasons,full stop.
Quote from: clonadmad on March 28, 2017, 10:42:33 AM
Quote from: Don Draper on March 27, 2017, 09:33:46 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on March 27, 2017, 06:18:22 PM
Im also after hearing today and I dont know true it is or not,but for u12 games this year,mentors will now have to ref games as there are a shortage of Refs.
That's the clubs own fault. A list of referees should be published and clubs named and shamed
A referees list is published every year in the CLG Handbook every year,It's very easy to see which club are supplying referees and which club aren't.Im surprised you weren't aware of that.
I know for a fact in Tipperary that if your club isn't supplying at least 1 referee,you club is barred from entering any competition at all levels,the same should be done here.
There shouldn't be any u-12 hurling games played without an official referee,for any number of reasons,full stop.
I meant put it up here when you get a chance. The Club handbook is seen by few outside those involved in the Club Exec, I doubt some on here would ever have seen one.
There's by my count 14 clubs in the county not supplying refs in any shape or form,this is based on the 2016 handbook.
Some glaring examples
Abbeyleix
Arles Killeen
Arles Kilcruise
Ballinakill
Ballyroan Abbey
Rosenallis
The Harps
Loads of Clubs supplying just 1,Stradbally for example.
and then others more than up to scratch
Clough Ballacolla with 4
Castletown with3
Rathdowney/Erril with 5
Portlaoise with 3 and 2
Port with 5 football and 1 hurling
Courtwood with 3 and 1
List of referees available on Laois website
http://www.laoisgaa.ie/contentPage/358646/2017_referee_contacts
Thanks for that Brillo
By my count 13 Refs have stepped down between the 2016 list and the 2017 one and 5 new ones have stepped up,leaving us down 8 refs in total,making a bad situation even worse.
Lads we've gone way off course on this thread- keep it going in the Future for Laois hurling thread.
Any news on the team for Saturday? Will Picky or Matthew be available?
The three defeats to Kerry in the last 12 months or so have been the most disappointing results for years.
Kerry seem to enjoy hurling against us.
We need to stop conceding impossibly big scorelines.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on March 30, 2017, 06:51:45 PM
The three defeats to Kerry in the last 12 months or so have been the most disappointing results for years.
Kerry seem to enjoy hurling against us.
We need to stop conceding impossibly big scorelines.
I thought our best performance last year was the relegation match against Westmeath. Hopefully this will be a repeat. I believed we would struggle down in Tralee this year but am confident going to Portlaoise Saturday evening.
Same starting team named as the last day against Wexford. Bound to be changes so. I wonder will he play Cha at centreback again? Any sign of Picky or Matthew?
massive game tomorrow. Dropping to division 2 would have a huge negative impact imo. Hopefully can do it. Not too sure about the Cha at 6 experiment, he's not a natural defender from what I've seen of him, and is a massive loss from forward line
7 points up,into the breeze and we now have the footballers disease,1 man down
Kerry goal with the last puck of the game to draw level,extra time
It's like Kerry have a heck on this Laois team. Enda needs to get his head back into the game after that error. Why he just didn't let sliotar go over bar I don't know. Hopefully he can redeem himself. It's a big ask to win this now after playing virtually the whole game with 14 men. Fair play to Kerry though-they never give up.
In fairness to Enda, he'd just put over a point, and had pulled off a fantastic save earlier in the half. But yes, a bit of a disaster.
5m 20secs of injury time on top of extra time.
We definitely got our money's worth.
Great win and great heart shown by Laois team tonight. We can't ask much more of this panel as they gave everything. Deserved the victory I thought. Referee gave Kerry every chance with the amount of injury time played at the very end. It would have been some spectacle to watch a free taking shoot out but I'm not sure my nerves would have taken it.
I think Leix looked the better team overall, but the effort of playing most of the match w/ 14, and that freak goal nearly did for them. Mighty relieved, but well, well done!
Just to add, and with reference to the suggestion on here that Cahir Healy ditch the hurlers for the footballers - I thought he did an enormous amount of work in defence tonight. His determination and doggedness stood out a mile, and I for one hope he sticks w/ the hurlers!
That will probably go down as a decent enough league for the hurlers. Win over Offaly, win over Kerry when it counted most. Decent show in Wexford.
OK, the Galway and Limerick results were bad but we blooded plenty of players and have to be looking forward to the championship now.
Quote from: SCFC on April 01, 2017, 11:31:06 PM
That will probably go down as a decent enough league for the hurlers. Win over Offaly, win over Kerry when it counted most. Decent show in Wexford.
OK, the Galway and Limerick results were bad but we blooded plenty of players and have to be looking forward to the championship now.
Exactly. Unfortunately for the moment this is what we have to aspire to-beat the teams around us and put up a couple of good shows against the "bigger teams".
It's still a hell of a lot better than yo-yoing between Division 2A & Division 1B.
We need to shore up at the back big time.
Well holy f**k that was an incredible game of hurling.
Good to see them retain status with many new lads blooded over the campaign. They've earned their pints for the weekend. Hopefully a good round robin and leinster championship awaits!
Very proud of the Laois hurlers last night. They showed real character to win that game. I thought our goose was cooked with the Kerry goal to level it but to score the first 3 points of extra time was the winning of it. Some great performances all over the field from a very young team who are gaining experience and maturity with every game and led by their captain who was brilliant on the night. They deserve their pints over the weekend and go into the round robin series in good shape. A tough night as a supporter but ultimately a happy one.
You couldn't fault these lads for effort and guts. Kerry are a serious hurling team and are at least as good as us. Their pace, passing and precision is incredible. If we beat them in Tralee in May it will be very hard earned. There is no doubt that we have huge work to do in defence in particular but at least they can prepare for the championship with confidence. The young lads are gaining huge experience and they same to have great team spirit.
Great to see positives for Laois hurling for a change. The lads couldnt have given more especially being 1 man down so early.
Their determination was evident especially when they were winning by so much, let it go to extra time and then pulled it out of the bag. Great spirit, lead by King who took his role as captain to a new level.
The first half showed how well they are capable of hurling and the 2nd half showed how determined they can be.
Well done lads
Am I right in saying the winners of the round robin play Offaly in the Leinster Q/F?
No, not necessarily. The draw won't be made until after the round-robin is over.
On another note, it was good to see young Collier back. I thought he showed great potential a couple of years ago, and he got a nice point when he came on.
Quote from: burdizzo on April 01, 2017, 10:31:31 PM
Just to add, and with reference to the suggestion on here that Cahir Healy ditch the hurlers for the footballers - I thought he did an enormous amount of work in defence tonight. His determination and doggedness stood out a mile, and I for one hope he sticks w/ the hurlers!
Just to clarify, again, and to say, Cahir always said he wanted to go back to the footballers due to how it ended up previously. I was merely suggesting that given his age, he'd be as well go now, rather than wait until he was 33 or 34, and do himself some justice
if he so wished with the football. It wasn't a slight against the hurlers, despite many trying to make it out as such.
It was never a case of ditching the hurlers, Cahir never let Laois down a day in his life. If we had more like him, in both codes, we'd be in a lot better place.
It was a good night to be in O'Moore Park on Saturday, not so much to be beating Kerry, or staying up, but to see a new generation of Laois hurler born. They deserved that win. They deserved their few pints over the weekend. On such weekends, are teams formed. Well done lads.
It was very evident with every player how much it meant to them. They worked as hard as i've seen them work during a game and that set the tone. The chasing, hooking, blocking and tackling was immense and we came out of plenty of rucks with the ball. At times the standard wasn't as good as it should but we definately looked the better team. It was great to have Picky on the field and the difference primary possession makes. He caught one ball turned and put it over the bar.
Watching the likes of Willie Dunphy coming off disgusted that he had to leave the pitch and it was great to see the team smiling and upbeat afterwards. As someone else said they seem to have a great bond and nights like last Saturday will only make that stronger.
It suits us to be in the round robin this year to try and build up some momentum before we play in the quarter final and lets be honest we are good enough to come 1st or 2nd in that group.
Any word on injury list lads getting back for championship. The likes of Whelan and Mark Kavanagh back from acl injury?
Plus, I was wondering about Foyle and his eligibility after the red card.
Do red cards carry over to other competitions?
If so he'll miss game against Westmeath in Portlaoise.
Next two games are away to Meath and Kerry.
One comfort over the weekend was the performance of the hurlers who showed character and heart to stay up.
Well done lads!
Should beat Meath & Westmeath anyway. Kerry away will not be easy.
ROUND ROBIN (3 Rounds) - MEATH, KERRY, LAOIS, WESMTEATH
Round 1 (Round Robin)
1. Meath v Kerry 23.4.2017 Pairc Tailteann Navan 3.00pm
2. Laois v Westmeath 23.4.2017 O Moore Park Portlaoise 3.00pm
Round 2 (Round Robin)
1. Westmeath v Kerry 30.4.2017 TEG Cusack Park Mullingar 3.00pm
2. Meath v Laois 30.4.2017 Pairc Tailteann Navan 3.00pm
Round 3 (Round Robin)
1. Westmeath v Meath 14.5.2017 TEG Cusack park 3.00pm
2. Kerry v Laois 14.5.2017 Austin Stack Park Tralee 3.00pm
http://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/sport/243519/captain-king-shows-he-s-the-man-for-the-big-occasion-once-again.html (http://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/sport/243519/captain-king-shows-he-s-the-man-for-the-big-occasion-once-again.html)
It's all very quiet on here lads with only a few days to go before championship.
Reading the hoganstand website it looks like we could be without half a team. Picky, Matthew, Cha, Podge law lor, Lennon and Leigh Bergin are all on the treatment table. I think foyle is suspended too so if all those are missing we could be in bother. A minimum requirement in the championship would be to get out of the group, anything less and the year is a disaster really. Westmeath will be no pushover and Kerry away is a tough game so we need to get off to a good start on Sunday.
I'll have a go at what I think should be the starting team assuming all are available
E Fleming
Cleere
Bergin
Palmer
Healy
Matthew
L O Connell
R King
P Purcell
P Maher
C Dwyer
C Collier
W Dunphy
N Foyle
A Dunphy
C Taylor or P Whelan to come in for foyle presuming he's out.
Any word on PJ Scully, Mark Kavanagh or Tom Delaney?
I like Liam O'Connell but he needs to get a bit cuter. He was blocked down clearing the ball on a good few occasions against Kerry. It's not like he was being hooked from behind where he couldn't see anyone. Kerry got scores from a couple of these. In fairness he also scored a great point himself but he needs to be more aware of that.
Good interview with Ross King.
http://www.gaa.ie/features/feature/king-princely-ambitions-for-laois-hurling/ (http://www.gaa.ie/features/feature/king-princely-ambitions-for-laois-hurling/)
Random question, what ever happen to bill duggan from ballacolla?
Rugby.
Quote from: BallyroanAbbey on April 21, 2017, 01:28:05 PM
Random question, what ever happen to bill duggan from ballacolla?
Just picked on the Leinster Junior Club side for the InterPro's in fact.
Did I hear Eoin Fleming dropped off the panel? Not sure how true it is heard it today.
Team named. Pretty much as expected with a couple of surprises. Are Ryan Mullaney and John Lennon injured?
Mullaney did his shoulder but not sure about Lennon. He is carrying an injury though.
What are the surprises? Paddy Whelan and Picky on the inside line? Nothing major really.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on April 21, 2017, 10:09:36 PM
Team named. Pretty much as expected with a couple of surprises. Are Ryan Mullaney and John Lennon injured?
Yes
Relieved with that result. We were rather poor in the first half. The second half was a much better performance and should have piled on after going 8pts in front (all unanswered points). Thought bringing off Cha opened the door for Westmeath allowing them back into the game. Will need a big step up in performance to beat Meath who are obviously on a high after beating Kerry and winning Div 2B along with last years Christy Ring Cup.
Wasn't there today but sounded like Roddy didn't get going at all. We need all our top players to perform to do anything. Hopefully he saves his big game for Kerry.
Some win for Meath today. Just shows how tight this round robin will be. Very important game next week. A win and the job should be done.
