Sunday, January 28 – Limerick (away)
Saturday, February 3 – Galway (home)
Saturday, February 17 – Antrim (home)
Sunday, February 25 – Offaly (away)
Sunday, March 4 – Dublin (home)
2 ways of looking at this.
A real tough start with games against what are basically Division 1A teams.
On the other hand games 3 & 4 are very winnable and could set us up to have a right good rattle off Dublin at home.
We need to beat Antrim the week before heading to Tullamore to have any chance over there. I see a lot of our younger players "wintering well". It is their own business to a degree, and I believe Laois were back fitness testing over the last week or two, but it is a little bit concerning!
Not a bad draw considering - three home games is to be welcomed and getting the AI champions here is a huge boost. It would be a wonderful start to put in a good performance against Limerick to begin the campaign, then shove it up to Galway at home keeping it tight again. That would have us in flying morale to take our first points off Antrim and hopefully follow it up with a win over old rivals Offaly. The Dublin game will be a tricky one considering the announcement of the new management team there, however it would be a good yardstick before planning for the "not-the-Leinster-Championship" group.
Its hard to believe that the first round of the league is just over 3 Months away. It will come around quick enough too. It sometimes takes Laois a while to get up and running with some lads deciding to take an extended break after the Summer. We cant really afford to have lads doing that this time around because if we are not ready this league could become a very daunting challenge. We have really failed to turn up against Limerick in the league over the years. They are not actually that good but they always seem to give us a hiding. I felt last year our management were extremely naïve against Limerick in the league in Portlaoise and we took an unmerciful beating from them. We left huge space between our half and full back lines without counter-acting it Limerick put us to the sword. I have time for the management but they really should be more tactically aware at times.
As regards personnel we are already without Cahir Healy, Picky Maher, Mark Kavanagh and Dwane Palmer for the league at least so it makes an already tough league that bit tougher, Id imagine these four would be starting if fit. We really need to get a few new guys on board or at least get the few guys that have not been committing themselves involved. Having lads on the subs for the County team that are only subs for their clubs is not good enough and every effort needs to be made to improve the make up of the panel. There should be incentive there this year in that if we get into the tier two final id imagine it will be in Croke park and following that we would have a big game in a preliminary quarter final to look forward to.
I feel it is so important to keep our senior hurling team at a reasonable level for a few years and hopefully some of these promising underage guys will drive us on to another level. We can only live in hope.
Anyone else feel the league schedule is a complete disgrace? Does it start even earlier next year? All group games plus Walsh Cup over by March 4th. Then we not even in the Leinster cship in 2018. Approx 8 competitive games from Jan to March. Why? Hurling is a supposed to be a summer game.
Also what is the structure of our new group of 'sub-standard' teams? Play everyone once? Is there a final? Does anyone even know?
Championship starts in May.
Any update on laois training? How is it going?
I hear Ben Conroy has gone in w/ the county footballers for next year, rather than the hurlers. Is that right?
Quote from: burdizzo on November 14, 2017, 05:53:37 PM
I hear Ben Conroy has gone in w/ the county footballers for next year, rather than the hurlers. Is that right?
Surely not? Ridiculous decision by him if true.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on November 14, 2017, 11:04:44 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on November 14, 2017, 05:53:37 PM
I hear Ben Conroy has gone in w/ the county footballers for next year, rather than the hurlers. Is that right?
Surely not? Ridiculous decision by him if true.
Looks like it, was at the trials
Playing Tipperary in a challenge in Puckane,10/12 2pm
First game in the Walsh cup is on December 30th!
Quote from: burdizzo on November 14, 2017, 05:53:37 PM
I hear Ben Conroy has gone in w/ the county footballers for next year, rather than the hurlers. Is that right?
Hearing this...Infairness he looked very decent for Ballyfin two years ago!
A loss for the hurlers and they are competing at a higher level and will probably have more supporters than the footballers this year. He was an automatic choice when fit so a bit of an odd one.
The old dual player conundrum again - he wanted to do both, but Kelly demanded commitment, and so he walked. I think it's a shame, and a big loss for the hurlers. Mind you, I don't think either team will have that much support.
Quote from: burdizzo on November 16, 2017, 05:39:12 PM
The old dual player conundrum again - he wanted to do both, but Kelly demanded commitment, and so he walked. I think it's a shame, and a big loss for the hurlers. Mind you, I don't think either team will have that much support.
I would back Kelly here. He is a guy that the hurling backroom team nursed back to fitness on a couple of occasions over the past two years, a demand such as the one above shouldn't be entertained, in my opinion!!
I believe Conroy was only approached to go with the footballers after he had been let go from the hurlers.
Conroy is a student-teacher I think (?) and couldn't commit to every session as demanded by Kelly.
I respect that Kelly is demanding Cheddar levels of commitment but it's very early in proceedings to be issuing such ultimatums.
I heard a rumour that Garoid Bourke may be coming on board this year. Be a massive addition.
Quote from: merman on November 17, 2017, 07:58:29 AM
I believe Conroy was only approached to go with the footballers after he had been let go from the hurlers.
Conroy is a student-teacher I think (?) and couldn't commit to every session as demanded by Kelly.
I respect that Kelly is demanding Cheddar levels of commitment but it's very early in proceedings to be issuing such ultimatums.
I heard a rumour that Garoid Bourke may be coming on board this year. Be a massive addition.
With the league starting earlier next year,it's not early at all
Quote from: clonadmad on November 17, 2017, 08:40:52 AM
Quote from: merman on November 17, 2017, 07:58:29 AM
I believe Conroy was only approached to go with the footballers after he had been let go from the hurlers.
Conroy is a student-teacher I think (?) and couldn't commit to every session as demanded by Kelly.
I respect that Kelly is demanding Cheddar levels of commitment but it's very early in proceedings to be issuing such ultimatums.
I heard a rumour that Garoid Bourke may be coming on board this year. Be a massive addition.
With the league starting earlier next year,it's not early at all
It's still early to be drawing that line in the sand with a 22/23 year old who has been very committed to hurling for Laois since development grades.
I believe he asked for a bit of flexibility until the new year; doesn't seem unreasonable.
I'd have a concern that being too rigid in what we demand from our county players will see the lifespan of our county hurlers continue to shorten....
Quote from: merman on November 17, 2017, 07:58:29 AM
I believe Conroy was only approached to go with the footballers after he had been let go from the hurlers.
Conroy is a student-teacher I think (?) and couldn't commit to every session as demanded by Kelly.
I respect that Kelly is demanding Cheddar levels of commitment but it's very early in proceedings to be issuing such ultimatums.
I heard a rumour that Garoid Bourke may be coming on board this year. Be a massive addition.
I hold my hands up if the above is true. That is not the version of events that is "out there".
It will be hard to get the full/true story I suppose. I'd imagine all parties will have their own spin on it.
Yeah, not the version I heard, either.
http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/278254
A few new additions to the panel. If James Ryan can carry his club form to the county he can be a good addition.
No sign of Gearoid Burke, Joe Campion, Liam Delaney, Colm Stapleton, Robbie Phelan, Aaron Bergin, Joe Phelan or Zane Keenan
Hopefully there will be no further deflections to the panel..
The Camross boys have been given an extra bit of time off.
Boys? You're hardly suggesting Zane will be there, too - are you?!
The way Mount Leinster Rangers were beaten yesterday might put a few things in perspective, however.
We need a few new backs, urgently. Surely there are a few from around the county that are worth a shot?
Leaving Cha in the forwards and assuming Cahir might not be back for a while, who are our best 6 backs?
Palmer, Bergin, Cleere, Collier, Killeen, Mullaney?
Matthew Whelan can't reasonably be expected to hold things together at this point in his career
Palmer will be out for a while with injury. Geroid Burke would be a big plus if he'd commit. Hopefully Leigh and Lee come back in as I was very impressed with both of them last year. Mullaney is a committed and skillful hurler but he's very heavy and neither pacey or agile enough. Maybe the s & c work might help.
Is Tom Delaney back in?
What's the form w/ Cahir Healy? I know he's injured, but will he be w/ the hurlers again this year, does anyone know?
Quote from: burdizzo on November 20, 2017, 11:14:14 AM
Boys? You're hardly suggesting Zane will be there, too - are you?!
The way Mount Leinster Rangers were beaten yesterday might put a few things in perspective, however.
Not sure what way you added that particular 1+1 but you certainly didn't get 2... it was mentioned on Laois Today
Yeah, well, it was a bit facetious all right, but the previous poster -Tobias - had mentioned Zane Keenan, so...
Slight aside, but if Aidan Corby doesn't get U21 Hurler of the Year it is all a cod!
Almost single handedly dragged an average Clough Ballacolla team to the final. Dragged them through the second half last week and led a serious charge at coming back on Saturday.
Some really excellent performances.
Why wouldn't Zane be asked back in? He would certainly add to the midfield/forward options.
I guess the question is..would he come back. Even though he is still only 29, if he doesn't go back this year he probably never will and once he hits 30 he probably never will.
He might decide to give it one more year with the potential incentive of playing the tier 2 final in croke park.
Others from Camross are Ciaran Collier Dwane Palmer from last year. Hopefully Gearoid Burke. Id also have a look at Joe Phelan and Mark Dowling.
Its a pity not to see Joe Campion, Liam Delaney, Robbie Phelan, Aaron Bergin and maybe Stephen Phelan not in there.
Quote from: burdizzo on November 20, 2017, 07:08:54 PM
What's the form w/ Cahir Healy? I know he's injured, but will he be w/ the hurlers again this year, does anyone know?
He is out until late spring at the earliest, I cannot see him get back to 100% in time and playing any Laois hurling in 2018.
I think I read somewhere that Eric Kileen got U21 player of the year!
Quote from: redsetanta on November 21, 2017, 10:56:11 AM
I think I read somewhere that Eric Kileen got U21 player of the year!
Totally deserved too. Other standouts for me in the competition were Robbie Phelan, Paddy McCane, Jack Kelly, Aidan Corby and Aaron Bergin.