Yes, I think taking off Cha was a bit premature, though he may have been limping a bit. In fairness, the management weren't afraid to make the changes after the poor first half, and bringing him forward seemed to get everyone on their game more. However, we do seem to have a bare enough panel, overall. A couple of injuries, and where are we? Mind you, Downey did well when he came on - could have earned himself a start next time?
As for Flemming dropping off the panel - looks like he should've stuck around. Bad mistake for Westmeath's second goal, and it was a shame to be in a tight corner after putting up such a big lead.
Meath next Sunday at 3pm. A win here is desperately needed because a win in Tralee on May 14th would be harder earned in my opinion.
i thought that todays win was very good when you consider the players that have retired/injured/wont commit to the team. We pulled away in the 3rd quarter when the game was in the balance, and responded very well to the first goal. There are a few obvious conclusions out of todays game
1)Regardless of where cha is played he is by and far our best player and i would argue is more important to the team now than willie hyland/keenan ever were to laois
2)Rowland for all the talent in the world as a shop stopper is always in danger of making poor mistakes, also i dont think his puckouts are very accurate, but length wise cannot be dismissed, fleming would probably be a less spectactular but less error prone keeper
3)Having lads on the bench that are subs/on 2nd teams of senior clubs must be a massive slap to lads from senior b/inter/junior clubs, i know they are young and probably with the u21s but if you couldnt make your club team the year before you shouldnt be getting within an asses roar of the squad, they had young harnett on the bench too which was nice and he has played fitzgibbon wit CIT and Senior B with Ballyfin last year as a gales player from Mountmellick so hopefully the gales teams unearths a few more, because having subs from club teams on the bench is a bad reflection.
Overall a good win and hopefully more to come
Quote from: BallyroanAbbey on April 23, 2017, 08:01:24 PM
i thought that todays win was very good when you consider the players that have retired/injured/wont commit to the team. We pulled away in the 3rd quarter when the game was in the balance, and responded very well to the first goal. There are a few obvious conclusions out of todays game
1)Regardless of where cha is played he is by and far our best player and i would argue is more important to the team now than willie hyland/keenan ever were to laois
2)Rowland for all the talent in the world as a shop stopper is always in danger of making poor mistakes, also i dont think his puckouts are very accurate, but length wise cannot be dismissed, fleming would probably be a less spectactular but less error prone keeper
3)Having lads on the bench that are subs/on 2nd teams of senior clubs must be a massive slap to lads from senior b/inter/junior clubs, i know they are young and probably with the u21s but if you couldnt make your club team the year before you shouldnt be getting within an asses roar of the squad, they had young harnett on the bench too which was nice and he has played fitzgibbon wit CIT and Senior B with Ballyfin last year as a gales player from Mountmellick so hopefully the gales teams unearths a few more, because having subs from club teams on the bench is a bad reflection.
Overall a good win and hopefully more to come
On your third point - just looking through the subs, I can only see one player who matches that description - Brian Corby. Good young player and probably doing well with the U21s. He is only out of minor so couldn't have played senior yet, it is not that he is of lesser quality than other lads. I would doubt that there are too many put out by it. By and large, our best hurlers are making themselves available for the team with the exception of Zane (as always).
Good and bad yesterday. We won with a very young team and a lot of lads got their championship debuts. Some of them did very well under the circumstances and arguably lifted the older lads. Cian Taylor, Lee Cleere, Sean Downey, Aaron Dunphy, Eanna Lyons and Eric Killeen all had debuts yesterday and the lads around them are all under 23 with few exceptions. We won't be complacent going to Meath next week, that's for sure and hopefully Roddy, Paddy Purcell and a few more that didn't really perform yesterday can show what they are made of. It was encouraging to see Ciaran Collier hurling well too. The biggest worry for me was that when Westmeath needed goals, we let them have them. Similar to what we saw against Kerry in both league matches. Have to shut down those spaces more effectively and track back on the runners from midfield.
On your third point - just looking through the subs, I can only see one player who matches that description - Brian Corby. Good young player and probably doing well with the U21s. He is only out of minor so couldn't have played senior yet, it is not that he is of lesser quality than other lads. I would doubt that there are too many put out by it. By and large, our best hurlers are making themselves available for the team with the exception of Zane (as always).
The likes of Joe Campion, Gearoid Burke, Dayne Peacock would be a few more, i do accept your point about Corby been with the u21s
Best of luck to Laois tomorrow. The wind will be important. Would love to see is with it in second half as it is forecast to get stronger towards evening.
Quiet on here.
Big win today against a Meath team with plenty of hurling in them. As always, room to improve but a 15 point win should see us into quarters. Hope Cahir recovers quickly. Thankfully Collier and Clere have come back and are flying as we are seriously low on options at the back.
If we can win in Kerry, I think that would be the first time we would win all 3 qualifiers. Big ask though as Kerry need the win more than we do. I feel we have improved a lot since the league so if we can throw off the shackles and defend tightly we can win. All about primary possession where we have struggled against them for the last 2 years.
Laois won today on a 3-25 to 2-13 scoreline. I thought Laois were on the back foot for the first twenty minutes and Meath were dictating the pace of the game. The injury to Healy looked nasty, hopefully he isn't too bad - he did walk off though which may be a good sign. From there on Laois took the game to Meath and rattled the net three times, Foyle was instrumental in breaking ball down for Purcell to run on to and bag his hat-trick.
The second half was going-through-the-motions stuff though and yet again we shipped two goals which is a big worry. The second goal for Meath was awful to concede. Hats off to Rowland though for saving the penalty later in the game. I was impressed with Cleere, King and Purcell today and Cha was very good also - but why is management taking him off with 10 minutes to go?.
Overall it has been a decent run through this round robin group and I didn't expect us to be going as well, running up big leads - however sitting back after going ahead and inviting other teams on to us is a massive, massive worry. Kerry in two weeks time down in Tralee will be an interesting test - I hope the lads get a win there and top the group, it's the least they deserve for all their hard work.
In fairness, every time Meath rallied we pushed them back out to 15 points. With that wind it was never going to be easy in the second half. No doubt we need to continue to work on defence but the tracking back today was much better and we worked hard for turn overs.
The last day out they said that Cha was carrying a niggle and they took him off.
Didn't make yesterday but hope to make Tralee . What' was the extent of Healys injury ?
By all accounts Meath were riding on a crest of wave coming into the Laois Match so it's nice to turn them over in such a convincing manner . Talking to a chap who was present in Navan yesterday and he said Laois were considerably more physical than Meath and capitalised on this throughout .
I think Healy will certainly be out for the Kerry game. However, Ryan Mullaney mightn't be too long before he's back. Possibly not the Kerry game, but shortly after.
Hopefully Healy's injury doesn't prove too bad and can be back in time for Leinster first round proper game-if we qualify as is looking likely at the moment.
With Kerry facing the possibility of relegation if they lose I reckon it will be a ferocious battle in Tralee come the final group game. It would be very satisfying to relegate a bogey team of ours from both league and championship in the one season. I think there is every chance Westmeath beat Meath by a couple of points and with Kerry possessing a minus score difference the game could present Laois with an opportunity to showcase a ruthlessness and dispatch Kerry to Christy Ring for 2018.
With the Leinster GAA Hurling Senior Championship Qualifier Group round 3 coming up on 14th May 2017 and Laois v Kerry , thought i'd put up a link to some pictures from the relegation play off on 1/4/17.
http://laoisvkerryhurling010417.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/laois-v-kerry-allianz-hurling-league.html
now we just need to go to Tralee and get the win
Quote from: CruiseCigar on May 02, 2017, 08:20:16 AM
With the Leinster GAA Hurling Senior Championship Qualifier Group round 3 coming up on 14th May 2017 and Laois v Kerry , thought i'd put up a link to some pictures from the relegation play off on 1/4/17.
http://laoisvkerryhurling010417.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/laois-v-kerry-allianz-hurling-league.html
now we just need to go to Tralee and get the win
Thanks for sharing the pictures - it was some evening in fairness. Huge win but we should have been out of sight in normal time.
Laois will see this as an important game. There will be a huge sense of progress if we win and it will be deflating if we don't. Won't be easy. In terms of victories in the last 18 months or so it is 3-1 to Kerry so we need to redress the balance.
Any interviews i've heard or read the Laois lads are speaking about beating Kerry so they seem to be focussed on that task. It sounds like the players really want to go down there and beat them as they still owe them. As already mentioned it would be great to go into the quarter final with that win.
Beating Kerry would be nice, but in the grand scheme of things, apart from keeping a winning run going, and barring a trimming and results going against us, it will matter very little in a few weeks if we don't get over Offaly/Wexford. To that end, knocks need to be minded, and nobody rushed to perform. The focus should be on, getting what we need out of the game, and then awaiting the open draw.
Topping the groupp won't make any difference as it's an open draw and unless we are beaten by 13 points Kerry cannot overtake us on scoring difference. Meath would need to beat Westmeath by even more so we will be in the draw. They will still want to go for the win though just to prove a point to themselves more than anything else. That's what I hear from the interviews. Fair enough they're not going to be stupid in their pursuit of that so Cahir isn't going to have to hobble onto the field for the game.
For their own progression and confidence going into the quarters a win in Tralee is important.
http://hoganstand.com/ArticleForm.aspx?ID=269784
Cahir's injury is worse than initially feared it seems which is bad news. We'd really need him in for the Wx/Oy game should we progress.
He'll be a huge loss particularly the quarter final. Healy is one of the leaders and he really stood up to the plate when we played Kerry in the relegation decider. Can't afford to lose a defender of his quality.
Willie Dunphy also out of Sundays game. Cahir could be out for a while with a hamstring tear so unlikely to be back for any q/f we'll be in.
So Wexford it is. Think I'd have preferred them to Offaly. Should focus our lads!
Sunday 28/5
In portlaoise
Quote from: Heshs Umpire on May 14, 2017, 04:45:57 PM
So Wexford it is. Think I'd have preferred them to Offaly. Should focus our lads!
I like that draw.
It's not Offaly again. That's almost no win now. If we lose 2015 becomes a flash in the pan. If we win- ah ye can beat Offaly the odd time when they are poor, but ye can't beat anyone else.
This is a step up on Offaly, but it's not Kilkenny, Dublin or Galway. Or worse, the Munster teams.
Positive championship so far- nothing to lose now, and although we ship the odd hiding from them, we are generally competitive with Wexford.
Got the job done today too, sounded like a good second half from Laois. Well done.
Great scoring stats from Laois this season..
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C_zLAvVXsAAfIld.jpg)
Quote from: Keyser Söze on May 14, 2017, 05:37:52 PM
Quote from: Heshs Umpire on May 14, 2017, 04:45:57 PM
So Wexford it is. Think I'd have preferred them to Offaly. Should focus our lads!
I like that draw.
It's not Offaly again. That's almost no win now. If we lose 2015 becomes a flash in the pan. If we win- ah ye can beat Offaly the odd time when they are poor, but ye can't beat anyone else.
This is a step up on Offaly, but it's not Kilkenny, Dublin or Galway. Or worse, the Munster teams.
Exactly my thinking except you explained it better!
Is that the first time we have won all 3 games in the round robin?
A credit to this very young team with so many injury problems. Hope we can get a few more back before Wexford.
Job done now, hopefully they can play with confidence (and a tight defence...) against Wexford.
The round robin has been great for Laois this year.
The system suits a team who is finding it's feet and the momentum gained should stand to Laois against Wexford. The fact we have them in O'Moore Park is better still. They should bring a big crowd so we need the Laois support and I think they are buying into what the hurlers are doing.
A great result for the players yesterday as they have proved to themselves that they could go down to Kerry and get that win. They didn't needit to qualify so it's more of a statement from the players. The team is producing characters and again to go in behind at half time and come out and hurl their way to the lead in a short period of time shows the intent. They still conceded goals but they recoved and saw out the victory. Paddy Purcell with another goal and King on the money from placed balls. We just needto try and stop conceding goals at the other end.
Wexford will be a great test for these lads and hopefully there is a good Laois crowd there and the weather is good.
When is the Wexford game? Some reports suggesting both quarter finals are on 27th, while some suggesting that the Laois match is on the 28th?
I wonder how our injury list will be by then. Sounds like Ben Conroy is gone for the year according to Jack Nolan.
Cahir Healy, Willie Dunphy, Cian Taylor, Podge Lawlor and a fit Ryan Mullaney would be nice to have back.
Looking at the table there, Westmeath had the best defensive record and conceded the least goals by a long shot. only 1 goal in 3 games compared to ourselves conceding 7! Both Kerry and Meath scored more than Westmeath but thanks to their defense they qualified. We do need to address the concession of goals though because the step up in standard means we won't be scoring as much.
Anywhere i've looked it's down for Sunday 28th.
What happened to Conroy?
fair play to Laois against Kerry, after giving away to quick goals just on half time , that is an issue, but the came back with good resolve at start of 2nd. now a home game against wexford, interesting
Westmeath have possibly the best full back in the country-one of main reasons they concede so few goals. Those injuries are worrying for Laois. We really need our strongest team out to be competitive against Wexford.
https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/weve-drawn-one-of-the-form-teams-in-the-country (https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/weve-drawn-one-of-the-form-teams-in-the-country)
Quote from: Clubber Lang on May 15, 2017, 02:24:55 PM
Westmeath have possibly the best full back in the country-one of main reasons they concede so few goals. Those injuries are worrying for Laois. We really need our strongest team out to be competitive against Wexford.
Not sure we are conceding goals because of our full back line to be fair - although we did struggle in the air this weekend. Most of the goals scored against us are from free runners who are not picked up or are not put under pressure when it counts. We are too easy to run at.
Good win at the weekend.Well done to all!
Wexford at home is a great draw ...
Nothing to loose against a team who are really fancied to go well this year...
Wexford will bring 6,000 plus to this game will be a great occasion and test for the young Laois team.
Fantastic to see Cahir Healy prowling on the sideline like a lion in water carrier's clothing, urging the lads on. By the way he was sprinting in and out with water he should be back in action soon. No sitting in the dugout nursing himself.
Picky has yet to rediscover his form but I have no doubt he will hit his stride soon. Hopefully against Wexford.
Mark Kavanagh came on near the end and scored a sublime point and looks very sharp.
Once again we struggled a bit against fourteen men. We never seem to know what to do with the extra man. Dropping him into the backs just seems to unsettle things. Why we don't play the spare man in the forwards and really hammer the opposition never ceases to amaze me.
Anyway, job done and on we go. Brilliant support from the fans who waited for the warm down to finish and clapped the lads off the field. It felt very good to be a Laoisman walking out of the ground.
Delighted for the lads who have shown such commitment . They have had dark days but stayed going and got their rewards.
It was great to see them pick themselves up after the 2 goals from kerry and fight until the end.
It's a team that doesnt have the best subs bench but you couldnt ask for any more from them all
Why are kids being charged €5 for the Wexford game?? Thought u16s were always free? Bit much now IMO >:(
Championship everyone pays and you also have this bolloxology of seniors paying full price and having to look for refunds at the ground. Whatever about €5 for u16s, €20 for adults is another €5 too much.
Quote from: redsetanta on May 19, 2017, 12:29:57 PM
Championship everyone pays and you also have this bolloxology of seniors paying full price and having to look for refunds at the ground. Whatever about €5 for u16s, €20 for adults is another €5 too much.
Buy the adult Ticket any time before the day of the game and you don't have to claim any refund,you get the €5 off
I see where Eoin Reilly clocked up a score in the league. Is he still involved with the county panel?
Quote from: redsetanta on May 23, 2017, 12:12:48 PM
I see where Eoin Reilly clocked up a score in the league. Is he still involved with the county panel?
No he stepped away to try see could he make a burst for an outfield position at some point.
Quote from: Don Draper on May 23, 2017, 12:27:25 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on May 23, 2017, 12:12:48 PM
I see where Eoin Reilly clocked up a score in the league. Is he still involved with the county panel?
No he stepped away to try see could he make a burst for an outfield position at some point.
I'd be calling him in straight away.
Yes. Anywhere outside our 21 is within scorable distance for him!
A score of 2-12 with 1-03 from play is impressive even if it's just a league game. Plenty of intercounty experience as well. Pity he isn't a teak tough defender.
It's looking like Cahir won't be available to start on Sunday and Paddy Whelan is also out. Good news is Willie Dunphy is back and Cian Taylor is also back fit.
Any suggestion on a starting team. I assume it will be along simlar lines to the RR minus P Whelan.
Picky out to half forward maybe and Dunphy in the corner. The rest will start as they did against Kerry.
Most likely:
Rowland
Cleere
Bergin
Palmer
Collier
Cha
Whelan
Purcell
King
Taylor
Picky
Downey
W. Dunphy
Foyle
A. Dunphy
Will John Lennon be fit?
Is Ben Conroy injured?
Quote from: redsetanta on May 24, 2017, 04:53:35 PM
Is Ben Conroy injured?
Yeah, think he is getting surgery on his shoulder which will put him out for the year i'm afraid.
So if your Eamonn Kelly setting up & preparing for Wexford how would you go about setting up for Sunday?
We seen Corks game plan & tactics work a treat last Sunday.
In fairness Cork just tore into Tipp with a level of physicality and intensity that Tipp just couldn't compete with. They also won a serious amount of primary possession. The half back line bossed the Tipp half forwards.
I am not sure if we can bring that level to our game and sustain it for 70 minutes against Wexford. We can do it against Kerry and did in the relegation playoff but I certainly couldn't see us doing a Cork on it.
Quote from: redsetanta on May 25, 2017, 12:53:01 PM
In fairness Cork just tore into Tipp with a level of physicality and intensity that Tipp just couldn't compete with. They also won a serious amount of primary possession. The half back line bossed the Tipp half forwards.
I am not sure if we can bring that level to our game and sustain it for 70 minutes against Wexford. We can do it against Kerry and did in the relegation playoff but I certainly couldn't see us doing a Cork on it.
Spot on, that it is the only way. What is the difference between Wexford 2016 and 2017? Davy has thought them to increase their intensity for 75 minutes. The best plan is to fight for everything and give them no space. Primary possession is everything.
Quote from: redsetanta on May 25, 2017, 12:53:01 PM
In fairness Cork just tore into Tipp with a level of physicality and intensity that Tipp just couldn't compete with. They also won a serious amount of primary possession. The half back line bossed the Tipp half forwards.
I am not sure if we can bring that level to our game and sustain it for 70 minutes against Wexford. We can do it against Kerry and did in the relegation playoff but I certainly couldn't see us doing a Cork on it.
While they did bring serious physicality, Cork also had a fairly clever plan. Positioning of their insider forwards and Nash's clever distribution combined to bypass the Tipp half back line. Their consequent scramble to get on ball saw them moving towards their own goal an awful lot more than usual. When they were doing this Cork half forwards opened up, forcing them to come back out. Simple.
Simple, done well, is usually the best way.
Wexford will want to play short quite a bit. This can lead to mistakes, particularly in a championship opener. Press high up FROM PLAY, keeping midfielders deep. From DEAD BALLS drop well off.
Stopping McDonald from dominating in the air will be very very important. He has a few years physically on Bergin.
It will be interesting.
Physicality, and intensity, will be vital components. But there is no point in pretending that these will be enough and that we can just go out and play.
Looking forward to it!
I see where Michael Duignan is warning Wexford against complacency and having their eye on KK in Wexford Park. He says that Laois at home have performed very well over the years and in Willie Hyland and Stephen Maher have forwards who can out up big scores.
I like Duignan as a commentator and have seen him attend games in O'Moore Park but his knowledge of the hurling scene in Laois is very poor. With all respect to Picky he has been far from a major threat this year either. Me thinks Duignan is being somewhat complacent too.
Not our pig, not our farm, but holy fook - http://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/sport/251139/the-sideline-mouthpiece-if-we-can-t-beat-westmeath-we-may-as-well-give-up-hurling.html
That will be plastered on the dressing room walls of Westmeath tomorrow ;D
Looking at Duignan's quote above, it seems he's in good company.
I see John Lennon starts at centre forward on Sunday. Will Dunphy in the half forwards too.
Hope he's going well (Lennon). We're light enough on replacements to plug the gaps.
Laois Team For Sunday
(https://scontent-amt2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/18671621_1317587128361683_6468018170828935274_o.jpg?oh=898c21956b8723ffe057ec95673f0048&oe=59E87831)
i dont think we will be lacking in drive and intensity Sunday, but if we can get our decision making right under pressure, and cut off supply to Chin, then we could rattle Wexford.
Wexford will want to stop big runs from Purcell and we have to be prepared for that. I can see Picky switching with Willie Dunphy early on to support Purcells runs, and if we can be clever with our possession and feed Foyle with Purcell continuing his run without the ball we could get a few goal chances which will be a very important factor. We need Downey and Aaron Dunphy on form on the day too. Our backs will hold up fairly well but we need to keep the pressure on at the other end or Wexford will pull away with 10/15 minutes to go.
Davy's positioning of Shaun Murphy early on will give us on idea of what his approach will be.
Another great read from Pat.
http://www.laoistoday.ie/2017/05/27/pat-critchley-sometimes-laois-hurlers-cause-upset-thats-really-special-time/ (http://www.laoistoday.ie/2017/05/27/pat-critchley-sometimes-laois-hurlers-cause-upset-thats-really-special-time/)
Quote from: finbar o tool on May 27, 2017, 11:32:40 AM
i dont think we will be lacking in drive and intensity Sunday, but if we can get our decision making right under pressure, and cut off supply to Chin, then we could rattle Wexford.
Lee Chin plays midfield for Wexford. He may be picked full forward, but he rarely plays there. Up your game.
Quote from: Don Draper on May 27, 2017, 11:09:31 PM
Quote from: finbar o tool on May 27, 2017, 11:32:40 AM
i dont think we will be lacking in drive and intensity Sunday, but if we can get our decision making right under pressure, and cut off supply to Chin, then we could rattle Wexford.
Lee Chin plays midfield for Wexford. He may be picked full forward, but he rarely plays there. Up your game.
Lol.
I would be worried about Conor McDonald. A fine talent who seems able to win any sort of ball that goes into him.
To repeat from earlier in the week, we regularly enough have a right good go at Wexford, rarely enough get a bad beating.
Our club teams always compete well v Wexford in Leinster Leagues and Club Championships.
I'm looking forward to it.
Quote from: Don Draper on May 27, 2017, 11:09:31 PM
Quote from: finbar o tool on May 27, 2017, 11:32:40 AM
i dont think we will be lacking in drive and intensity Sunday, but if we can get our decision making right under pressure, and cut off supply to Chin, then we could rattle Wexford.
Lee Chin plays midfield for Wexford. He may be picked full forward, but he rarely plays there. Up your game.
Sad. Even sadder that your sidekick at to chip in with a "lol".
We needed to cut off supply to Chin wherever he plays, he's instrumental for Wexford.
They were after goals goals goals today and we did well not to concede more than 1 in the first half. Were just not good enough at the moment and its as simple as that really.
Quote from: finbar o tool on May 28, 2017, 05:34:16 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on May 27, 2017, 11:09:31 PM
Quote from: finbar o tool on May 27, 2017, 11:32:40 AM
i dont think we will be lacking in drive and intensity Sunday, but if we can get our decision making right under pressure, and cut off supply to Chin, then we could rattle Wexford.
Lee Chin plays midfield for Wexford. He may be picked full forward, but he rarely plays there. Up your game.
Sad. Even sadder that your sidekick at to chip in with a "lol".
We needed to cut off supply to Chin wherever he plays, he's instrumental for Wexford.
They were after goals goals goals today and we did well not to concede more than 1 in the first half. Were just not good enough at the moment and its as simple as that really.
Sidekick? ;D
While you are correct in saying that we are not good enough at the moment, management did NOTHING to help today.
We had absolutely no shape or structure at the back and no presence in the centre of the field for the entire second half. I don't mean that the players there had no impact- I literally mean that we had no players in the centre of the field. The aforementioned Lee Chin stood at the centre point and collected ball after ball totally unmarked.
On our puckouts our wingbacks followed their wing forwards up beyond the centre of the field.
On their puckouts we had 8 players inside THEIR 65. This stopped the short puckout BUT the ball invariably went over their heads and (seeing as we now had nobody in the middle of the field) left their half forward line 1v1 under puckouts. We had a sweeper who did not seem to know where to be and I don't think he cleared a ball. Totally ineffective.