Eric looked more influential at midfield than he did in defence but was the difference for Rathdowney Errill when it mattered.
We seem to have a strong supply of forwards but very few backs that I can see coming through. Used to be the other way around historically in Laois.
What's Joe Campions situation? He played a couple of years ago. Is it work/college or lack of interest?
Zane sums up what is wrong in this county and it will never change....Likes of Cahilanne in the football too
Quote from: Unlaoised on November 22, 2017, 03:55:53 PM
Zane sums up what is wrong in this county and it will never change....Likes of Cahilanne in the football too
A man working two jobs is what's wrong with this county?
Laois hurlers playing Tipperary in a challenge match Saturday in kildangan Gaa grounds in Puckan at 2pm. Hopefully some decent preparation underway for the league ahead. Need to be more competitive with some plan at the back to cut out high scores we shipped in this year.
I believe Burke won't be in this year, after all.
Quote from: Unlaoised on November 22, 2017, 03:55:53 PM
Zane sums up what is wrong in this county and it will never change....Likes of Cahilanne in the football too
Paul Cahillane is back in with the footballers this year I believe..
Quote from: burdizzo on December 06, 2017, 11:43:01 PM
I believe Burke won't be in this year, after all.
Disappointing to hear that. Are there any notable additions to the panel at all?
Quote from: Helix on December 06, 2017, 10:50:43 PM
Laois hurlers playing Tipperary in a challenge match Saturday in kildangan Gaa grounds in Puckan at 2pm. Hopefully some decent preparation underway for the league ahead. Need to be more competitive with some plan at the back to cut out high scores we shipped in this year.
Tipperary will be well depleted
Cathal Barrett, James Barry, Ronan Maher, Pádraic Maher, Patrick Maher, Seamus Callanan, John McGrath, Brendan Maher and Noel McGrath all gone on the All Star Tour
Laois down 1-11 to 0-00 at one stage
Ht now 1-11 to 0-04
3-27 to 12 Full time
What sort of team did Laois have out.
Enda Rowland,
Donnacha Hartnett,
Leigh Bergin,
Podge Lawlor,
Colm Stapleton,
Liam Delaney,
Eric Killeen,
James Ryan,
Paddy Purcell,
Éanna Lyons,
Jack Kelly,
Cian Taylor,
Aaron Bergin,
Charles Dwyer,
Willie Dunphy.
http://www.tipperarystar.ie/news/sport/286393/ger-browne-fires-3-7-as-tipperary-dismantle-laois-in-a-senior-hurling-challenge-at-puckane.html#.WiwRpuTpnnU.facebook
This game highlights how shallow our pool of hurlers is. We still havent recovered from the early retirements of the likes of Butch Stapleton, John A Delaney, Joe Fitz etc. Very young panel. We really lack a core group of 24 to 30 year olds. A good few starting with Laois are not even the mainstay of their club teams yet. Tipp demolished us with their 2nd string.
It'll hardly be Laois's first team, either, will it?
Are you seriously suggesting that Laois with their full compliment would get closer to Tipp with their full compliment.
Tipp had 2 starters from this years all ireland semi,starting and they gave lads who would be considered good club hurlers a run out yesterday.
I'd fear the margin would be even greater.
Of course not, but it should be mentioned we were missing a few, too.
Anyone at the game? Anyone show well?
Westmeath gave a full Tipp team a good rattle in the championship last year. Man for man we are better than Westmeath.
Quote from: Tobias on December 11, 2017, 03:11:16 AM
Westmeath gave a full Tipp team a good rattle in the championship last year. Man for man we are better than Westmeath.
[/quote
Not trying to get into an argument here but why the assumption that we are man for man better than Westmeath, I would assume we are but that it would be close with Westmeath having better underage players. I think traditionally Laois should be better but and definitely would not be an expert in Hurling but I am not sure there is any gap between Laois & Westmeath.
Quote from: Tobias on December 11, 2017, 03:11:16 AM
Westmeath gave a full Tipp team a good rattle in the championship last year. Man for man we are better than Westmeath.
You are delusional if you think Laois at the minute would get within 12/15 points of Tipperary
What did Dublin beat us by this year?
How much of a hiding did Tipp then dish out to Dublin?
Relax lads, its December. We beat Kerry last weekend, I think we play Westmeath soon. Its just about getting games, fitness and exposing lads to the levels required. Go 'asy.
5 of the 6 backs picked are not regular starters. Good to see them getting a run on what must have been a tough day.
Even when we had 'good' teams, we always get hammered by Tipp. I remember one exception where they only beat us by a few points and that was more than 20 years ago.
Quote from: clonadmad on December 11, 2017, 09:33:44 AM
Quote from: Tobias on December 11, 2017, 03:11:16 AM
Westmeath gave a full Tipp team a good rattle in the championship last year. Man for man we are better than Westmeath.
You are delusional if you think Laois at the minute would get within 12/15 points of Tipperary
What did Dublin beat us by this year?
How much of a hiding did Tipp then dish out to Dublin?
My point is if Westmeath can do it we should be able to (albeit a once off). IMO we are better than Westmeath, as results show we have consistently beaten them in league and championship.
Its not even the new year and the pessimism is almost at max level.
We're a very pessimistic county tbf
So called weaker teams always have a chance in a one off game however it's rare if ever they beat one of the better counties. Fair enough Westmeath gave Tipp a right battle but we did the same with Galway for two years in a row and also went toe to toe with Clare.
Tobias is right. aside from U21 level we have had the upper hand on them particularly at senior where it counts most.
Also regarding the Dublin game last year we competed very well up to half time with only half a team of regular starters due to injury and suspension.
Quote from: Tobias on December 12, 2017, 03:26:05 AM
Quote from: clonadmad on December 11, 2017, 09:33:44 AM
Quote from: Tobias on December 11, 2017, 03:11:16 AM
Westmeath gave a full Tipp team a good rattle in the championship last year. Man for man we are better than Westmeath.
You are delusional if you think Laois at the minute would get within 12/15 points of Tipperary
What did Dublin beat us by this year?
How much of a hiding did Tipp then dish out to Dublin?
My point is if Westmeath can do it we should be able to (albeit a once off). IMO we are better than Westmeath, as results show we have consistently beaten them in league and championship.
Its not even the new year and the pessimism is almost at max level.
Far from pessimistic but grounded in reality.
The way I see it there are 3 distinct groupings within the "elite" hurling counties at the minute
Group 1 Kerry,Westmeath,Offaly and Laois
Group 2 Dublin,Wexford,Cork,Limerick,Clare and Kilkenny
Group 3 Tipperary,Waterford and Galway
Laois should be aiming to dominate group 1 and be looking to get into a position in group 2 where we are very competitive and taking the odd scalp in the next 2/3 years
The gap between 2 and 3 is alot closer than the gap between 1 and 2.
We will see how the hurling league and championship goes this year to see if we are improving. We cannot afford any injuries or suspensions like last year as we simply don't have the strength in depth.
You'll hardly get a year w/out a significant injury.
Also, I think there is a far bigger gap between the notional group 2 and 3, than 1 and 2. Any of that third group could expect a decent hammering off any of group 2, whereas the same cannot be said of any group 2 team playing one of the top three.
In fairness we lost 4 starting forwards for the Dublin game last year. King, Maher, Cha and Willie Dunphy. A small county can't compete with players of that calibre missing.
https://www.laoistoday.ie/2017/12/16/watch-brilliant-podge-lawlor-snapchat-takeover-laois-hurlers-help-raise-e100k-homeless/ (https://www.laoistoday.ie/2017/12/16/watch-brilliant-podge-lawlor-snapchat-takeover-laois-hurlers-help-raise-e100k-homeless/)
Funny man Podge Lawlor!
Any word if Ben Conroy back with hurlers? Football panel was cut at weekend. Would be good addition if he's back!
First game of new campaign tomorrow.
Few new faces in and King captain again for the year. Good to see Joe Phelan of Camross in the team.
KK in O'Moore Park tomorrow evening under lights. Most probably an U21 team however most of the Laois team will be of the same age so a good test for them. Not often we get to play the cats and hopefully the lads are up for the challenge.
Team vs Kilkenny tonight:
Eoin Fleming (Borris-Kilcotton)
Joe Phelan (Camross)
Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe)
Lee Cleere (Clough-Ballacolla)
Jack Kelly (Rathdowney-Errill)
James Ryan (Rathdowney-Errill)
Eric Killeen (Rathdowney-Errill)
Paddy Purcell (Rathdowney-Errill)
Liam Delaney (Abbeyleix)
Cian Taylor (Portlaoise)
Cha Dwyer (Ballinakill)
Aidan Corby (Clough-Ballacolla)
Podge Delaney (The Harps)
Eanna Lyons (Ballyfin)
Ciarán Collier (Camross)
Throw-in is at 7pm in OMP.
Best of luck to the lads. Going to be a tough examination.
How's Ross' injury?
KK really racking up the scores in the second half. Sounds like it was reasonable competitive for the first 15mins or so.
well that was desperate stuff tonight against an experimental Kilkenny team. you can make all the excuses you want, if Westmeath were playing that KK team, the game would have been in the melting pot with ten mins to go, and at best it would have been a single digit win for kk.
I fear we are going to get some unmerciful trimmings in the league.
what is so annoying is that the set up is costing serious money and in this age of virtually professional backroom staff, they should be able to prepare a team to give a makeshift opponent a proper test on home soil, instead of getting a 25pts plus tonking.
these players have been training for the last 8 weeks or so.............I predict any couple of ordinary guys could have gone round the county yesterday and assembled a team without training that would have given a better account than that tonight.
the professional age of GAA is simply squeezing the last flickers of hope out of small counties such as our own.
As far as I can see jerseys are earned in Kk on back of club form. These lads getting a chance are hungry to impress and hell bent on taking their chance. Laois on the other hand are handing jerseys to lads who havent proved themselves at club level nevermind county.
Just curious to know who you would have in there that hasn't been asked already. What players are better than the current squad?
Please don't include lads that were asked and declined or lads that are injured at the moment.