It should be an eye opening moment. We can play unstructured hurling v Westmeath, Kerry, Carlow and possibly Offaly and compete and win. Anyone above that will cut us to shreds as long as we play like this. It was juvenile in its naivety. I flagged this way back when we played Offaly in the league and our corner back followed their corner forward out the field (leaving 2v2 on OUR full back line) and Offaly scored 1-2 in the opening minutes as a direct result of the space created.
At times today there were Wexford players unmarked in the right half forward position for 3-4 phases of play. This was in front of me in the stand in the first half. It was about 3-4m away from the Laois technical area. Nobody was called to pick the free player up. I know it is not an U12 team but the sheer lack of any attempts to set up a solid rearguard today was disturbing.
If Wexford weren't so intent on getting goals they could have easily racked up 35 points.
Still there are some positives. We battled hard for 30mins before running out of steam. We took some good scores. Lee Cleere had a fine game. Paddy Purcell got a fantastic goal. Ciaran Collier held his own. Rowland made a series of very good saves.
Please god we don't get Tipp,and can we please attempt to shut things down and limit space in our own half the next day.
Quote from: finbar o tool on May 28, 2017, 05:34:16 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on May 27, 2017, 11:09:31 PM
Quote from: finbar o tool on May 27, 2017, 11:32:40 AM
i dont think we will be lacking in drive and intensity Sunday, but if we can get our decision making right under pressure, and cut off supply to Chin, then we could rattle Wexford.
Lee Chin plays midfield for Wexford. He may be picked full forward, but he rarely plays there. Up your game.
Sad. Even sadder that your sidekick at to chip in with a "lol".
We needed to cut off supply to Chin wherever he plays, he's instrumental for Wexford.
They were after goals goals goals today and we did well not to concede more than 1 in the first half. Were just not good enough at the moment and its as simple as that really.
Keyser is no sidekick, he's a batman, not Robin.
Did Chin do untold from full forward today?
Cut off suppply from a fella playing a free role, you're a great thinker of the game.
Quote from: Don Draper on May 28, 2017, 06:58:10 PM
Keyser is no sidekick, he's a batman, not Robin.
I'm blushing!
lads Eamon Kelly is poor , offaly had him last year and westmeath hurl them off the field. this year was different it was alot better with kevin Ryan at least he had them fit and up for it, unlike last year. look theres nothing between laois,offaly,westmeath but i think Kelly doesn't have a clue.
offaly also were well beaten last year by wexford in wexford park, he put Niall Wynne the smallest player on the offaly team fullback again Connor MCDonald iust clueless.
Quote from: Thewildcat on May 28, 2017, 10:53:35 PM
lads Eamon Kelly is poor , offaly had him last year and westmeath hurl them off the field. this year was different it was alot better with kevin Ryan at least he had them fit and up for it, unlike last year. look theres nothing between laois,offaly,westmeath but i think Kelly doesn't have a clue.
offaly also were well beaten last year by wexford in wexford park, he put Niall Wynne the smallest player on the offaly team fullback again Connor MCDonald iust clueless.
So who would you have in his place then?
Keeping in mind our standing and lack of resources
One thing about yesterdays game is that Rowland is as brave as they come and puts his body on the line. Sean Downey another young man who gave 100% and really got stuck in. Ok yesterday was hard to watch in the second half as Wexford just strangled Laois in the end but there was a lot of young lads who should be proud of how they performed. Hopefully they can have a go at the U21 as we haven't done enough at this grade in recent years. Plenty to work on with these young fella's. Our bigger players couldn't get going yesterday and all in all Wexford were the cuter and knew what they could get away with. Maybe youth brings too much honesty. Disappointing to see Cha and Dunphy get the line. Both lads have the temperment that gets triggered when things aren't going their way. Cha can be stupid with some of the stuff he does as it's obvious. Willie get frustrated and lashes out although I didn't see what happened in his incident yesterday.
All in all well beaten in the end but not counteracting their free man in the first half didn't help.
Quote from: redsetanta on May 29, 2017, 11:09:35 AM
One thing about yesterdays game is that Rowland is as brave as they come and puts his body on the line. Sean Downey another young man who gave 100% and really got stuck in. Ok yesterday was hard to watch in the second half as Wexford just strangled Laois in the end but there was a lot of young lads who should be proud of how they performed. Hopefully they can have a go at the U21 as we haven't done enough at this grade in recent years. Plenty to work on with these young fella's. Our bigger players couldn't get going yesterday and all in all Wexford were the cuter and knew what they could get away with. Maybe youth brings too much honesty. Disappointing to see Cha and Dunphy get the line. Both lads have the temperment that gets triggered when things aren't going their way. Cha can be stupid with some of the stuff he does as it's obvious. Willie get frustrated and lashes out although I didn't see what happened in his incident yesterday.
All in all well beaten in the end but not counteracting their free man in the first half didn't help.
Just to clarify, because you said you didnt see what happened in one of the incidents. You're being a bit harsh on both Charlie and Willie. While both have previous, neither were completely in the wrong yesterday. Charlie was on a yellow and was in an altercation that he could do little about once it started, typical GAA, yellow cards for both, Charlie gone. Willie's was dangerous but I don't believe it was him lashing out either, the ball was there and he went for it and caught the player. Letter of the law, red card. But he didn't flake a man either.
Disappointed yesterday after a good start, conceding the goal after we scored 3 points was an early blow. I felt the most obvious theme of the game yesterday was the Wexford backs winning most of the 50/50, 60/40 battles for possession. You couldn't fault the lads effort but it looked like Wexford were never in too much trouble after getting the lead. Anyone know when the draw is on?
Yes, it I t was a good start, and that goal knocked the good out of it. I know Rowland had a good game subsequently, but I think he was at fault for that one - one he came out for the ball, he needed to claim it.
In fairness, the defence did well enough to limit them to three goals.
The sweeper worked up to a point, but it obviously gave the forwards a lot of work to do w/ the numerical disadvantage. As soon as we reverted to normal, Wexford got their second goal.
The big advantage Wexford had, though, was size and strength - and a lot more depth to their panel.
I'd say the draw is after the provincial semi-finals.
Would agree with Don on the sendings off.
While Cha's was probably inevitable, I get the feeling that opponents are starting to just wind him up now and he needs to learn how to handle that. Having said that, his blood was obviously still boiling from a minute or two prior to the first yellow card, when the Wexford player tried (and failed) to drive him over the line and nevertheless, the linesman, who was looking at Cha's back at the time, decided to give the line ball. This kind of decision making is really very irritating.
As for the Willie Dunphy pull, I don't think he made contact with the player at all. Certainly he made contact with the ball. But just about 2 minutes before this pull, the Wexford No. 17 jumped into a glut of players and pulled very wild. Because there was a group of players there, it was missed but it was certainly much more deliberately nasty that Dunphy's pull. As someone said, it's really just a bit of cuteness.
Apart from some shitty decisions against us, I left OMP feeling that this is a decent group of lads. I thought Lee Cleere was really magnificent on McDonald and he really only opened up when Cleere went off. He played well despite being injured since early in the first half (again partly though a nasty (and deliberate) elbow into his thigh while both players were on the ground. He's going to be a fantastic defender though. The two midfielders too are a credit to the county. Collier too showed glimpses of class.
Wexford were a lot more physical than us but a few more years, if they all stick together, should sort that. I wouldn't be too down about that defeat yesterday.
The support that Laois had was great to see too. Just shows that the interest is there if the team is competitive.
Hopefully, we'll get a half decent draw now.
Men against boys could been a lot more than 14 only for Rowland
The ref however made our job even harder
I dread to think what will happen if we draw Tipp
We lack so much in the physical side of things its not funny
How come we have no quigley o loughlin booth meaney or begley type players in the hurling its frustrating to look at the ball in the air and know well when it comes down a laois man wont be taking it clean or 9/10 times wont be strong enough to win the breaks either
How come? Because most of these lads are U-21. If they stick together it'll come.
Quote from: Unlaoised on May 29, 2017, 04:05:25 PM
Men against boys could been a lot more than 14 only for Rowland
The ref however made our job even harder
I dread to think what will happen if we draw Tipp
We lack so much in the physical side of things its not funny
How come we have no quigley o loughlin booth meaney or begley type players in the hurling its frustrating to look at the ball in the air and know well when it comes down a laois man wont be taking it clean or 9/10 times wont be strong enough to win the breaks either
Well we had an O Loughlin but he preferred football.
We had a Joe Fitz but he retired.
Give it a few years and our footballers wont have a Quigley, Booth, Meaney or Begley either.
I'd have been happier if we had decided against hurling ball down on top o Matt O Hanlon all day long, that'd have solved some of our problems.
Quote from: Unlaoised on May 29, 2017, 04:05:25 PM
Men against boys could been a lot more than 14 only for Rowland
The ref however made our job even harder
I dread to think what will happen if we draw Tipp
We lack so much in the physical side of things its not funny
How come we have no quigley o loughlin booth meaney or begley type players in the hurling its frustrating to look at the ball in the air and know well when it comes down a laois man wont be taking it clean or 9/10 times wont be strong enough to win the breaks either
theses are the same players who have laois in division 4 next year :-[
Jaysus, I can't believe some of the anti Eamonn Kelly rants. They are totally unjustified. I think he is doing a great job.
In a post Cheddar era, with a new team of mostly U21s or close to it, we won all our round robin matches for the first time ever and managed to survive in 1B of the league. He has bonded a really promising young team together nicely and has them playing with pure passion and flair. Our heads never dropped when it was obvious we were second best.
We were punching well above our weight yesterday and given the mismatch in experience I thought there were lots of positives. In fairness there were mistakes made with not reacting to the sweeper, which we eventually did and Kelly held his hand up, and bringing in Jack Kelly to start corner forward in his first match was a risk. He took a chance to change things up by bringing on an extra forward for Cleere which didn't work but at least it showed decisiveness and ambition.
However, he has built a team that is starting to look stable with a load of injuries to contend with.
We really struggled for physicality and to win clean ball. This will need to come with time if we are to step up. Wexford's precision and muscle really stood out. They could hold their ground and win clean ball out of the sky. We also hit too many wides.
We need to get behind this setup and think about the totality of what is happening before throwing cowardly cheap shots at management.
I take it you realise 'Wildcat' is really a bitter Biffo?
I agree - I think Kelly has done fine. He has a shallow and very young panel, but they've done as well as could be expected. I hope they stay together, manager included. In a way it's a pity they didn't draw Offaly, but better get them when we're ready to stay up.
It's ridiculous to criticise management for what I think is commendable job so far. We have lost 7/8 key players the last couple of years that would be of huge help to the current panel if they were still available-sadly they are not. Laois lack primary ball winners from puck-outs etc. Against good teams you will get destroyed if you are conceding that amount of possession-these are young players and with a couple more years at this level, hopefully they will be much better physically at challenging for the 50/50 ball. The injuries we were carrying as well did not help on the day- not having Cahir in defense was a definite loss.
Let's hope Laois can get a favourable draw in the back door. This team deserves another chance at claiming a scalp of note- it would do wonders for their progression and development. I was encouraged by how they continued to try and hurl right up to the very end. Hopefully the u21s can give leinster a decent crack as well- they have built up plenty of experience so far this year.
While I think Eamon Kelly has done a reasonably good job so far, and it's true we lack players of requires standard, that doesn't mean it's unfair to question aspects of team selection or tactics. Not much point in discussing match otherwise
Why did we keep launching high balls on a physically dominated half forward line? Could we have brought Foyle a bit for puckouts?
With regard to reacting to sweeper, why didn't we use our own spare man more? Surely working the ball through the lines and playing short accurate ball to forwards, or waiting until we were far enough up the pitch to bypass sweeper and hit Foyle on edge of square would have been better options?
Team worked hard throughout, some good performances from Collier, Downey and in particular Cleere.
The use of Cha at 6 baffles me. We are losing an excellent forward to make a mediocre centre back. He would also bring some badly needed physicality to our half forward line
We're robbong Peter to pay Paul. We don't have enough players. Cheddar tried Foyle at centre back for the same reason. Would the likes of John Lennon have the makings of a centre back? We badly need to find one of intercounty standard for the future. This years minor centre back, Delaney, could progress but can't be relying on a 17 or 18 year old.