For anyone at the game last night, of the new lads who performed well for Laois?
Lee Cleere, Eric Killeen in spots and maybe Paddy Purcell
The rest were just not at the races last night...quite frightening the difference in skills,movement,awareness,catching under the high ball
What training has been done in the last 8 weeks? Couldn't see it folks
Quote from: redsetanta on January 04, 2018, 10:02:31 AM
Just curious to know who you would have in there that hasn't been asked already. What players are better than the current squad?
Please don't include lads that were asked and declined or lads that are injured at the moment.
Apologies I was lamenting the overall current standard in Laois that allows this to happen not the players themselves.
Donnchadh Hartnett played very well when he came in to be fair.
I'd take a chance on moving Lee Cleere to the wing; he lacks the height and I appreciate we're short corner-back options, especially with Palmer out, but he's an out and out half-back for me. I'd want him in the game more.
Eric Kileen looks a definite starter now too; perhaps in midfield.
I thought Podge Delaney tried hard and showed a little. Jack Kelly and Aidan Corby have come on massively this last 12 months. Will likely see time off the bench (at least) come championship.
Moving James Ryan to the half-forward line or midfield will help; centre-back isn't going to work for him.
Cha was well-shackled but we see how well he performs at club level; should be hard to handle at Tier 2 Level.
Does anyone know how the two Whelans are?
We've a tough league coming up but as always, our year will be defined by Championship; the Round Robin should afford us 5 very competitive games.
If we can get our injured bodies back, we have a chance but it's going to be a mighty scrap. I'd imagine Westmeath will start as favourites. We might have the edge in terms if fire-power but they are defensively solid and that should stand to them over the 5 games.
I'm quite satisfied with the way the championship restructure has worked; we're better served in the second Tier than in Leinster. This panel is just not physically able for that level yet.
Wouldn't mind seeing us line up something like:
Rowland
Hartnett/Phelan
Bergin
Palmer
Downey/Whelan
Whelan
Cleere
Purcell
Killeen/Healy/Stapleton
Collier/Conroy/Ryan
King
Dwyer
Maher
Foyle
Dunphy (A/W)/Scully/Kavanagh
How far off fitness is Palmer and Picky?
Lets be honest lads, this was the first competitive game of the season a week after Christmas against a team of players who kow they have to bust a gut to get a smell of the KK jersey come the league and championship.
Of that KK team how many will start come the league? Can the same be said of the Laois team? Stay in 1b and play the tier 2 final in Croke Park in the summer is all we should be concerned about right now.
The professionalism of the game and the widening gap is for a different argument.
Quote from: SpeculativeEffort on January 03, 2018, 11:58:30 PM
As far as I can see jerseys are earned in Kk on back of club form. These lads getting a chance are hungry to impress and hell bent on taking their chance. Laois on the other hand are handing jerseys to lads who havent proved themselves at club level nevermind county.
A lot of truth in this but they have to try something. 2 of the half back line yesterday play in midfield or are forwards for their clubs. We have so few backs at inter county standard that we have to experiment. Then there is a host of guys who are essentially kids that don't have experience at any level outside minor, including club hurling at a high level. I think the biggest challenge we have is that we have never found replacements for the likes of Joe Fitz, Brian Campion, Butch or John A Delaney. We have plenty of up and coming forwards. Leigh Bergin and Lee Cleere will be really good but they are so young and don't have the physicality yet. It is a strange problem as it is usually harder to find good forwards than backs.
Certainly for a supposed mickey mouse Walsh cup game lot of the KK guys hugely up for it 3,8,11,13,14,19 serious operators standing out
Who was No.26 for Laois came on Late?
Our last two subs were Brian O' Mara and Conor Phelan.
Tks Merman
Quite thin guy but showed a bit of skill and pace plus a nice score
Quote from: Laoisguy on January 04, 2018, 01:35:15 PM
Tks Merman
Quite thin guy but showed a bit of skill and pace plus a nice score
I'd say that's Steven Dunphy. Borris/Kilcotton; would be only 19. Fine prospect.
Brother of Aaron's I presume. Two very good minors.
Quote from: redsetanta on January 04, 2018, 02:33:12 PM
Brother of Aaron's I presume. Two very good minors.
Twins I think. Were on same minor teams.
There are quite a few notable absentee's atm. Matthew and Paddy Whelan, Aaron Dunphy, Tom Delaney,
Injured - Cahir Healy, PJ Scully, Dwane Palmer, Picky Maher, Ryan Mullaney, Mark Kavanagh, Neil Foyle, Ross King
There are not that many guys that are not on the panel that could come in and improve the thing, Gearoid Burke and Joe Campion would be good additions but I cant think of many others? Eoin Reilly is out of the country. Possibly Stephen Phelan and Robbie Phelan.
Im excluding the retired guys, that's assuming Zane Keenan is retired too.
Assuming all are fit for the championship id go with this;
E Rowland
C Healy
L Bergin
J Phelan/D Palmer
C Collier
M Whelan
L Cleere
P Purcell
J Ryan
R King
W Dunphy
C Dwyer
P Maher
N Foyle
PJ Scully/M Kavanagh
W Dunphy at centre forward might seem strange but I think he is strong, quick, can hurl and has a good work-rate. Looks tied up in the corner a lot of the time, id like to see him a bit more involved.
The following would give that team fair competition for places - S Downey, E Killeen, A Dunphy, B Conroy, P Whelan, C Stapleton
Laois beat Carlow in Carlow IT today.
Wasn't at it but both teams minus a lot of regulars.
The match was actually in the centre of excellence and laois won by 30pts to 14. Carlow minus Richard coady .James doyle and a brother of marty kavanagh. Laois minus leigh bergin..cian..roddy. .cha. willie dunphy and excluding picky. .cahir. .mark kav. .pj scully. So overall was good to have a look at younger lads of squad
Quote from: mountrath1 on January 13, 2018, 11:38:54 PM
The match was actually in the centre of excellence and laois won by 30pts to 14. Carlow minus Richard coady .James doyle and a brother of marty kavanagh. Laois minus leigh bergin..cian..roddy. .cha. willie dunphy and excluding picky. .cahir. .mark kav. .pj scully. So overall was good to have a look at younger lads of squad
I was badly misinformed. I heard Leigh Bergin had a great game at full back!!
Thanks Mountrath1
What kinda of team are we looking at for the first round of the league taking into account injury's etcs
Quote from: Goku on January 15, 2018, 09:54:29 AM
What kinda of team are we looking at for the first round of the league taking into account injury's etcs
A very inexperienced team with not much size about it from what I can see but hopefully they can prove the doubters wrong!
Where are we with the injuries to Dwayne, Cahir and Picky? Will they see any league time at all and if not will they be available for the round robin?
The main objective will be to avoid being relegated. Two group wins should give us fourth place and avoid a relegation play off. We would need to beat Antrim and Offaly.
We are well capable of beating Antrim but Offaly are rejuvenated under Kevin Martin and where we lack size in our team the have it in abundance. Offaly gave a reasonably strong Kilkenny team a real fright at the weekend compared to our pitiful performance against a weaker KK team. Having said the I think we have as good hurlers as Offaly size albeit not as physical and experienced. We have to be looking to win both those games. Aside from that I really hope we don't ship some of the huge beatings that we have been getting in the league in the past few years. We really lie down and let some above average teams destroy us. Kerry beat Cork (I know it was Corks second string) by 10 points on Sunday, Offaly ran KK to 3 points and there were a few other good performances from the weaker counties in the early competitions this year. We don't seem to be able to do that at the moment. Offalys performance was a typical Offaly one in that they gave an utterly determined performance where they got in the faces of KK and weren't one bit afraid of the challenge.
Id like to see Laois have a bit more fire, a never say die attitude and a bit more determination in there play. These lads are putting in too much work and effort to go out and be slaughtered. That's the challenge for Eamonn Kelly (and his big backroom team) this year, if it doesn't work out well then the County board need to look at the money they are investing in County Managers and these high profile backroom team assistants.
I hope the lads achieve their goals for the year and steady the ship in 2018.
Playing Cuala today 1:30
Centre of Excellence
That match didn't go ahead by the way.
Great to see Cha in flying form in the Fitzgibbon scoring 6 from play against Mary Immaulate. Any ideas how the team will line out next Sunday?
We will be up against it i'd say down there!
In a perverse way, having Limerick and Galway first could be a blessing in disguise. While I really hope they are not humiliations, you would have to fear the worst with the number of players missing through injury. Getting these games out of the way might give time for lads to come back for the matches we are more likely to be competitive in.
I like how Roddy put it about our ambitions for the year - stay up in Div 1B and get to Croke park for the round robin final. Personally, I think we will be in the relegation decider again which we will win and will be either first or second in the round robin - fighting it out with Westmeath in Croker.
Please god the lads playing fitzgibbon come through unscathed . A lot going on for some lads in a short period of time these few weeks .
https://www.laoistoday.ie/2018/01/23/laois-hurling-manager-provides-injury-update-limerick-clash/ (https://www.laoistoday.ie/2018/01/23/laois-hurling-manager-provides-injury-update-limerick-clash/)
I assume Neil Foyle must be ok after being out for the Walsh Cup?
Anyone have a stab at a starting 15?
https://www.laoistoday.ie/2018/01/26/league-debuts-rathdowney-errill-duo-laois-hurling-team-named-limerick-clash/
The Laois team in full is: Enda Rowland (Abbeyleix); Lee Cleere (Clough-Ballacolla), Leigh Bergin (Shanahoe), Podge Lawlor (Ballinakill); Jack Kelly (Rathdowney-Errill), Matthew Whelan (Borris-Kilcotton), Eric Killeen (Rathdowney-Errill); Paddy Purcell (Rathdowney-Errill), James Ryan (Rathdowney-Errill); Ben Conroy (Slieve Bloom), Cha Dwyer (Ballinakill), Cian Taylor (Portlaoise); Ross King (Rathdowney-Errill), Neil Foyle (Borris-Kilcotton), Paddy McCane (Rathdowney-Errill)
The Limerick team is: Nickey Quaid; Tom Condon, Seamus Hickey, Richie English; Diarmaid Byrnes, Dan Morrissey, Paddy O'Loughlin; Cian Lynch, Paul Browne; Tom Morrissey, Darragh O'Donovan, Barry O'Connell; Aaron Gillane, Seamus Flanagan, Gearoid Hegarty
This is going to be savage physical examination for our lads. Going to be a huge ask to keep goals out; we'll need big performances from Roddy, Cha and Foyle to keep the score respectable. Limerick will score from distance so we can't filter everyone back; but if we leave our full-back line exposed then we could find ourselves in serious trouble.