On another note what was the opinion on Jack Kelly starting on Sunday? He looked out of his dept and with lads who had decent league and round robin experience sitting on the bench should he have started?
Quote from: redsetanta on May 30, 2017, 12:13:34 PM
We're robbong Peter to pay Paul. We don't have enough players. Cheddar tried Foyle at centre back for the same reason. Would the likes of John Lennon have the makings of a centre back? We badly need to find one of intercounty standard for the future. This years minor centre back, Delaney, could progress but can't be relying on a 17 or 18 year old.
On another note what was the opinion on Jack Delaney starting on Sunday? He looked out of his dept and with lads who had decent league and round robin experience sitting on the bench should he have started?
I'd say you mean Jack Kelly instead of Jack Delaney from Shanahoe. What is the story with Joe Campion this year that he didn't commit. Good strong lad that is badly wanted for our half forward line. Also see u21s out Wednesday hopefully get a good campaign. Any word on a team?
Presumably he (Kelly) was going well in training, and I suppose it was a 'curve-ball' to surprise Wexford. However, it didn't really work. I was amazed by it, I must say!
Quote from: Target Man on May 30, 2017, 11:53:54 AM
While I think Eamon Kelly has done a reasonably good job so far, and it's true we lack players of requires standard, that doesn't mean it's unfair to question aspects of team selection or tactics. Not much point in discussing match otherwise
Why did we keep launching high balls on a physically dominated half forward line? Could we have brought Foyle a bit for puckouts?
With regard to reacting to sweeper, why didn't we use our own spare man more? Surely working the ball through the lines and playing short accurate ball to forwards, or waiting until we were far enough up the pitch to bypass sweeper and hit Foyle on edge of square would have been better options?
Team worked hard throughout, some good performances from Collier, Downey and in particular Cleere.
The use of Cha at 6 baffles me. We are losing an excellent forward to make a mediocre centre back. He would also bring some badly needed physicality to our half forward line
Foyle was definitely brought out for a period in the first half. Matt Hanlon is an outstanding centre back, and a monster in the air. He swallowed everything that came his way. We needed a plan b, one that wasn't giving it short to Dwane to in turn lamp it to Hanlon.
U21's for game against Westmeath tomorrow night. It's as experienced an U21 team as we've put out in a long time. Alot of senior experience there. Hopefully the Wexford defeat will drive them on. Westmeath not to be taken lightly. Beat the cats this time last year while we were being beaten by Carlow.
1. Paul Simms (Ballinakill)
2. Donnacha Hartnett (Mountmellick)
3. Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
4. Lee Cleere (Clough-Ballacolla)
5. Eric Killeen (Rathdowney-Errill)
6. Liam O'Connell (Rathdowney-Errill)
7. Ryan Mullaney (Castletown)
8. Jack Kelly (Rathdowney-Errill)
9. Aidan Corby (Clough-Ballacolla)
10. Sean Downey (Ballinakill)
11. John Lennon (Rosenallis)
12. Brian Corby (Clough-Ballacolla)
13. Mark Kavanagh (Rathdowney-Errill)
14. Eanna Lyons (Ballyfin)
15. Aaron Dunphy (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
Quote from: redsetanta on May 30, 2017, 04:21:58 PM
U21's for game against Westmeath tomorrow night. It's as experienced an U21 team as we've put out in a long time. Alot of senior experience there. Hopefully the Wexford defeat will drive them on. Westmeath not to be taken lightly. Beat the cats this time last year while we were being beaten by Carlow.
1. Paul Simms (Ballinakill)
2. Donnacha Hartnett (Mountmellick)
3. Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
4. Lee Cleere (Clough-Ballacolla)
5. Eric Killeen (Rathdowney-Errill)
6. Liam O'Connell (Rathdowney-Errill)
7. Ryan Mullaney (Castletown)
8. Jack Kelly (Rathdowney-Errill)
9. Aidan Corby (Clough-Ballacolla)
10. Sean Downey (Ballinakill)
11. John Lennon (Rosenallis)
12. Brian Corby (Clough-Ballacolla)
13. Mark Kavanagh (Rathdowney-Errill)
14. Eanna Lyons (Ballyfin)
15. Aaron Dunphy (Borris-in-Ossory-Kilcotton)
I will definitely be depressed if this team doesn't win. Westmeath will have plenty of hurlers but that is the strongest Laois U21 team I have ever seen on paper. A few of them are not that long back from injury which could be a worry but I really hope they perform.
This team would be on a par with the 2007 and 2012 teams in my opinion. There is a good spine to the team with plenty of competitive games at senior level under their belt. I don't see us fearing any other team in Leinster. In 2014 and 2015 we were competitive in Leinster at minor level with a Leinster final appearance in 2014 and semi-final appearance the year after. However, Westmeath should not be underestimated as I remember they beat a strong Wexford team in Innovate Park in the minor championship few years ago and had an impressive victory over Kilkenny in last year's U21 Championship while also pushing Dublin close that year as well which will boost their confidence levels going into this year's championship. It could be a close encounter and I would be happy with any sort of victory on the night. There is no outstanding team in Leinster this year so if lady luck was on Laois' side you never know how the championship will play out.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on May 29, 2017, 08:08:02 PM
Jaysus, I can't believe some of the anti Eamonn Kelly rants. They are totally unjustified. I think he is doing a great job.
We need to get behind this setup and think about the totality of what is happening before throwing cowardly cheap shots at management.
I think this is very unfair.
Bar one poster (who does not hide the fact that they are from Offaly) nobody has gone on an "anti Eamonn Kelly rant".
People have questioned various aspects of our setup and selection. Surely he is not above this?
The man is well compensated for his efforts and surely he can be questioned?
He is not doing a bad job. He is not doing a great job. He has made some very funny selection calls that haven't worked. He has a small squad to work with. Laois set up very naively against Wexford. Laois played with great spirit against Wexford.
That is balanced, and fair, and is the gist of what posters have been saying.
No one is on an anti Eamonn Kelly rant bar that idiot from Gracefiekd who pretends he's from Camross for some reason.
This will be a very tough game for Laois. Westmeath have approx 10 of the starting team that beat Kilkenny last year, like us they would be hugely disappointed to lose this game. We need a win badly though to give these guys the confidence that Laois hurling is worth fighting for and that there is a future. I actually don't think the team is as strong as some ppl here are making out. Although they are all senior panelists, at least one player was not starting on his club senior team last year. Also, looking at the half forward line and forwards in general I hope scoring wont be an issue. While they are all good lads and will work their socks off, If Mark Kavanagh and Aaron Dunphy were to be well marked or have an off day I think we could struggle on the scoreboard. The backline does look strong and the fact that these lads have all been exposed to a very high level of training should stand to us and hopefully will be enough to get us over the line.
Jaysus....is that 3 or 4 years in a row beaten at first go.
That u21 would rot your hole. Supposedly best u21 we have on paper and manage to fall at 1st hurdle. Absolutely raging with that result!
6 points up with 7 mins to go and blew it
Typical!
What a disappointment. We looked tired and sluggish to say the least.
nobody able to contest a high ball.
Are they burnt out from training with snr panel or is it just not in the county?
Thought this team were going to be better than what we got tonight
Quote from: LOVEGAA on June 01, 2017, 12:20:54 AM
What a disappointment. We looked tired and sluggish to say the least.
nobody able to contest a high ball.
Are they burnt out from training with snr panel or is it just not in the county?
Thought this team were going to be better than what we got tonight
Yet again - and until we learn/coach our players how to catch and hold on to a ball we will never, ever, ever win a match against meaningful opposition again. Over the past 20 years or so, we've been gradually reeled in by the likes of Westmeath, Kerry, Carlow etc... now we can get used to being beaten by them in the future years.
Eventually we're going to be a struggling Christy Ring team in another twenty years.
Tough loss to take. Guilty of thinking the game was won with five minutes to go. Valuable lesson learned but its a massive disappointment to lose that game last night. Fatigue was certainly evident-it's not that these lads aren't fit but energy levels weren't there at the end. It's a bitter pill to take. A 4/5 point victory looked nailed on from early out and had we held on I would have been reasonably happy with performance and hopeful of upping it a gear to challenge Kilkenny next day out. It's back to the drawing board and our next realistic prospects at underage is our U15 panel.
I think that's the most disappointing thing. Being ahead the whole game and giving a good lead away like that in the dying minutes. It's not like it's the first time we've witnessed it. Laois don't close out games as we saw against Kerry in the relegation playoff which a good few of these lads were involved in. 4 up with a minute or so to go. Some rest before taking on KK who are no world beaters this year either would have been the reward. Maybe our fortunes will change with the start of the U20 grade!
We need to keep the heads down all it takes is a few good lads to turn it . Comerford and Podge Delaney need to be got on board off the minors for next year and keep building. Results seem to be going well at u16 u15 and u14 so we need to be patient. Anyone have more info on the u15s and who is showing well for them?
Quote from: Laoiseabu on June 01, 2017, 02:20:34 PM
We need to keep the heads down all it takes is a few good lads to turn it . Comerford and Podge Delaney need to be got on board off the minors for next year and keep building. Results seem to be going well at u16 u15 and u14 so we need to be patient. Anyone have more info on the u15s and who is showing well for them?
While its disappointing not to get any run going at U21, we must remember its about bringing through senior players, which we have done in spades already with this age group. We have obvious deficiencies, once again we need ball winners, and we need strong men in the air, and that needs to be worked on, but this group have matured admirably at senior level and that needs to be remembered. They'll be sick today, it'll have been a tough week, but time to let them recuperate now and for the senior squad to pull together for the qualifiers.
Quote from: Don Draper on June 01, 2017, 02:29:24 PM
Quote from: Laoiseabu on June 01, 2017, 02:20:34 PM
We need to keep the heads down all it takes is a few good lads to turn it . Comerford and Podge Delaney need to be got on board off the minors for next year and keep building. Results seem to be going well at u16 u15 and u14 so we need to be patient. Anyone have more info on the u15s and who is showing well for them?
While its disappointing not to get any run going at U21, we must remember its about bringing through senior players, which we have done in spades already with this age group. We have obvious deficiencies, once again we need ball winners, and we need strong men in the air, and that needs to be worked on, but this group have matured admirably at senior level and that needs to be remembered. They'll be sick today, it'll have been a tough week, but time to let them recuperate now and for the senior squad to pull together for the qualifiers.
Have to agree 100% Don, most of these lads have done a lot of hurling and learning this year already. Long term vision, continued quality coaching and patience needed.
The main aim for this group should be to get a top line S&C program in place.
In every game,at every level we are lacking physical size and power.
even at u15 level v Tipp in Colt the last day,there was an apparent disparity in shape and size of the opposition.
Quote from: clonadmad on June 02, 2017, 09:41:48 AM
The main aim for this group should be to get a top line S&C program in place.
In every game,at every level we are lacking physical size and power.
even at u15 level v Tipp in Colt the last day,there was an apparent disparity in shape and size of the opposition.
One encouraging thing about the U21s the other night was that we had a nice share of big lads and didn't struggle physically. Ryan Mullaney, Fonzy O'Connell, John Lennon and Leigh Bergin are big men. The likes of Eric Killeen and Aaron Dunphy are filling out. Even some of the smaller lads such as Mark Kavanagh and Lee Cleere look like they will be hardy too.
That loss on Wednesday night was so hard to take as we didn't lose because we weren't good enough, we lost because of attitude. We dominated the game for 58 out of 60 minutes and were playing with Westmeath (the 2 attempts at goals late on could have been easy points and we were home and dry). They rose their game and we were asleep thinking about Kilkenny. They were better in extra time for sure but we were in shock and panicking.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on June 02, 2017, 10:33:08 AM
Quote from: clonadmad on June 02, 2017, 09:41:48 AM
The main aim for this group should be to get a top line S&C program in place.
In every game,at every level we are lacking physical size and power.
even at u15 level v Tipp in Colt the last day,there was an apparent disparity in shape and size of the opposition.
One encouraging thing about the U21s the other night was that we had a nice share of big lads and didn't struggle physically. Ryan Mullaney, Fonzy O'Connell, John Lennon and Leigh Bergin are big men. The likes of Eric Killeen and Aaron Dunphy are filling out. Even some of the smaller lads such as Mark Kavanagh and Lee Cleere look like they will be hardy too.