I wouldn't be surprised to see a couple of changes either; I'd have thought Sean Downey would certainly start.
If we can come through the Limerick and Galway games with a points deficit of 20-25 points or less then I'd be pretty satisfied.
Cian Lynch in midfield will need to be watched. Will Roddy drop back to the centre as he played very well there lat year. The problem against Limerick last year was how much space the Limerick lads had and the time they were afforded to take shots at the posts. The chasing and harrying will have to be much better this time round.
Sounds like we've another bad enough injury with Lee Cleere going off.
Quote from: redsetanta on January 28, 2018, 02:56:59 PM
Sounds like we've another bad enough injury with Lee Cleere going off.
And Cha injured before the start. We seem to be without way too many starters. Cha, Cahir, Palmer, Kavanagh, Mullaney, Scully, Picky.
Played ok in spells today but the standard of our hurling was sloppy. Limerick were crisp and moved the ball well. We ran into trouble too often, missed easy chances and lost the ball too often. In fairness, the lads never stopped working. Leigh Bergin hurled very well as did Matthew and Lee Cleere until injured. The rest of the backs worked hard. Paddy Purcell and James Ryan held their own in the middle but were quite loose on their men. Ross did well on the frees but in general the forwards won't score much if they are going to take so much out of the ball before taking their shots.
No shortage of room for improvement but not terribly bad either. Tough assignment next week.
In fairness its a big improvement on last year which has to be a positive.
I would have to agree, its a big improvement on the last couple of years. Staying competitive with these teams considering all the players missing is the best we can hope for atm. When we have everyone back then maybe we could look to push on. Last year we shipped 6-33 to Limerick and lost by a whopping 29 points compared to 10 yesterday away from home. Sure we have lots to work on but id dwell on the positives from yesterday instead of the negatives. I think the fact that we went back training so early this year will hopefully stand to us as we seemed to be able to stay with Limerick for the duration yesterday and didn't fall away with 20 minutes to go. If we had all our players available yesterday I really believe we would have got very close to Limerick. We need another big performance next week and if Antrim can give Galway a game we can too.
As for the injuries Dwane, Picky and Cahir are out for the league at least hopefully they will make it back for some of the championship. I think Cha, Mark Kav, PJ Scully and Ryan Mullaney will be back in a few weeks but next weekend will come too soon. Lee Cleere injured his hip according to Eamonn Kelly so hopefully he wont be out for too long.
There has been no sign of Aaron Dunphy or Paddy Whelan this year, I assume they are not involved or are they injured too?
Quote from: Tobias on January 29, 2018, 03:48:51 AM
I would have to agree, its a big improvement on the last couple of years. Staying competitive with these teams considering all the players missing is the best we can hope for atm. When we have everyone back then maybe we could look to push on. Last year we shipped 6-33 to Limerick and lost by a whopping 29 points compared to 10 yesterday away from home. Sure we have lots to work on but id dwell on the positives from yesterday instead of the negatives. I think the fact that we went back training so early this year will hopefully stand to us as we seemed to be able to stay with Limerick for the duration yesterday and didn't fall away with 20 minutes to go. If we had all our players available yesterday I really believe we would have got very close to Limerick. We need another big performance next week and if Antrim can give Galway a game we can too.
As for the injuries Dwane, Picky and Cahir are out for the league at least hopefully they will make it back for some of the championship. I think Cha, Mark Kav, PJ Scully and Ryan Mullaney will be back in a few weeks but next weekend will come too soon. Lee Cleere injured his hip according to Eamonn Kelly so hopefully he wont be out for too long.
There has been no sign of Aaron Dunphy or Paddy Whelan this year, I assume they are not involved or are they injured too?
Ciaran Collier is another guy who played well last year in the half back line and I would have thought he would be involved??
Maybe Collier is injured because he did come back.
The one benefit to having so many players missing at the moment is that it allows Kelly to build his squad and give lads an opportunity to stake their claim for a starting jersey. With the revised championship format, Laois will use approximately 25 lads (rotation and injury) in those games so getting everyone game time in the league is paramount. It is a pity though we are missing so many front-line players at the moment. With a full strength team at home against a very rusty Galway team it would have been a great opportunity to take a notable scalp.
It was encouraging to see this Laois team stay at it until the end and restrict Limerick to one goal. Last year we shipped a huge amount of goals and it was pleasing not to see Limerick tag on goals when they built up a 6/7 point lead near end of first half. Hopefully Galway can be restricted in a similar manner at the weekend.
Any word on how long Cha will be out for?
I think Eamon Kelly suggested it'd be about three or four weeks in the Leinster...
A selector resigning? Strange?
Family committments was the reason given.
You'd wonder what a selectors role is nowadays considering the back room team most managers bring with them.
Quote from: redsetanta on January 31, 2018, 03:35:38 PM
Family committments was the reason given.
You'd wonder what a selectors role is nowadays considering the back room team most managers bring with them.
Need at one Laois man who knows the county hurling scene inside out. Personally, would like to see a Camross man get the job (Arien Delaney??). Really disappointing representation on the Senior hurling team from our County Champions.
Isn't Owen Coss in there?
Poorly represented alright but hasn't it been that way for a long time now.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on January 31, 2018, 03:41:59 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on January 31, 2018, 03:35:38 PM
Family committments was the reason given.
You'd wonder what a selectors role is nowadays considering the back room team most managers bring with them.
Need at one Laois man who knows the county hurling scene inside out. Personally, would like to see a Camross man get the job (Arien Delaney??). Really disappointing representation on the Senior hurling team from our County Champions.
He's managing in Offaly.
Delaney had accepted the Clareen job and was poached very late by Shinrone.
I see the bookies are only givng Laois +12 against Galway. Galways performance against Antrim coupled with ours against Limerick has it at that. We'd normally be a few points more. A lot of GAlways big guns are not back as of yet and they must be a bit rusty. Can we do similar to Antrim and keep them to single figures.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on January 31, 2018, 03:41:59 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on January 31, 2018, 03:35:38 PM
Family committments was the reason given.
You'd wonder what a selectors role is nowadays considering the back room team most managers bring with them.
Need at one Laois man who knows the county hurling scene inside out. Personally, would like to see a Camross man get the job (Arien Delaney??). Really disappointing representation on the Senior hurling team from our County Champions.
He has no interest in Laois. It's easy know that from the number of Camross lads on the panel in recent years
Quote from: Zooming around on February 02, 2018, 02:48:29 PM
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on January 31, 2018, 03:41:59 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on January 31, 2018, 03:35:38 PM
Family committments was the reason given.
You'd wonder what a selectors role is nowadays considering the back room team most managers bring with them.
Need at one Laois man who knows the county hurling scene inside out. Personally, would like to see a Camross man get the job (Arien Delaney??). Really disappointing representation on the Senior hurling team from our County Champions.
He has no interest in Laois. It's easy know that from the number of Camross lads on the panel in recent years
Very unfair statement.
I'd be surprised if he wasn't the next Laois manager. I'd back him to do an excellent job as well.
Quote from: merman on February 02, 2018, 06:57:30 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on February 02, 2018, 02:48:29 PM
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on January 31, 2018, 03:41:59 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on January 31, 2018, 03:35:38 PM
Family committments was the reason given.
You'd wonder what a selectors role is nowadays considering the back room team most managers bring with them.
Need at one Laois man who knows the county hurling scene inside out. Personally, would like to see a Camross man get the job (Arien Delaney??). Really disappointing representation on the Senior hurling team from our County Champions.
He has no interest in Laois. It's easy know that from the number of Camross lads on the panel in recent years
Very unfair statement.
I'd be surprised if he wasn't the next Laois manager. I'd back him to do an excellent job as well.
Always been a supporter of his, but his behaviour around the Laois minor job last year, added to rumours of his "accepting" several different jobs in Offaly this year won't help him!
There was more to the minor job than meets the eye Keyser. He wasn't trying to screw the County Board or let the minor panel (with his son involved) down.
He's taking on 2 senior teams this year, one in Tipp and one in Offaly. Both clubs have agreed to it.
I'm pretty sure the role in Tipp is part of a joint management team . I May stand corrected !
Can see him back with Laois in the near enough future .
Quote from: merman on February 02, 2018, 07:30:33 PM
There was more to the minor job than meets the eye Keyser. He wasn't trying to screw the County Board or let the minor panel (with his son involved) down.
He's taking on 2 senior teams this year, one in Tipp and one in Offaly. Both clubs have agreed to it.
And do you know how late he pulled out of the minor job, having "agreed" to take it?
Also, do you know how many jobs he "agreed" to take in Offaly alone this year?
I have nothing against him, have always stated a case for him on herre, and he is not obliged to get involved in Laois teams.
BUT, there seems to be a pattern of behaviour emerging!
He had an agreement with Killenaule but ditched them when Kiladangan made him an offer and is also now with Shinrone
Quote from: clonadmad on February 03, 2018, 09:33:30 AM
He had an agreement with Killenaule but ditched them when Kiladangan made him an offer and is also now with Shinrone
He'd agreed to take the Seir Kieran (Clareen) job as well, before Shinrone. Must be getting good money from Shinrone, because they won't be within an ass' roar of a county final, whereas Seir Kieran will be in the top 2-3 teams.
Heard he was offered 2 years with Shinrone. Wouldn't be as big a club as Clareen but wouldn't surprise me if he massively improves them.
Good effort from Laos this evening
Feckin scalionater ref.
Brave display from the lads with so many missing still. Great spirit evident.
Anyway, the goal was not to get destroyed in the first 2 games. Job done.
Really encouraging showing. I know Galway were poor on the night but this was the first time I could see signs that Eamon Kelly has a clear plan and vision for taking Laois forward.
Our puckout strategy worked a treat. We don't have players who can consistently win primary possession so we need to find a more nuanced approach. Enda Rowland is genuinely top-quality and his ability to land ball in front of our runners gained us a foothold in the game. Adding Cha and Picky to that half-forward line should help us further.
Our defence hurled manfully and I thought Matthew Whelan had a fine game. Eric Killeen is a class act and a super prospect. Hartnett and Cleere held up well; Conor Whelan barely got a sniff but blasted 2 crucial goals.
Two tough games down; full focus now on three big opportunities. One win would be underwhelming; two satisfactory; three a dream....but a more realistic one on tonight's showing.
I believe Palmer is still a good bit away from contention. Does anyone know anything about Healy? I think those two would help shore up our backline massively.
As blueandwhite1 said, the spirit of that panel is clearly evident. I thought Willie Dunphy typified a lot that was good about the performance; really hard-working and honest showing but mixed it with fine ability too. A full-forward line of King-Foyle-Dunphy could do serious damage come Championship.
Good synopsis Merman. Wasn't at the game but that sounds like what Jack Nolan was describing!
Sounds a bit crazy to be saying after two losses, but we are in a great position with 3 games to go- and an ideal fixture list- Antrim and Dublin would be very tough away, hurling in Tullamore is no big deal.
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 03, 2018, 11:01:49 PM
Good synopsis Merman. Wasn't at the game but that sounds like what Jack Nolan was describing!
Sounds a bit crazy to be saying after two losses, but we are in a great position with 3 games to go- and an ideal fixture list- Antrim and Dublin would be very tough away, hurling in Tullamore is no big deal.
We'll bate ye.
Extra motivation as well with Kelly jumping ship due to business reasons, and then jumping on yer ship.
I hope we hammer ye, not because ye're Leix, but because of yer manager.
Quote from: LooseCannon on February 04, 2018, 09:04:17 AM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 03, 2018, 11:01:49 PM
Good synopsis Merman. Wasn't at the game but that sounds like what Jack Nolan was describing!
Sounds a bit crazy to be saying after two losses, but we are in a great position with 3 games to go- and an ideal fixture list- Antrim and Dublin would be very tough away, hurling in Tullamore is no big deal.
We'll bate ye.
Extra motivation as well with Kelly jumping ship due to business reasons, and then jumping on yer ship.
I hope we hammer ye, not because ye're Leix, but because of yer manager.
Ye'll bate nothing ye fat arsed bastards. We'll bate ye like the redhaired illegitimate children of a halting site.
Quote from: Don Draper on February 04, 2018, 10:00:35 AM
Quote from: LooseCannon on February 04, 2018, 09:04:17 AM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 03, 2018, 11:01:49 PM
Good synopsis Merman. Wasn't at the game but that sounds like what Jack Nolan was describing!
Sounds a bit crazy to be saying after two losses, but we are in a great position with 3 games to go- and an ideal fixture list- Antrim and Dublin would be very tough away, hurling in Tullamore is no big deal.
We'll bate ye.
Extra motivation as well with Kelly jumping ship due to business reasons, and then jumping on yer ship.
I hope we hammer ye, not because ye're Leix, but because of yer manager.
Ye'll bate nothing ye fat arsed b**tards. We'll bate ye like the redhaired illegitimate children of a halting site.
You know best, I suppose.
We'll see!
Quote from: LooseCannon on February 04, 2018, 10:11:52 AM
Quote from: Don Draper on February 04, 2018, 10:00:35 AM
Quote from: LooseCannon on February 04, 2018, 09:04:17 AM
Quote from: Keyser Söze on February 03, 2018, 11:01:49 PM
Good synopsis Merman. Wasn't at the game but that sounds like what Jack Nolan was describing!
Sounds a bit crazy to be saying after two losses, but we are in a great position with 3 games to go- and an ideal fixture list- Antrim and Dublin would be very tough away, hurling in Tullamore is no big deal.
We'll bate ye.
Extra motivation as well with Kelly jumping ship due to business reasons, and then jumping on yer ship.
I hope we hammer ye, not because ye're Leix, but because of yer manager.
Ye'll bate nothing ye fat arsed b**tards. We'll bate ye like the redhaired illegitimate children of a halting site.
You know best, I suppose.
We'll see!
How you keeping auld stock?
Very good showing last night. Our naive nature in front of both goals is killing us. We're missing great goal chances and coughing up silly goals. Overall though the application and endeavor was outstanding.
Quote from: Zooming around on February 04, 2018, 08:04:23 PM
Very good showing last night. Our naive nature in front of both goals is killing us. We're missing great goal chances and coughing up silly goals. Overall though the application and endeavor was outstanding.
Yes I agree great game plan and super work rate.
In front of goal we seem to take the wrong option when goals are there for the taken...
A lot of positives to be taken from a heart warming performance on a cold cold night in O'Moores Park
https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/its-a-step-in-the-right-direction-eamonn-kelly (https://soundcloud.com/midlandssport/its-a-step-in-the-right-direction-eamonn-kelly)
Good to see Cha and Sean Downey performing well for Carlow IT and Mark Kav returning for LIT. I think its just the long term injuries now Picky, Cahir and Dwane. I think PJ Scully will come into contention in the next couple of weeks.
Theres no mention of Paddy Whelan, Aaron Dunphy or Ciaran Collier so im assuming they are not involved. Hopefully we can stay relatively injury free for a while at least.
Quote from: Tobias on February 08, 2018, 03:41:20 AM
Good to see Cha and Sean Downey performing well for Carlow IT and Mark Kav returning for LIT. I think its just the long term injuries now Picky, Cahir and Dwane. I think PJ Scully will come into contention in the next couple of weeks.
Theres no mention of Paddy Whelan, Aaron Dunphy or Ciaran Collier so im assuming they are not involved. Hopefully we can stay relatively injury free for a while at least.
Been told Conor Quinlan is training with the squad now, best of luck to him, picky will be a great addition, mccane getting a lot of chances too, if..if we can beat Antrim and maybe Dublin it puts us in a good situation as points difference with Offaly just may be inferior
Quote from: hurlingmad on February 08, 2018, 10:59:04 PM
Quote from: Tobias on February 08, 2018, 03:41:20 AM
Good to see Cha and Sean Downey performing well for Carlow IT and Mark Kav returning for LIT. I think its just the long term injuries now Picky, Cahir and Dwane. I think PJ Scully will come into contention in the next couple of weeks.
Theres no mention of Paddy Whelan, Aaron Dunphy or Ciaran Collier so im assuming they are not involved. Hopefully we can stay relatively injury free for a while at least.
Been told Conor Quinlan is training with the squad now, best of luck to him, picky will be a great addition, mccane getting a lot of chances too, if..if we can beat Antrim and maybe Dublin it puts us in a good situation as points difference with Offaly just may be inferior
Dublin will only get stronger as it goes on so that will be a big ask.... and antrim seem to be flying it!
Still all to play for not shipping two big beatings is a major plus and must give the squad confidence
Antrim do seem to be playing very well at the moment and if we can get the win we'll head to Tullamore on the same points as Offaly because I can't see them beating Galway next weekend. Our score difference is far batter this year than it was after heavy defeats to Limerick and Galway last year. Offaly have a good scoring difference on the back of their big win over Dublin.
There's been nothing between us and Offaly over the past few years so it should be 50/50. Dublin on the other hand have done us and I wouldn't want to be relying on a win there.
Will Cha be playing for CarlowIT today? If so I hope he's available for Saturday against Antrim.
Quote from: redsetanta on February 13, 2018, 10:41:08 AM
Will Cha be playing for CarlowIT today? If so I hope he's available for Saturday against Antrim.
Anyone at the match or have a good report. Cha scored a point and Downey was subbed according to the mainstream media reports.
Very important game tomorrow evening and no chat about it.
Antrim seem to have got their act together this year so will be formidable opponents. For our own progression a win is vitally important I feel particularly with the trip to Tullamore next week.
I assume Cha is fine to play as he's a real leader for this team. If they show the same agression and application as the Galway game they have every chance of getting the vital 2 points.
Lets hope it's a win and an injury free encounter.
Great crowd the last day in O'Moore Park albeit a good porportion from Galway. Hopefully the Laois supporters come out tomorrow and give these lads a boost. It would also be great if we had a goal or two to shout about!
Quote from: redsetanta on February 16, 2018, 12:50:10 PM
Very important game tomorrow evening and no chat about it.
Completely agree about the importance to the confidence of the team. Antrim surely see this as a chance to get points too so should be a great game. No idea who is available or not. Recent experience has typically been that lads who play Fitzgibbon mid week haven't been too hot come the inter county games. Would imagine a very similar team picked too the last 2 days out maybe with Cha and Mark Kavanagh in the reckoning.
Strange times - no one from Camross, Castletown, Portlaoise, or The Harps on the Leix team named for tonight. Instead, we have a Mountmellick lad starting - and fair play to him, too! Hoping they do the business tonight!
Decent win, sets the Offaly game up nicely. Anyone at the game? any match reports?
Yeah, nice enough win, but in truth, it should have been in the double figures as Leix must've squandered half a dozen good goal chances. King, I'd say, didn't miss a free all night, and the other forwards did well in patches. Aside from the lapse for the first goal, the backline did fairly well. Ones I hadn't expected a whole lot from that did well enough were Matthew Whelan, Donnacha Hartnett, and Podge Lawlor. Cha wasn't really himself at all, but still got a couple of points. He was moved into full forward in the second half.
However, Antrim were quite prone to simple mistakes, and their first touch was poor enough. They had a bit more heft than Laois, and a lot our lads lack size, but I suppose you work with what you have. In any case, they were way more skilful than Antrim tonight, but against the top teams this lack of size would matter much more.
Well summarized burdizzo.