That loss on Wednesday night was so hard to take as we didn't lose because we weren't good enough, we lost because of attitude. We dominated the game for 58 out of 60 minutes and were playing with Westmeath (the 2 attempts at goals late on could have been easy points and we were home and dry). They rose their game and we were asleep thinking about Kilkenny. They were better in extra time for sure but we were in shock and panicking.
Bottom line though we blew it
6 points up with 7 mins to go.
Westmeath dominated extra time and they might give kk their fill of it too,there's 10 from last year playing this year.
Whoever wins Leinster is assured of an all ireland place.
Quote from: Don Draper on June 01, 2017, 02:29:24 PM
Quote from: Laoiseabu on June 01, 2017, 02:20:34 PM
We need to keep the heads down all it takes is a few good lads to turn it . Comerford and Podge Delaney need to be got on board off the minors for next year and keep building. Results seem to be going well at u16 u15 and u14 so we need to be patient. Anyone have more info on the u15s and who is showing well for them?
While its disappointing not to get any run going at U21, we must remember its about bringing through senior players, which we have done in spades already with this age group. We have obvious deficiencies, once again we need ball winners, and we need strong men in the air, and that needs to be worked on, but this group have matured admirably at senior level and that needs to be remembered. They'll be sick today, it'll have been a tough week, but time to let them recuperate now and for the senior squad to pull together for the qualifiers.
Whilst I agree with you its frustrating to watch our players in hurling be dominated physically in every game we play at every grade for the last 20 years...
Just can;t figure out how we are so small and so weak in the air when it comes to hurling .We never seem to have that problem in football not that we get much success there either .
Quote from: Unlaoised on June 02, 2017, 12:19:27 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on June 01, 2017, 02:29:24 PM
Quote from: Laoiseabu on June 01, 2017, 02:20:34 PM
We need to keep the heads down all it takes is a few good lads to turn it . Comerford and Podge Delaney need to be got on board off the minors for next year and keep building. Results seem to be going well at u16 u15 and u14 so we need to be patient. Anyone have more info on the u15s and who is showing well for them?
While its disappointing not to get any run going at U21, we must remember its about bringing through senior players, which we have done in spades already with this age group. We have obvious deficiencies, once again we need ball winners, and we need strong men in the air, and that needs to be worked on, but this group have matured admirably at senior level and that needs to be remembered. They'll be sick today, it'll have been a tough week, but time to let them recuperate now and for the senior squad to pull together for the qualifiers.
Whilst I agree with you its frustrating to watch our players in hurling be dominated physically in every game we play at every grade for the last 20 years...
Just can;t figure out how we are so small and so weak in the air when it comes to hurling .We never seem to have that problem in football not that we get much success there either .
Because we are way behind the serious hurling counties when it comes to S&C and athletic development across all the ages.
And it's not a quick fix either,when Kirsenstein came on board with the Tipp seniors he told them it would be 2 years min before they would see the benefits of his work and they weren't starting from scratch.
As regards catching a high ball that's a skill that can be coached,there's a small chap down in Tullaroan,I wonder would he run a few workshops?
Quote from: Unlaoised on June 02, 2017, 12:19:27 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on June 01, 2017, 02:29:24 PM
Quote from: Laoiseabu on June 01, 2017, 02:20:34 PM
We need to keep the heads down all it takes is a few good lads to turn it . Comerford and Podge Delaney need to be got on board off the minors for next year and keep building. Results seem to be going well at u16 u15 and u14 so we need to be patient. Anyone have more info on the u15s and who is showing well for them?
While its disappointing not to get any run going at U21, we must remember its about bringing through senior players, which we have done in spades already with this age group. We have obvious deficiencies, once again we need ball winners, and we need strong men in the air, and that needs to be worked on, but this group have matured admirably at senior level and that needs to be remembered. They'll be sick today, it'll have been a tough week, but time to let them recuperate now and for the senior squad to pull together for the qualifiers.
Whilst I agree with you its frustrating to watch our players in hurling be dominated physically in every game we play at every grade for the last 20 years...
Just can;t figure out how we are so small and so weak in the air when it comes to hurling .We never seem to have that problem in football not that we get much success there either .
I agree. Back in the 80s and before we always had a reputation of being a physical side. Was more about the sheer mass of some of the players (PJ Cuddy for example) rather than an advanced strength and conditioning program! We need both though. Even when you look at Cheddar's team in their Prime we were very small and light. At least we have a lot of taller players coming through now and they are young so there is plenty of time to add bulk. It amazes me in Rugby how much bulk they can get onto players in a year without impacting pace and agility.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on June 02, 2017, 01:37:46 PM
Quote from: Unlaoised on June 02, 2017, 12:19:27 PM
Quote from: Don Draper on June 01, 2017, 02:29:24 PM
Quote from: Laoiseabu on June 01, 2017, 02:20:34 PM
We need to keep the heads down all it takes is a few good lads to turn it . Comerford and Podge Delaney need to be got on board off the minors for next year and keep building. Results seem to be going well at u16 u15 and u14 so we need to be patient. Anyone have more info on the u15s and who is showing well for them?
While its disappointing not to get any run going at U21, we must remember its about bringing through senior players, which we have done in spades already with this age group. We have obvious deficiencies, once again we need ball winners, and we need strong men in the air, and that needs to be worked on, but this group have matured admirably at senior level and that needs to be remembered. They'll be sick today, it'll have been a tough week, but time to let them recuperate now and for the senior squad to pull together for the qualifiers.
Whilst I agree with you its frustrating to watch our players in hurling be dominated physically in every game we play at every grade for the last 20 years...
Just can;t figure out how we are so small and so weak in the air when it comes to hurling .We never seem to have that problem in football not that we get much success there either .
I agree. Back in the 80s and before we always had a reputation of being a physical side. Was more about the sheer mass of some of the players (PJ Cuddy for example) rather than an advanced strength and conditioning program! We need both though. Even when you look at Cheddar's team in their Prime we were very small and light. At least we have a lot of taller players coming through now and they are young so there is plenty of time to add bulk. It amazes me in Rugby how much bulk they can get onto players in a year without impacting pace and agility.
rugby is professional so everything is monitored ...Ie what they eat speed tests etc etc...
We are amateur's at the end of the day...The Dubs are just about professional as you will get in the football and they are on a par with those rugby players in speed and bulk ...its only when i saw them up close and personal in Nolan park last year i saw what a machine like outfit they were.
Still think our hurlers are behind when it comes to basic skill's of judging the high ball and fielding it for so many years even when we had a few big men.
As i said its frustrating to look at!
Antrim or Carlow. I presume it'll be an away game?
We SHOULD be able for either of them...
Quote from: burdizzo on June 06, 2017, 09:04:19 AM
Antrim or Carlow. I presume it'll be an away game?
We SHOULD be able for either of them...
We've had sod all luck in these draws. Westmeath got a feckin bye this morning!
i cannot believe this draw..laois won all there matches in qualifiers..Then they get wexford..,now they have to play either carlow or antrim..And westmeath get a bye..,to me this is so unfair...
Westmeath get a bye - to what, a game w/ a Munster heavy-weight? I'd much rather a game that can be won, that will get lads training w/ a bit of positivity, than a game w/ Tipp., or someone, who'd probably give Laois a hiding. And yes, it was unlucky to get Wexford having topped the group, but the shoe was on the other foot a couple of years ago when Westmeath (or was it Antrim?) got Wexford, and Leix got Offaly, despite not winning all their matches. You win some, you lose some. I suppose w/ a change of championship structure in the offing, we were unfortunate not to have a go at Offaly and book a place in the top tier - but how ready for that are we?
I'd be of the opinion that this draw is good for the team
4 championship games played already,this one is a fifth and very winnable,if we win it,we will have a sixth game
The more games this team gets the better to help with their development.
When if ever did laois play 5/6 championship games in a year
nothing wrong with the draw and I would prefer antrim as Carlow play with such negative tactics, it does little for improving a teams overall game.
if we do win this playoff, we cannot draw Tipperary........must be a losing semi finalist(except Wexford, if they lose on Saturday).
So we could be playing Offaly yet...
One step at a time, however!
Quote from: oneflewoverthecuckoonest on June 06, 2017, 10:38:25 AM
nothing wrong with the draw and I would prefer antrim as Carlow play with such negative tactics, it does little for improving a teams overall game.
if we do win this playoff, we cannot draw Tipperary........must be a losing semi finalist(except Wexford, if they lose on Saturday).
we avoid beaten quarter finalists ie Tipp/Dublin/Westmeath and play only beaten semi finalists bar Wexford?.
so Limerick,
losers of Waterford/Cork,Offaly/Galway and KK if Wexford beat them
We can play losing semifinalists or quarter finalists I think.
From the Gaa master fixtures.
All-Ireland Championship
24.06.2017 (Sat) Preliminary Round (If approved at Congress 2017) Christy Ring Winner 2017 v Leinster Quarter-Final Loser
01.07.2017 (Sat) Round 1 (Knock out) This round shall involve the eight teams defeated in the Munster and Leinster Quarter-Finals (Or the Preliminary Round Winner) and Semi-Finals. Teams shall be drawn from two bowls which shall be as follows: Group 1 Four Leinster Championship Teams. Group 2 Three Munster plus one Leinster Championship Team. (The Leinster Championship Team to be included in the Munster Group shall, where feasible, be one of the two Teams that qualified for the Leinster Quarter-Finals through the Provincial Qualifier Group. If however both of these Teams qualify for the Leinster Final, then the replacement shall be one of the Leinster Teams defeated by them. An initial Draw shall be made to determine the Team from the Leinster championship which is to be included in Bowl 2) The Teams shall play on a Knock-Out basis. A Draw of four pairings of Group 1 v Group 2 Teams, with avoidance of Repeat Pairings, shall be made. Group 1 v Group 2 Group 1 v Group 2 Group 1 v Group 2 Group 1 v Group 2 Venues shall be on a Home or Away basis and shall be determined by a Draw.* The four Winners shall progress to Round 2.
If we beat Carlow/Antrim we are put into the Munster pot along with Tipperary, Limerick and the losers of Cork v Waterford. The 'Munster' teams are drawn against the Leinster teams which are Dublin, Westmeath and the losers of the two semi finals. Repeat fixtures are "to be avoided if possible" I'm unsure if our round robin game against Westmeath counts as a repeat fixture. So providing we win we likely play Offaly or Dublin...
Quote from: County baller on June 06, 2017, 07:32:55 PM
If we beat Carlow/Antrim we are put into the Munster pot along with Tipperary, Limerick and the losers of Cork v Waterford. The 'Munster' teams are drawn against the Leinster teams which are Dublin, Westmeath and the losers of the two semi finals. Repeat fixtures are "to be avoided if possible" I'm unsure if our round robin game against Westmeath counts as a repeat fixture. So providing we win we likely play Offaly or Dublin...
I think it's a good draw too. One thing though- couldn't it be Laois OR Westmeath who end up in the Munster pot?
Yeah you're right it could've been either before the draw today. Essentially what the draw today was, was to decide who went into the Munster pot only to get into that pot you have to beat the Christy Ring Champions.
Looks like Laois got the better side of the draw, yes they have an extra game and not been cocky here but they should beat either Carlow or Antrim. One thing though, and I know this is only a dream, but imagine if Laois had a season like Leicester City last year and won the All Ireland how many Championship Games would they of played in the season? 9 or 10? In comparison to say Kilkenny who play probably 4 games to win an all-Ireland. Kind of unfair really having to play nearly double the amount of games to win the same cup! As I said though, it's only a dream. ;D
Quote from: Target Man on June 06, 2017, 03:51:01 PM
. (The Leinster Championship Team to be included in the Munster Group shall, where feasible, be one of the two Teams that qualified for the Leinster Quarter-Finals through the Provincial Qualifier Group. If however both of these Teams qualify for the Leinster Final, then the replacement shall be one of the Leinster Teams defeated by them. An initial Draw shall be made to determine the Team from the Leinster championship which is to be included in Bowl 2
Quote from: County baller on June 06, 2017, 11:20:29 PM
Yeah you're right it could've been either before the draw today. Essentially what the draw today was, was to decide who went into the Munster pot only to get into that pot you have to beat the Christy Ring Champions.