Full back line played well and are improving. Matthew had one of his best games in years and looks really fit. Podge seems more suited to the half back line. Midfield were dominant. Worker Ryan looks like a lad playing inter county for years. The forwards played well in fits and starts. Roddy was flawless from frees. Young Comerford had a decent game. Fouled looks dangerous but needs to get on more ball. Ben doesn't look himself and seems to strike the ball at the wrong time. Cha looks well behind the others in terms of fitness but last night will bring him on. Was on a huge amount of ball in first half and scored a couple of nice points.
Subs made a difference when they came on. Downey scored a super point as did Mark Kavanagh from a sideline. Nice to have lads like Joe Phelan and Cían Taylor pushing for places.
All in all we are looking more mature and settled than last year. Although we are light we are not afraid to get stuck in and contest dirty ball. We are also winning loads of possession which we were poor at last year. Looking at Antrim would remind you how young our team are. Important win and can see our year being defined by matches against Antrim.
Well done to Laois on last nights result
In balance I think they deserved it but I thought the referee was pretty bias
Antrim scored more from play with Laois only hitting 7 points
20 dead ball scores, one good 65 and a beautiful side line cut from Kavanagh apart the rest was frees
Well done to King for hitting them over
Do you guys think It was a dirty match or enough to warrant 18 frees
Laois scored more than seven points from play. I can remember 9, and the GAA website has it at 10. However, I take your point - it wasn't a dirty match at all, and there were some harmless enough frees given. Wouldn't particularly say the ref was biased, though. It seems to be the way that the lower league games get the less experienced, and probably fussier, referees. Anyway, plenty of those frees were difficult enough, and King didn't miss any. And when you have a striker - Rowland - who can knock them over from well inside his own half, then your score from frees will go up.
Besides, I hear frees kept ye in it against Dublin?!
Quote from: burdizzo on February 18, 2018, 02:11:56 PM
Laois scored more than seven points from play. I can remember 9, and the GAA website has it at 10. However, I take your point - it wasn't a dirty match at all, and there were some harmless enough frees given. Wouldn't particularly say the ref was biased, though. It seems to be the way that the lower league games get the less experienced, and probably fussier, referees. Anyway, plenty of those frees were difficult enough, and King didn't miss any. And when you have a striker - Rowland - who can knock them over from well inside his own half, then your score from frees will go up.
Besides, I hear frees kept ye in it against Dublin?!
Laois man besides me was keeping the scores, Laois had three points from play in first half and nine frees
Your right about Dublin match but Dublin discipline was brutal and completely irrelevant to last nights match
Both teams where not dirty last night. Thought you where getting some really soft ones at critical times but to say we where robbed would be stretching it.
Think we will meet again in relegation later and I hope we play better or we deserve to go down
Well, I was pretty sure it was 13 to 8 at half-time, so he must've missed something himself!
I agree, we probably will meet in the relegation later - and that being up your way will make it a lot more difficult for Laois.
Quote from: burdizzo on February 18, 2018, 03:09:50 PM
Well, I was pretty sure it was 13 to 8 at half-time, so he must've missed something himself!
I agree, we probably will meet in the relegation later - and that being up your way will make it a lot more difficult for Laois.
That's my understanding correct me if Imm wrong.
Because we only have two home matches and you guys have three, we have relegation match or is it neutral venue.
Ref aside, it was very impressive to see so many Antrim people make it down last night. Not an easy drive on a dark and cold evening.
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on February 18, 2018, 06:39:51 PM
Ref aside, it was very impressive to see so many Antrim people make it down last night. Not an easy drive on a dark and cold evening.
2 hours 40 minutes, not to bad was home just after midnight, some of the players from down the glens probably got home around 2 o clock in the morning of the bus
Portlaoise not the worst, Salthill or years gone by cork and limerick town are B.ll breakers
I thought that it was great win on Saturday night mainly because Laois didn't play particularly well. They put in far better performances against both Limercik and Galway. It was a very scrappy, stop/start game and the first touch for both teams was poor. Once again the inability to put the ball in the net when presented with the chance. We should have had at least one or two goals considering the amount of chances we created. While great to get the points, a 10 or 11 point win wouldn't have flattered us.
While there were mistakes against Antrim I think the backs are playing well overall. Midfield was solid enough and Ross King didn't miss anything. The forward line as a unit could have been better but the likes of Cha and Willie Dunphy will have much better games in a Laois jersey. Comerford for his first start did very well and it was great to see substitutions making a difference. Downey and Kavanagh made their mark when them came in.
Considering we are still without Cahir, Dwayne, Picky, Collier it bodes well for later in the year. We should have no fear going into the last two games based on performances so far. Both Offaly and Dublin are out of sorts and it's a real opportunity to get the points and avoid a relegation scrap and look forward to a q/f instead.
Our scoring difference could have been much better but as it stands we are ahead of both Offally and Dublin in that department and the dubs still have to play Galway.
We have definately shown progress and there's no reason we can't target a 3rd place finish which would be a great achievement for all involved and would set things up nicely for the championship. The main thing is to keep motoring and stay as injury free as possible.
I wouldn't be too hard on our touch on Saturday, I thought it was excellent at times. The ground conditions were diabolical. Hurling on heavy ground with patches of sand is not ideal and did suit the bigger Antrim lads at times.
Agree that the forwards need to be producing far more from play, especially the half forward line.
Would love to see us win one of the next two games. Offaly will no doubt have targeted next week in Tullamore as a must win so we will have to be at our absolute best to have a chance.
Must say I enjoy watching this team at the moment. I thought the skills levels (including touch) have gradually improved over the last while and it's great to see. They seem like an honest bunch of lads and have some top class players.
In my opinion, Paddy Purcell is as good a midfielder as there is in the country. You'd go a long way to see better freetaking than Ross King's. Lee Cleere is a top notch corner back and Leigh Bergin has coped with pretty much everything thrown at him this year. I know we don't have the strength to compete at the very highest level but we certainly have individual players that can compete at any level. If they could win the next two (which I don't think is unrealistic), that would be the kind of progress they deserve in my opinion.
One thing I noted was that there seems to be a good team spirit in the squad. They all went off together as a group at half time and when subs came on there was a genuine touch with the player replaced. I thought we were a bit loose in the tackle sometimes whereas Antrim always seemed to have a tighter grip on our lads, but overall a heartening performance.
There is definately a good team spirit.
I also should have mentioned Foyle as well who was well involved and scored a cracking point. Was out a bit far from goals at times but would like to see him closer as he's our best bet to bag a goal.
What's the story with John Lennon and Ryan Mullaney? Are they still injured?
Have to say the team is going well and moving forward into the year I think the harder ground will benefit Laois and this team has plenty of potential.
Offaly will be a stern test and in many ways its Offalys biggest game of the league, for their own sanity they will desperately want to beat us more than ever and with Kelly leading us into Tullamore it'll add extra spice. All the pressure is on Offaly , they have to win this match or their match with Dublin and all the hype that surrounded that win will mean nothing and they will effectively be at square one.
I really fancy Laois to put up a good performance and get by Offaly.
The game with Offaly will have a serious championship feel to it. Win that game and both counties will see it as signs of continuing progress. The opposite is the case for the team that loses out. In Offaly's case all the positively generated from their opening day Croke Park win will be eroded away (would be sweet if it is this Laois team that can do it). From a Laois perspective, we have beaten them on a couple of occasions the last couple of years and it has been the benchmark of our progress. To lose/not be competitive would be a blow to the apparent steps forward taken in the opening three games of this year's league.
I fear for Laois if dragged into a relegation play-off. In all likelihood it will be played in Páirc MacUílín in Ballycastle, Antrim and against a physically superior Antrim side on a tight pitch, Laois may come undone. This panel would benefit from a continued stay in division 1b so lets hope they can pick up the required results in their remaining group games.
Offaly have plenty going for them next week. They are at home and they have plenty of seasoned hurlers on board - older lads with a bit of size that we will find it difficult to handle. They are fit and motivated and should be much better than last year.
This was their team against Galway:
Offaly: E Cahill; B Conneely, S Gardiner, T Spain; D O'Toole, P Camon, J Quinn (D Shortt 35); D King (S Dooley 53), P Delaney (T Geraghty 35); C Gath (C Egan 48), S Kinsella, O Kelly (J Bergin 65); D Egan, C Mahon, D Currams.
Not going to be easy. We are still very young. Still I think it is 50:50.
GAA.ie Hurling Team of the Week
1: Donal Tuohy (Clare)
2: Adrian Tuohey (Galway) 3: Leigh Bergin (Laois) 4: Ben Conneely (Offaly)
5: Seadna Morey (Clare) 6: Padraic Maher (Tipperary) 7: Mikey O'Malley (Clare)
8: Lee Chin (Wexford) 9: Damien Casey (Tyrone)
10: Martin Keoghan (Kilkenny) 11: Daniel Glynn (Roscommon) 12: TJ Reid (Kilkenny)
13: Cathal Mannion (Galway) 14: Ross King (Laois) 15: Jason Forde (Tipperary)
Howdy! Long time reader, first time poster (and never ever one for aliases as you can see).
Just a quick line if it's of any interest to ye to say I was also up at Galway v Offaly on Sunday afternoon - and despite the scoreline I was actually impressed with the Offaly backs. Should make for a very tough game this weekend. Joe Cooney was the only Galway forward that really won his battle, until he got injured and had to come off.
Galway don't look out of first gear yet in the league, and sure they really don't have to be. But in saying that Ben Conneely and David O'Toole both had stints on Conor Whelan and were impressive. Also, Joe Bergin and Shane Dooley only came off the bench late in the second half for Offaly, and could be deployed earlier v Laois. On the whole Laois played better v Galway, but there's plenty there for Offaly to add this weekend.
Early throw in might affect the Laois start I hope Kelly has them well prepared to lash into these Offaly feckers....
Offaly will be very much up for this knowing they must win ...because its at home because its Laois and most of all to ram it down Kellys throat...