I haven't a clue eitherways but just wondering are what Target Man and County Baller saying not contradicting each other? From the first post I'd read that either Laois or Westmeath could still end up in Munster bowl?
Not sure Keyser if the fact we were drawn in prelim round means we also get into munster group, County baller may well be correct (ie that draw of Laois or Westmeath may have been taken also as draw for Munster pot as draw would be between same two teams)
yeah we go into the munster pot if we beat Antrim/Carlow. Can't get Wexford again, but can get Westmeath. The Westmeath game not counted as a repeat fixture. So once Kilkenny beat Wexford, and we beat Antrim/Carlow, we can get Offaly, Westmeath or Dublin. If Kilkenny lose we might get them either. Don't think that will happen.
Quote from: smcder on June 07, 2017, 09:34:03 PM
yeah we go into the munster pot if we beat Antrim/Carlow. Can't get Wexford again, but can get Westmeath. The Westmeath game not counted as a repeat fixture. So once Kilkenny beat Wexford, and we beat Antrim/Carlow, we can get Offaly, Westmeath or Dublin. If Kilkenny lose we might get them either. Don't think that will happen.
Could well have 3 more games so! Be longest run in many a year!
Be great to beat Offaly!
We've an awful record in the qualifiers. Lets get past Carlow/Antrim first. Great opportunity for the lads if we do. How are we on injuries?
Willie Dunphy cleared to play Antrim/Carlow.
Good, harsh enough red card.
Anyone have any thoughts on the (proposed) championship structure for next year? Is it worth a new topic? Not mad about it myself.
Quote from: burdizzo on June 09, 2017, 07:54:58 AM
Good, harsh enough red card.
Anyone have any thoughts on the (proposed) championship structure for next year? Is it worth a new topic? Not mad about it myself.
I'll make a decision on it once we get knocked out in the semi final stages this year.
Big and very comfortable win for Carlow yesterday. I don't think that was expected. It will be a local derby now in a neutral venue(possibly Nowlan park). I think a lot will depend on the attitude of the Laois team. We are good enough to beat Carlow without question. Unfortunately the qualifier route has not been a happy hunting ground for us, Im not sure if we have ever won a qualifier game.I felt that after we were knocked out of the Leinster Championship the sting was taken out of us. This year however we have a chance to progress a bit in the Championship and its something the players deserve for all their efforts. Carlow will be a tough proposition though and will be high on confidence. We will have to be mentally right for this one and come out all guns blazing. I hope our management were at the Christy ring cup final and have identified their strengths and weaknesses, our felt our management were quite naïve against Wexford in not counter acting Shaun Murphy. Presuming everyone is fit id start the following team..
Rowland
Palmer
Bergin
Cleere
Whelan
Collier
Healy
Purcell
King
Downey
Cha
W Dunphy
Picky
Foyle
M Kavanagh
Quote from: Tobias on June 11, 2017, 04:22:25 AM
felt our management were quite naïve against Wexford in not counter acting Shaun Murphy.
I felt they were even more naive in how they chose to eventually counteract it!
Quote from: Tobias on June 11, 2017, 04:22:25 AM
felt our management were quite naïve against Wexford in not counter acting Shaun Murphy. Presuming everyone is fit id start the following team..
Rowland
Palmer
Bergin
Cleere
Whelan
Collier
Healy
Purcell
King
Downey
Cha
W Dunphy
Picky
Foyle
M Kavanagh
Collier centre back? That'd be a huge ask!
If Healy is back then Palmer probably has to go based on the last day.
Don't think Mark Kavanagh did enough to earn a spot either.
Interesting team though
Think the Kilkenny U21's minus their senior panel players gave Laois seniors a beaten in a challenge game on Friday.
Didn't hear that but a worrying result if true.
To be fair I suppose, the vast majority of the team would have come through a tough league game with their clubs just 24 hours earlier.
Willie Dunphy is gone for the Carlow game, broken hand picked up in training during the week.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on June 11, 2017, 10:59:46 AM
Quote from: Tobias on June 11, 2017, 04:22:25 AM
felt our management were quite naïve against Wexford in not counter acting Shaun Murphy.
I felt they were even more naive in how they chose to eventually counteract it!
Quote from: Tobias on June 11, 2017, 04:22:25 AM
felt our management were quite naïve against Wexford in not counter acting Shaun Murphy. Presuming everyone is fit id start the following team..
Rowland
Palmer
Bergin
Cleere
Whelan
Collier
Healy
Purcell
King
Downey
Cha
W Dunphy
Picky
Foyle
M Kavanagh
Collier centre back? That'd be a huge ask!
If Healy is back then Palmer probably has to go based on the last day.
Don't think Mark Kavanagh did enough to earn a spot either.
Interesting team though
Collier at CB might be a bit of a surprise but I feel most teams are now running at defenses from deep (as we are now with Paddy Purcell), so we need a guy with pace and energy at centre back so that when we are turned he can get back to challenge . He's been excellent since he came back from injury and he would have good support from Matthew and Healy on the wings.
Palmer hadn't his best game the last day but he was very good in the league against good opposition and imo doesn't deserve to be dropped, also by playing him and bringing Cahir back in it allows Cha to go back to the half forward line where he is badly needed.
I would give Mark Kavanagh a chance, he was probably our best forward in the u21 until injured. Bar maybe Downey, have any of the other forwards done enough to keep their place?? We were very lightweight against Wexford in the forward line and without trying to be too harsh im not sure if some of the forwards playing the last day will ever be good enough to play at this level. The news about Willie Dunphy is unfortunate as he should have more to offer, I would have played him in the half forward line as he can both win ball and score, one of our strengths in recent years has been getting scores from out the field, to do this we need good strikers in the half forward line and midfield.
Carlow at home on Sunday 27th at 3.30pm.
Carlow not to be taken lightly after what was an impressive display beating Antrim. Hopefully the lads will be up for it and it be great if Kelly changes things up a bit but also prepared to make changes if required, quicker than he did against Wexford.
Considering the WX-KK game it put's our game V Wexford in a better light. Carlow will be a tough assignment no doubt, but I feel the home advantage should see us through by three or four points. To get Offaly in the following round should we win at home on June 24th would be fantastic. Dublin would not be a bad one to get either. IC hurling on the 8th of July looks plausible from here provided we avoid the heavyweights of Munster & Kilkenny.
Quote from: G@@ on June 13, 2017, 10:41:15 PM
Considering the WX-KK game it put's our game V Wexford in a better light. Carlow will be a tough assignment no doubt, but I feel the home advantage should see us through by three or four points. To get Offaly in the following round should we win at home on June 24th would be fantastic. Dublin would not be a bad one to get either. IC hurling on the 8th of July looks plausible from here provided we avoid the heavyweights of Munster & Kilkenny.
I don't think we'd be anywhere near able for Dublin. Offaly be our only hope!
I presume we'd be away to Dublin? Parnell Park is fairly tight!
No, we wouldn't be able for Dublin; but I think we could still draw Westmeath. Home or away is, I think, dependant on who is drawn out of the hat first.
But Carlow will certainly fancy their chances, and if Laois' eye isn't on the ball, then they'll lose. Which would be a REAL downer.
We are in the Munster group with Tipp,Lk and the losers of Cork/Waterford,provided we overcome Carlow
We can be drawn against
Dublin
Westmeath
Kk
Losers of Offaly/Galway
First name drawn has home advantage,Draw next Monday morning on Morning Ireland
Dublin are in bother with alot of unease in the camp apparently.
Quote from: clonadmad on June 14, 2017, 02:56:33 PM
We are in the Munster group with Tipp,Lk and the losers of Cork/Waterford,provided we overcome Carlow
We can be drawn against
Dublin
Westmeath
Kk
Losers of Offaly/Galway
First name drawn has home advantage,Draw next Monday morning on Morning Ireland
First drawn doesn't have home advantage as the teams are in 2 separate pots.
Quote from: Zooming around on June 14, 2017, 04:25:50 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on June 14, 2017, 02:56:33 PM
We are in the Munster group with Tipp,Lk and the losers of Cork/Waterford,provided we overcome Carlow
We can be drawn against
Dublin
Westmeath
Kk
Losers of Offaly/Galway
First name drawn has home advantage,Draw next Monday morning on Morning Ireland
First drawn doesn't have home advantage as the teams are in 2 separate pots.
From the GAA website
"The first team drawn out will be given home advantage in most circumstances."
Quote from: clonadmad on June 14, 2017, 05:15:09 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 14, 2017, 04:25:50 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on June 14, 2017, 02:56:33 PM
We are in the Munster group with Tipp,Lk and the losers of Cork/Waterford,provided we overcome Carlow
We can be drawn against
Dublin
Westmeath
Kk
Losers of Offaly/Galway
First name drawn has home advantage,Draw next Monday morning on Morning Ireland
First drawn doesn't have home advantage as the teams are in 2 separate pots.
From the GAA website
"The first team drawn out will be given home advantage in most circumstances."
Can't see how that could possibly work with two different pots.
If we get Dublin I'd bet we will be away. Played at home 2 years ago
Was that championship though?
Quote from: redsetanta on June 14, 2017, 10:16:05 PM
Was that championship though?
Qualifiers the same as this?
Qualifier in O'Moore Park.
My memory is giving me more trouble than i thought.
Carlow will definitely fancy their chances. On a high after a very comprehensive Christy Ring final and remember that they beat us at U21 level in both 2015 and 2016 which included most our current senior team. I would be delighted with any sort of a win to be honest. I do think that if we approach the game with the same intensity as we did for the Wexford game we will get through. We didn't have the class or power to handle Wexford but it wasn't for lack of fight we lost.
Injury story not great again. We have had no luck this year and don't have the depth to handle losses.
Quote from: clonadmad on June 14, 2017, 05:15:09 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 14, 2017, 04:25:50 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on June 14, 2017, 02:56:33 PM
We are in the Munster group with Tipp,Lk and the losers of Cork/Waterford,provided we overcome Carlow
We can be drawn against
Dublin
Westmeath
Kk
Losers of Offaly/Galway
First name drawn has home advantage,Draw next Monday morning on Morning Ireland
First drawn doesn't have home advantage as the teams are in 2 separate pots.
From the GAA website
"The first team drawn out will be given home advantage in most circumstances."
Bowl 1: Tipperary, Limerick, loser of Cork/Waterford, winner of Laois v Carlow playoff
Bowl 2: Kilkenny, Dublin, Westmeath, loser of Galway/Offaly.
A team is taken from both bowls and placed in a third bowl and the first team out of that bowl will have home advantage.
Draw can't take place until 26 June as if Laois win playoff, they can't draw Westmeath as they have already met but Carlow can play Westmeath if they beat Laois.
Cha a major doubt for Sunday.
Quote from: justinn on June 20, 2017, 01:23:55 PM
Cha a major doubt for Sunday.
Not good. This is a big challenge on Sunday. Injuries are a problem. I hope they are preparing well for a tough game and aren't complacent. Cha is the talisman for this team so plenty of lads will need to stand up.
I wish the county board hadn't put it out there that we are not providing a time and date for the Clare game in case there is a double header......
More the GAA, no?
Should be a great game on Sunday. Bonus for us to have a game in qualifiers after winning Christy Ring. Between Laois, Carlow, Antrim, Westmeath, Kerry, Meath there is nothing in it reallY. Any of those 6 can beat or lose to the other every time.
What's up with Cha, surely even a half fit Cha would play on Sunday?
Fair play to ye on a good win in Croke Park. As you said bonus territory and Laois won't be taking ye lightly after the big score ye put up against Antrim. We are affected by injuries as has been the case all of this year. Fortunately, Cahir Healy appears to be back in the fold. It will be good to be renewing aquaintances with Carlow but we should have enough in the tank to beat ye.
I watched the KK v Westmeath game last night. I think its the worst KK team that I have ever seen. If our seniors lost heavily to them the future is very very bleak indeed!
Sorry guys but its the reality of the situation we are in.
Quote from: Tobias on June 22, 2017, 04:21:51 AM
I watched the KK v Westmeath game last night. I think its the worst KK team that I have ever seen. If our seniors lost heavily to them the future is very very bleak indeed!
Sorry guys but its the reality of the situation we are in.
Last years Kk 21's were even poorer, still it does put things in perspective when our seniors can't beat this years 21 team.
How many of the team that played Wexford were U21? Most of our panel are under 21 so it's a little unfair. KK beat Westmeath who had already beaten us. It's not that far off the wall.
Young team named for Sunday. Giving Jack Kelly a run again. Killeen in at half back.
Shows how shallow the panel is. And no sign of Cahir, either. Could be tricky on Sunday.
There have been changes in the past to named teams so we'll see. Maybe Cahir isn't 100% but might get time at some stage. I really hope Picky starts to show some form. He was flying for Carlow IT this year and yet hasn't sparked for Laois. Would a spell taking the frees help??
Cha is a loss as he brings leadership qualities and he's all round abrasive nature getting in and upsetting opponents. At least there is continuity with the full back line and Ross and Paddy have been playing well. It will be tough tomorrow as there has rarely been more than a score difference when we've played in recent times.
Best of luck to the lads today. Be great to get the win.
Nail biting stuff today. Made it harder than it should have been. High wide count didn't help our cause. Got cleaned out in the majority of aerial battles but job done. Cleere was superb in the corner. Healy was all over field. Hopefully a favourable draw in the morning.
Sure we've lost 2 more hurlers for the next day, both leaders in this young team. We haven't had a full panel all championship and then we lose 2 more. Great character shown today. Down their captain for most of the game. You get absolute honesty with this group of players.
Yes, absolutely about the character - but you do worry about the next game, whoever they get. The cupboard is bare enough w/out losing King and Maher (though the latter has been off-colour lately). Thought Cleere was monumental, and Foyle pretty good, too. However, we were steeped to get the win: Carlow is our level now.
Even during Cheddars tenure we got nothing handy from Carlow.
Can't see us beating Dublin particularly with the game away from O'Moore Park. Doubt we would have won that game yesterday had it been in Cullen Park.
We have too many injuries at the moment and with King gone as well.
I thought Picky was doing well yesterday before his injury. With King gone he was back on the frees and that seemed to get him going. Maybe it would be worth putting him back on freetaking again. We were poor enough overall yesterday and had Carlow not been as wayward in front of the posts it might have been a different story. Heroic performances from alot of the younglads, it was practically an U21 team out there especially late on.
Fair play to Healy again though gave 100%, fought for every ball and showed great leadership.
Carlow in fairness are no mugs and Laois as people have noted were not at full strength (and will be even less so the next day). But in modern day hurling and football it is very difficult to come from behind and win when you are down a man, so hats off to our lads for coming through that, a test of character like that is better than any amount of training.
Facing the Dubs the next day will be very tough but Laois will go into it as total underdogs so can give at right go with no pressure or expectations on them. If both were full strength you would expect Dublin to win by 5/6 points so the reality is with Laois weakened that it should be a bit of a drubbing. However the dublin squad does not seem like a happy camp so you never know.
So the football is at 3 in Portlaoise and the hurling is at 7 in Parnell Park. Makes it very difficult for anyone who wants to make both. Not sure what number of people would be going to both but still think it's unfair to make people decide which they would prefer to go to! Any more casual supporters are definitely more likely to see the football purely for handiness sake!
So Picky has done his cruciate and will miss club championship.
Heading to Dublin without Picky, Willie Dunphy, Cha, Ross King. That's 4 guaranteed starters if fit. All forwards too. Add in the other injured panel/team members( Ben Conroy, Paddy Whelan, John Lennon etc) and it's not the ideal way to be heading to Parnell Park. The young lads are getting plenty of experience and hopefully they stay around for next year as they can only get better if they stick together. I think it will be a tough evening on Saturday.
Quote from: redsetanta on June 28, 2017, 12:20:37 PM
So Picky has done his cruciate and will miss club championship.
Heading to Dublin without Picky, Willie Dunphy, Cha, Ross King. That's 4 guaranteed starters if fit. All forwards too. Add in the other injured panel/team members( Ben Conroy, Paddy Whelan, John Lennon etc) and it's not the ideal way to be heading to Parnell Park. The young lads are getting plenty of experience and hopefully they stay around for next year as they can only get better if they stick together. I think it will be a tough evening on Saturday.
ANY county would struggle without 4/5 of their normal starting forwards - this is the worst I have ever seen.
Likely forwards: Sean Downey, Jack Kelly / Cahir, Aiden Corby, Mark Kavanagh, Neil Foyle, Aiden Dunphy with Cahir or Jack Kelly going to midfield alongside Paddy Purcell.
Backs: Rowland, Cleere, Bergin, Palmer, Killeen, Whelan, Collier.
Is Ryan Mullaney still injured? He featured for U21s so not sure why he is not involved.
Any chance Zane would help the cause in our hour of need??
Mullaney was listed on the programme last day, so can't be too far off fit.
The extent of our injury crisis. I feel sorry for Picky who was having a decent game when he got injured and would have been a ket man against Dublin.
Kelly set t ostay on for another year which is good for continuity.
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Dublin without Gough.
LAOIS: Enda Rowland; Dwane Palmer, Leigh Bergin, Lee Cleere; Eric Killeen, Matthew Whelan, Ciaran Collier; Jack Kelly, Paddy Purcell; Ryan Mullaney, Cahir Healy, Sean Downey; Mark Kavanagh, Neil Foyle, Aaron Dunphy
Hopefully the lads give a good account of themselves today. Mullaney doesn't have the pace but he can catch a ball so I can see puckouts heading his way. We are threadbare at this stage but they will give it 100% like they have in every gave this year. Physically we are too light all over the field but that will come in time with some of these young lads.
I'd be happy to leave Parnell Park if they do that and better still if they can keep with Dublin although it could be a very tough evening.
Best of luck to them all.
Best of luck to Laois.
An extremely young team, we showed great character to fight back with 14 men and nick the win against Carlow.
Dublin are overwhelming favourites for this one.
All that can be asked is that players battle to the end and give it their all.
We are decimated with injuries.
Best of luck to the hurlers, they will really be up against it today but if they can withstand the initial storm (as the Dubs will look to put this one to bed early) and play with the same heart and determination they did when down a man v Carlow then we have to be happy with that. It could get ugly.
Listened in on MR103 - Pity about the second half fade out, we seemed to give the first half and 10 minutes of the second half a right go of it. We didn't take our goal chances and when we conceded a goal ourselves the heads dropped.
Overall, a decent enough season considering the cards we were dealt - injuries and red cards. The lads seem to have bonded well and hopefully they'll stick at it for the long haul. I wouldn't object to giving Eamon Kelly another term. I think he has done well with a young and developing team.
Div1a status the one to maintain again next year, with Kerry gone down and Antrim replacing them it won't be easy considering the venues:
The fixtures should be:
V Antrim - Away (2015 Relegation Final in Portlaoise)
V Dublin - Home (2005 in Parnell Park)
V Galway - Home (2017 in Salthill)
V Limerick - Away (2017 in Portlaoise)
V Offaly - Away (2017 in Portlaoise)
We'd be targeting points from the Offaly and Antrim games, both away might be a tough task.
I know it looked like a right hammering on the scoreboard but I was really impressed by this team and very proud on Saturday. They were every bit as good as Dublin in the first half and the blocking, tackling and first touch was first class. They never gave up on a ball and took some super scores. Considering we were missing so many it was incredible. in the second half, they really did look jaded. Paddy Purcell and Sean Downey went out of the game and the Dublin half backs won every ball that was pucked out. It was a ridiculous situation where a pattern developed in that every ball was pucked out, usually caught by one of the Dublin half backs, passed out to the wing, popped over the bar and repeat. We never broke the pattern and couldn't win a ball.
There were many highlights this year but for me it is the emergence of so many lads who look like they have what it takes to step up to inter county level and compete. In particular, our full back line with Lee Cleere and Leigh Bergin really having to step up. Ciarán Collier, Ryan Mullaney, Sean Downey, Cian Taylor, Mark Kavanagh should all feature well into the future.
One other comment - Cahir Healy was outstanding. His energy, skill, passion and reading of the game for the full 70+ was a joy to watch. He has some engine. I hope he sticks with it for another few years. Especially good to see him with a free role around the middle.
I want to second what blueandwhite says above.
For the 40-45 mins the players were fantastic but then Dublin got the run of them. If they had a bit of experience they could have been able to mix up the puckouts or at least slow down the game a bit when Dublin were going through their purple patch, this bit of know-how will come in time though.
When you consider the retirements over the last few years and the crazy injury list we have been faced with, this entire year could (perhaps should) have been an absolute shocker. Its testament to these group that we finish off the year already looking forward to next years campaign and possibly pushing on further.
Would agree with the last two posters.
A great first half performance from Laois and had we not hit a few bad wides we could have gone in at the break in front. I had said if we came out of Parnell PArk after losing by 7 or 8 points I'd be happy enough. We were beaten by more but I was happy with the effort that the team put in. Young Killeen was very good in the first half and caught some ball and the full back line have been under severe pressure and come out fairly well.
Cahir was immense on Saturday and if we had 14 more Healys........
PAddy Purcell scored a couple of great points but the one criticism I would have is that there are times when he could pass instead of taking on shots that are not really on.
Physically we are not strong enough in a few positions but with lads only a year or two out of minor that's always going to be the case. Mullaney also got on a lot of ball in the first half and although he lacks pace he has plenty of skill and can give and take the hits.
As a Laois supporter you'd have to be happy with how the year went. Hopefully they do all stay together and we get some of the long term injured back and we give it a right go again next year.
With all the discussion on Creedon and the footballers I was just wondering what the general feelings with regard to Eamon Kelly.
Are supporters happy with his years work? Has he done a good job in trying circumstances with injuries etc
Was he tactically aware during games?
Is there any reason for him not staying on with the hurlers?
Personally I think it was a good job for the year and with a full panel to pick from it will be in the second year that we really see what he's made of. Very hard to judge progress this year with all the changes etc but next years league and championship should give us a clearer picture. I would like to see more put into the U21 grade as we've been very poor in this grade in recent times.
I think there were a number of occasions when he was tactically quite poor. (Versus Offaly, Versus Wexford in the championship, and our general defensive set up- we conceded huge scores)
However, overall the year has gone quite well. Won practically all of the winnable games and put up a decent showing in patches v Wexford and Dublin.
There is no reason not the keep him on.
There is also no reason not to give him the U21 job too. Huge crossover of players and in reality the U21s are ploughing their own furrow with substandard players due to the numbers involved with the seniors.
I am a fan to be honest.
He wasn't perfect and himself admitted some mistakes against Wexford in particular. However, it was very impressive the way he took what essentially would become our U21 team and gel them into a competitive unit, retaining our 1B status, winning all our round robin games, beating Carlow and producing 2 energetic displays against Wexford and Dublin. For most of the league and part of the championship we were missing many of our best players too.
We never looked flat or overtrained, and always showed fierce passion. We were also pretty positive and he seemed to get the most out of a lot of players. Appointing Ross King as captain for example was an inspired choice and certainly helped drive Ross to becoming one of our key players. He is also a realist in terms of what the team and the county need to do to compete.
In my view, he was the perfect man to follow Cheddar and would love to see him in the job for a few years. I believe he is humble enough to learn from any errors this year and creates a really positive environment for a young team.
Yeah, would agree with much of what was said above. It was a tough gig to come in after Cheddar, given Cheddar didn't really want to go, but he handled it fairly well.
I think the benefit of having a new man come in was that he wasn't afraid to try things that Cheddar might not have done. Leigh Bergin moving to full-back and King out to midfield might not have happened under Cheddar, but they both worked out really well. Cha to centre back was more controversial, but he did provide a bit of physicality there and you could see why he did it.
I hope he can persuade Cahir and Matthew Whelan to give it another year, because Matthew has a huge amount of service put in already, and Healy has said in the past he'd like to go back and play football. I think the panel needs the two of them there for another year at least, so hopefully they can stay with it.
When you look back at the Carlow game, we had no Cha or Willie Dunphy, King got sent off early, Palmer was off at half time and Picky wasn't in the game. To still get a win in those circumstances was a fair achievement and the players are obviously playing for him. I think he deserves another year, hopefully our CB agree.