They wanted to lash it to Kelly last year but we still beat them. They will be up for it for sure and it will be a physical battle which I hope Laois don't get dragged into niggly stuff as I feel it would affect us more than Offaly. Probably see a few cards and wouldn't be surprised if a couple were red. Offaly are big and physical but we haven't been afraid to go at teams this year and we have skillful forwards who if they click on the day can do damage.
This is a bigger game for Offaly than it is for Laois. They really need to win this one for a number of reasons. I think they will go all out to win by picking their best team and try to control the game. We will need a massive intensity (similar to Galway game). We need to try and match them physically and set the tone for the game early on. They have huge forwards and we don't have huge backs so we might be under a bit of pressure there. We will need big games from lads all over the field. It is definitely winnable for Laois and it would give us a massive boost for the rest of the year. If we lose I don't think its the end of the world for this team. We will have another chance against Dublin to get out of a relegation match.
Anyone know how PJ Scully got on during the week? Kelly mentioned he would be playing in the mid week game.
Pj is ready to go I hear!
Ross King's take on this season and moral victories.
http://www.gaa.ie/features/feature/laois-star-ross-king-craves-croke-park-appearance/ (http://www.gaa.ie/features/feature/laois-star-ross-king-craves-croke-park-appearance/)
Let's do this shit
Big game todaay. Give Offaly plenty of it. Better accuracy and big games from Cha and Willie Dunphy. Ross King can't be expected to do it every week. A goal or two would be welcome.
That was a poor enough display. We were very wasteful. Offaly played with much more accuracy and we never made our possession count when we were on top. First touch poor and we turned over the ball 100 times through short passing. I don't mind losing to Offaly but our hurling is much better than it was today and I'd say everyone is very disappointed. We lost by 5 and must have blown 4 or 5 easy frees.
An absolute mile off the pace today. No bite to us whatsoever. You'd have question some of the switches made by Kelly too. We didnt compete in the air at all. Defenders batting the ball with no conviction or bite. It was over with 25 mins left and the scoreline flattered us.
Quote from: SpeculativeEffort on February 25, 2018, 05:32:36 PM
An absolute mile off the pace today. No bite to us whatsoever. You'd have question some of the switches made by Kelly too. We didnt compete in the air at all. Defenders batting the ball with no conviction or bite. It was over with 25 mins left and the scoreline flattered us.
Did any of the subs perform well?
Stapleton looked to settle before half time but was quiet after. Quinlan was handed the unenviable task of marking an in form Joe Bergin and struggled from the off with Bergin rattling the net immediately. Looked a bit more at home in the half line. Mark Kavanagh scored a sideline and maybe one from play. Got bottled up when looking to take on his man but won some good ball. McKane looks lively but its a huge ask for him to compete against lads 3/4 stone heavier than him. Panel is threadbare. Worried for cship.
Quote from: SpeculativeEffort on February 25, 2018, 08:51:11 PM
Stapleton looked to settle before half time but was quiet after. Quinlan was handed the unenviable task of marking an in form Joe Bergin and struggled from the off with Bergin rattling the net immediately. Looked a bit more at home in the half line. Mark Kavanagh scored a sideline and maybe one from play. Got bottled up when looking to take on his man but won some good ball. McKane looks lively but its a huge ask for him to compete against lads 3/4 stone heavier than him. Panel is threadbare. Worried for cship.
McKane has lovely skill, I fear he isn't big enough but I may eat my words, Kavanagh I the Michael Owen of Laois, feel so sorry for him but if he stays injury free he is a great asset, If never seen Quinlan play adult level hurling, u21 with b/k was the last I seen of him
Disappointing performance today.
Offaly were worthy winners; they probably let us off the hook as it really could have been 10+. I think Offaly will ship a couple of heavy beatings in Leinster but I wouldn't be surprised to see them make one big shock.
Our substitutions were frankly baffling. To be fair to Eamon Kelly, we need a couple of selectors in there who are familiar with the Laois Senior Hurling Championship; having one is inadequate. I appreciate that certain players could be flying in training but we got match-ups wrong today and I felt we played into Offaly's hands.
All isn't lost; a win at home next week will see us safe and into a quarter-final. A big ask but manageable.
I know it doesn't necessarily translate, but our results (apart from the Offaly game (1pt diff)) have been better than the Dublin results.
Plus we'll be at home.
Plus we're going for six-in-a-row v the Dubs in the league.
I'd be hopeful of a win. The worry is our size, but then again, what's new?
Quote from: Dave like the tv channel on February 26, 2018, 08:18:35 AM
I know it doesn't necessarily translate, but our results (apart from the Offaly game (1pt diff)) have been better than the Dublin results.
Plus we'll be at home.
Plus we're going for six-in-a-row v the Dubs in the league.
I'd be hopeful of a win. The worry is our size, but then again, what's new?
I'm very optimistic that the lads can dig deep and pull it off against Dublin considering their current situation, home advantage has been very good to teams this year
Jack Nolan and his co-commentators were scratching their heads over some of the substitutions like Dunphy but particularly the taking off of Foyle. Looking at Foyle in previous games he doesn't get enough of ball hit into him and is forced to come looking for it. Jack Nolan also said that with the wind behind them in the firt half there were no balls sent into the full forward line for the likes of Foyle and the other forwards to contend.
Any opinions from lads that were at the game?
Quote from: redsetanta on February 27, 2018, 10:02:38 AM
Jack Nolan and his co-commentators were scratching their heads over some of the substitutions like Dunphy but particularly the taking off of Foyle. Looking at Foyle in previous games he doesn't get enough of ball hit into him and is forced to come looking for it. Jack Nolan also said that with the wind behind them in the firt half there were no balls sent into the full forward line for the likes of Foyle and the other forwards to contend.
Any opinions from lads that were at the game?
I often feel that Jack and I have been watching two different games, whether it is a football match or a hurling match. In the first half we had a huge amount of possession in the forwards but couldn't score. We should have been 7 or 8 points in front after 15 minutes but were level on the scoreboard. Same in the second half, no shortage of possession but mistakes meant that we turned the ball over or drove bad wides.
In all the matches this year the forwards have had more than enough possession. This is a big improvement on last year when we couldn't win a ball. Huge progress has been made on how we handle puck outs from our own keeper and we are much better at battling on the ground and picking up scraps.
The problem for me was what we do with the ball when we have it. Foyle and all our forwards have been guilty this year of fumbling or easily losing hard won possession or making bad decisions. I always thought Neil's most dangerous attribute was his ability to do damage once the ball is in his hand but returns so far this year have been poor from him and I'm sure nobody more than him knows this. In general we are taking too much out of the ball, trying to be much too elaborate and moving it on too slowly. Countless examples against Offaly of trying a 5 yard handpass and losing the ball rather than creating a yard of space and striking the ball. Ross King lost a world of ball as did Ben Conroy.
I think the substitutions were mixed. Hartnett got a knock so had to be replaced. Eric Killeen was having a poor game by his standards. Young Comerford struggled to get on any ball. I did think it was a huge risk to try young Quinlan at full back for his first senior inter county experience against Joe Bergin. I would have left Leigh on him even though he was getting a torrid time. After that we were 8 or 9 points down and it was a matter of trying things such as bringing on Cian Taylor and Paddy McCane.
Would generally agree with Blueandwhite. I was quite disappointed with the showing on Sunday overall.
I probably haven't seen as much of the hurling as other people on here but I do think there is a clear improvement in first touch, winning ball on the ground, feeding decent ball to the forwards, etc. Having said that there is still too much fumbling especially amongst the forwards but to be honest I could hardly feel my own hands sitting in the stand on Sunday so maybe there's some excuse.
The full back line wasn't as good as previous games although Lee Cleere was superb again. Matthew at centre back has been very good in the last two games and midfield were on top. We missed at least 4 or 5 scoreable frees (not including the three 21 yard frees at the end) and, as Blueandwhite says made a few bad shooting/passing decisions in the forwards when better outcomes were possible. Cha surprisingly didn't have a good game at all but I guess it does take a while to get back to full speed after these injuries.
I think the general consensus in the stand was that some of the substitutions were strange - moving Leigh Bergin to the wing back position and removing Neil Foyle altogether didn't seem to make a lot of sense given the way the game was going.
Overall though, I still think there are grounds for optimism. A lot of lads are getting their chances and noone is letting the side down. Competition for places should be strong when everyone regains fitness.
There were only 3/4 points in it when the odd substitutions started. Quinlan cannot really be blamed. A young lad with very little experience anywhere near this level and it was unfair on him. The last two games I felt our wing backs have not been aggressive enough in the air. Countless times the ball was only half contested or contested with little aggression and the ball passed thru putting full back line under more pressure. Kelly seems to want our backs to work the ball out and this backfired in first half with possession being turned over and fouls committed. Direct ball to King, Foyle and Cha would have worked better in my opinion.
Going for Quinlan over Joe Phelan was a hard move to understand. I like Quinlan and he's a good size of a lad so I can kind of see the logic but he was thrown in the deep end completely. It was a gamble that was very high-risk.
Matthew Whelan or Podge Lalor to go back in were much more sane moves in my opinion. I know Leigh Bergin had his hands full but he was doing ok in any case.
Joe went on to hurl for Camross in the Palmer Cup straight after; wouldn't be overly surprising if he didn't return to the panel. A pity as I, for one, have championed his inclusion for a good few years now.
It would be a real shame if lads started dropping off the panel. In fairness, a lot of lads have been given a chance in the games so far and everyone has had games in challenge matches and the like. Hopefully, everyone will stick with it despite the disappointment of Sunday.
I'd say we haven't played them in the league for at least 10 years. Not since our paths diverged, shall we say.
Looks like we won't be playing them this weekend, either!
Quote from: merman on February 27, 2018, 07:05:11 PM
Going for Quinlan over Joe Phelan was a hard move to understand. I like Quinlan and he's a good size of a lad so I can kind of see the logic but he was thrown in the deep end completely. It was a gamble that was very high-risk.
Matthew Whelan or Podge Lalor to go back in were much more sane moves in my opinion. I know Leigh Bergin had his hands full but he was doing ok in any case.
Joe went on to hurl for Camross in the Palmer Cup straight after; wouldn't be overly surprising if he didn't return to the panel. A pity as I, for one, have championed his inclusion for a good few years now.
merman, do you know if Joe Phelan was back with the panel during the week? Hopefully Kelly can re-assure him that he has plenty to give to Laois hurling for the season ahead. We will need a good panel with all the games that will be played.
Quote from: redsetanta on March 05, 2018, 11:26:42 AM
merman, do you know if Joe Phelan was back with the panel during the week? Hopefully Kelly can re-assure him that he has plenty to give to Laois hurling for the season ahead. We will need a good panel with all the games that will be played.
I don't and I actually regret suggesting anything. Joe is a good hurler and a good lad to have around the panel; I'm sure he was frustrated the last day but having stuck with the panel through the hard winter training; I'd be hopeful he'll stay involved for the Tier 2 Championship and a shot at Croke Park. We'll need a panel; he wouldn't be the type to let anyone down!
Any news from the panel? Any injuries?
It would be a huge reward for the players efforts if they could beat Dublin on Sunday. They didn't do themselves justice against Offaly, players or management, but they have the chance to get it right this weekend.
It would be a fantastic boost if we could get the win.
I've been impressed in patches with us this year but I really am fearful for Sunday. We are well capable of beating them but Dublin know exactly what they have to do and they cannot face a relegation play off.
Hopefully there will be a big crowd there Sunday, it would be fantastic to get the win.
I fear the worst Sunday I think we will be bullied in all sectors of the pitch ...I hope I'm wrong!
Quote from: merman on March 05, 2018, 12:42:53 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on March 05, 2018, 11:26:42 AM
merman, do you know if Joe Phelan was back with the panel during the week? Hopefully Kelly can re-assure him that he has plenty to give to Laois hurling for the season ahead. We will need a good panel with all the games that will be played.
I don't and I actually regret suggesting anything. Joe is a good hurler and a good lad to have around the panel; I'm sure he was frustrated the last day but having stuck with the panel through the hard winter training; I'd be hopeful he'll stay involved for the Tier 2 Championship and a shot at Croke Park. We'll need a panel; he wouldn't be the type to let anyone down!
Well, he's got the nod for the Dublin game, anyway.
Form lines suggest we can beat Dublin, but do we really believe we can, deep down?
Hopefully he has a good game. We have to win one of these games at some point, why not Sunday. Of course we'll think the worst based on whats gone before but we've shown what we're capable of. Best of luck to all involved Sunday. Ye deserve a break.
God that was terrible. Are they doing any hurling at all in training? First touch and accuracy miles off. Look like they are going backwards. Antrim should have more than enough to send us to Division 2 if there isn't huge improvement. So many lads played poorly.
Only Leigh Bergin and James Ryan looked the part.
Yes, on Bergin and Ryan, but I thought Matt Whelan was another of a very few who was up for the physical exchanges. Again, though, too many small lads who were horsed off the ball easily enough. The last Dublin goal was a prime example; Joe Phelan - who actually wasn't too bad - pushed off a ball he should have had, but seemed likely to lose. Don't know what daydream Rowland was having, but he should have been out a lot smarter to save his corner back's blushes.
Anyway, the game was well gone by then. In fact, it was gone after the first quarter, Laois completely at sixes and sevens against the taller and more robust Dubs. A real downer to have to go up to Antrim off the back of that.
They'll need to be getting a lot more out of the likes of Dwyer and Purcell to be winning up there.
Momentum certainly with Antrim after todays games. A win up in Ballycastle is a big ask. What's happened with Ross King since the Antrim game? He couldn't miss in the earlier rounds. After such a promising start today's performance was so.disappointing.
I just don't know but our skill level and sharpness seems way off. Struggling to compete in the air. When we do win possession we seem to get blocked down too easily because we are standing still or we handpass it to the opposition. It seemed yesterday that Dublin did everything at a different speed to us. The free-taking was brutal too. Roddy missed a heap and I think Scully missed 3 when switched.
Very disappointed with this yesterday. I know we missed a lot of frees, which would have brought us a lot closer but in truth we were well off Dublin's level (and they weren't exceptional by any means). A lot of lads just didn't look like they had very high motivation levels and that's disappointing.
On the positive side, Leigh Bergin was outstanding again on Ryan O Dwyer and Matthew Whelan had an excellent game on Conal Keaney. Otherwise, noone really stood out for me. Lee Cleere was presumably injured. Neither Paddy Purcell nor Cha looked like they were at the races at all yesterday for some reason. For me, this was really worse than the Offaly game.
I really think Roddy is much more effective out the field and midfield seems to suit him. Maybe Ryan could be tried at wing back. I know he's done very well in midfield but the wing backs haven't been doing well for a while now.
Good to see PJ Scully back too.
To me it looked like we had only 4 players that showed any passion. Bergin, Whelan, Ryan and Phelan.
After that no one impressed at all. Was it lack of passion or tiredness? Cant really figure it out.
We hear about this being a young team. Look at Limerick on Sunday and they are young.
Quote from: LOVEGAA on March 13, 2018, 11:38:48 AM
To me it looked like we had only 4 players that showed any passion. Bergin, Whelan, Ryan and Phelan.
After that no one impressed at all. Was it lack of passion or tiredness? Cant really figure it out.
We hear about this being a young team. Look at Limerick on Sunday and they are young.
I don't know about passion. It just seemed like they had no self belief and were not sharp. There were a lot of guys that tried really hard but just couldn't make an impact. They were also pretty devastated afterwards to be fair. For example, Cha, Willie Dunphy, Ross King, Eric Killeen, Ben Conroy all bust a gut but it just wasn't happening for them. Dublin just played at a different pace with a precision that we couldn't handle.
Brian Cody always says that training should be at the same speed and intensity as a match. I seriously doubt this is the case with Laois based on the Offaly and Dublin matches.
There was certainly a height difference across the board and the Dubs won plenty of primary possession both backs and forwards. They also tended not to over carry and would move the ball quicker. There was plenty of LAois ball cleared up the field straight to a Dublin man.
Nothing like bad wides and missed frees to drain a team either. It was said earlier in the league that the other forwards weren't contributiing enough and King couldn't keep carrying the scores. He had two bad days and no one else stood up to the plate. If you're over reliant on one man for scores then you're in trouble.
I’m hoping to listen to the match this upcoming Sunday. It’s been a LONG time since I’ve been able to follow any Laois hurling. Is the match up in Antrim or down in Laois? Thanks.
Answered my own question—Antrim. :P
I just emailed Midlands Radio to see if they'll be covering the match. Does anyone known of any Antrim radio stations that might cover the match? Thanks.
Go to the Antrim board on 'Local GAA Discussion', and I'm sure someone there will able to tell you!
Welcome back, by the way!
Quote from: burdizzo on March 15, 2018, 07:36:56 AM
Go to the Antrim board on 'Local GAA Discussion', and I'm sure someone there will able to tell you!
Welcome back, by the way!
Great idea.
And it's good to be back. Thanks, Burdizzo!
Well done to Laois hurlers. But, how do you explain Offaly beating Laois comfortably, Antrim beating Offaly and Laois then beating Antrim?
Offaly used a second string side against Antrim since the result didn't matter to them.
Yes, very well done to Laois. They're getting good at getting over relegation play-offs! Actually, I'd say getting over Antrim in Dunloy is a good day's work, even if it was a lot tighter than last month's game between them.
Great result. I'm thrilled there's no relegation.
Who made the one goal?
Paddy Purcell from Rathdowney-Errill got the goal - Laois' second of the whole league...
Delighted for these lads. Although there were poor performances against Dublin and Offaly, I think that overall they showed they are becoming increasingly competitive in this league. Next step hopefully to avoid the relegation playoff.
Quote from: Giovanni on March 19, 2018, 04:35:22 PM
Next step hopefully to avoid the relegation playoff.
That was the relegation play off!!!
Yes. The next step is to avoid it next year. Are we allowed to look that far ahead?
Yes, it's a fair point - we've been involved in relegation fights every year since 2014, and have sailed pretty close to the wind a few times. Getting out of 2A wouldn't be a given, either - Kerry, Carlow, Antrim, Westmeath have all given us plenty of it in recent years. It'd be nice to go up a notch, win a couple of games in the league...
When you consider the number of good players that we've been missing during a lot of the league campaign, you'd have to be optimistic for next year. I don't think Offaly are light years ahead of us in terms of quality and they gave an excellent account of themselves today in league quarter final. The tier 2 competiton should be a good next test, hopefully with a few more coming back from injury.
Great respect to the hurlers for getting over what was a very tricky tie with Antrim up on their own patch. I certainly feared the worst after the results for both teams last week. It shows you that goals win games and Purcells goal was the difference in the end. Although I have been critical of Paddy in the past with regard to his decision making in front of goals at times, there are very few goals coming from anyone else in the team. To have any progress at all we really need to be scoring more goals.
The lads can go forward to the round robin now in a decent frame of mind and hopefully get their day in Croke Park later in the summer.
Great boost to Laois hurling ...would be a bit of a feel good factor now in the county if the footballers could secure promotion to div 3 .
The hurlers might even give us silverware this year and get a couple of games in croker!!
Laois Laois Laois
Is there a list of fixtures and dates for the championship matches? I cant seem to find them anywhere.
Yeah, look at the ''Joe McDonagh Cup'' thread on this board. It's pretty near the top...
Perfect, thanks. No wonder i couldn't find it, first iv ever heard of the Joe McDonagh cup!! Is the final of this still scheduled for Croke Park? A great incentive for teams like Laois to be heading to Croke Park to win a trophy, tier 2 or not! I would love to travel to Croke park to see Laois hurlers playing and a real chance at winning something. Plus with the winners getting entry to prelim Q final i think its an ideal set up for developing counties.
Quote from: Giovanni on March 19, 2018, 07:00:52 PM
Yes. The next step is to avoid it next year. Are we allowed to look that far ahead?
Re-read your post, I see now what you're saying, apologies! ;)