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GAA Discussion => Local GAA Discussion => Laois => Topic started by: mcwregor on January 28, 2021, 09:52:00 PM

Title: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: mcwregor on January 28, 2021, 09:52:00 PM
Decided to spark a bit of talk and debate about the make up of the laois senior hurling panel in 2021.
I have listed out 59 potential players for laois in 2021. I have divided them in different groups goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, forwards, lads worth having a look at, lads that we could do with but have not committed in recent years and young lads. I have no idea of the make up of Cheddars training panel so im guessing really. Would like to get your opinions on who should be there and maybe what our best starting 15 is. I have guessed the ages of all players, I shouldn't be too far out but forgive me if I am! The average age of the first 32 named below is 25.8yrs old. Also forgive me if I have left anyone obvious or maybe not so obvious out.
Goalkeepers (2)
Enda Rowland (26)
An excellent goalkeeper with a great attitude and a love for the jersey
Paul Simms (25)
A good back up to Rowland but barring injury to Enda hard to see him get in
                               
Defenders (12)
Sean Downey (26)
Not sure is full back his best position and whether he can nullify the best in the game remains to be seen. Got caught for Eamonn Dillons goal against Dublin but other than that did quite well in 2020.
Matthew Whelan (32)
A warrior for laois for almost 15 years at this stage and hardly missed a game in all that time. I don't ever remember Matthew getting a roasting for laois and he has seen some dark days. Not sure if he is soldiering on this year or not as he didn't seem to come into the reckoning in 2020. Owes laois nothing.     
Lee Cleere (22)
Struggled a bit early on against Dublin but Cleere is one Cheddar will be counting on in the coming years. An excellent competitor                                                                 
Donnacha Harnett (25) 
Have been very impressed with Hartnett in the past couple of years, seems comfortable at county level and has done well on some top players                                                   
Jack Kelly (25)
Kelly was one of our top performers in 2019. Strange he didn't start against Dublin last year and taken off early against Clare when playing well.
Ryan Mullaney (25)
Mullaney is another that has performed very well in the past couple of years. I think he is most at home at centre back but could also be used at full back.
Podge Delaney (22)
One of laois best players in 2020 and we will big performances again in 2021
Colm Stapleton (25)
In and out of the team a bit. Got his chance against Clare and did quite well but made a couple of errors also.
Ronan Broderick (25)
Unfortunate injury against Dublin, Hopefully he makes a good/speedy recovery
Eric Killeen (23)
Will be looking for more game time and fight for a place
Ciaran McEvoy (26)
Will be hoping to take his chance
Diarmuid Conway (21)
Looking forward to seeing Conway getting a chance.

Midfielders (4)
John Lennon (25)
An important cog in the wheel. Sorely missed in 2020
Paddy Purcell (28)
Again not starting Paddy against Clare when we were already missing players seemed a strange move to me. However he didn't sulk and got stuck in and played well when introduced. Laois need to be getting the best out of Paddy Purcell.
Fiachra C Fennell (23)
A great engine and pace which suits this laois team. Hopefully he can improve his end product. Has a part to play
Conor Phelan (25)
Has been used as a substitute, will be looking for a chance from the start

Forwards (14)
Picky Maher (28)
One of the best in the business on his day. A couple of superb points against Dublin but we need a bit more overall given his talent
Cha Dwyer (27)
Not bringing Cha back into the panel in Autumn was another funny call by EB. Laois cant afford to be without the likes of cha. He is a leader in this team and we will need him at his best.
Mark Kavanagh (23)
Kavanagh is becoming an important player in this team, his scoring ability makes up for his lack of physique. Hopefully injuries are behind him
Ross King (27)
Roddy carried the can up front for a lot of last year and did as well as he could. A top player for laois and will need more support
Willie Dunphy (29)
After an epic 2019, Dunphy wasn't as influential in 2020 but still remains a very important player for laois
Eanna Lyons (27)
Will be very keen to get back hurling with laois after missing out last year. Has a good attitude and if he could become more of an aerial threat it would serve us well
Aaron Dunphy (23)
A super talent with great speed. After and excellent 2019 campaign, he didn't excel as much in 2020. Made some handling errors that you wouldn't expect.
James Ryan (27)
Ryan played well at times in 2020 and drifted out of games at times also. Will be hoping to add consistency to his game.
James Keyes (21)
Has developed physically in the past year. Took a brilliant goal against Clare. Hopefully he can improve again this year
Stephen Bergin (26)
Dogged by injury in 2020. Can play his part starting or from the bench again this year
Pj Scully (27)
Pj is back in with laois and will be hoping to push for a starting place
Ben Conroy (27)
Injured in 2019 and was in England for a lot of 2020. A top club player in laois be interesting to see if he could make the step up for laois
Eoin Gaughan (22)
Played a bit in 2020 in the absence of others. Will be hoping to make an impact in 2020
Mark Hennessy (20)
Came on for the last couple of minutes against Clare so he must have been impressing in training. Played well for laois under 20's against Carlow. Will develop in the next couple of years
Liam O Connell (24)
This is an interesting one. Ive heard O Connell is part of the panel. Not sure if he has ever even played senior with his club. Was an excellent minor until he was plagued by injury.

In and out/Worth a look (13)
Conor Cosgrove (20)
Frank Flanagan
Cian Taylor (26)
Aaron Bergin (23)
Daniel Comerford (22)
Ciaran Comerford (22)
Liam Senior (21)
Podge Lawlor (28)
Paddy Whelan (28)
Stephen Phelan (23)
Robbie Phelan (23)
Aidan Corby (25)
Stephen Finan (26)

Not available - (7) All listed below have not committed for the past couple of years for whatever reason. It's a real shame as these guys would really drive on the current panel and all could possibly start in the championship. I believe these lads will have some regrets if they don't come back and give it a go as they are all in their prime now and they are missing out on playing at the highest level with their county. Ive no doubt they were in portlaoise or in croke park supporting laois in the summer of 2019. They were incredible days to be a laois person, surley it stroke a chord with them and would have said "god id love to be out there", I have to say I was surprised when none of them were involved in 2020 after the year we had in'19. Cheddar was interviewed recently and when questioned about non committals he played it down so maybe he has got a few of these guys back in. We definitely have had a huge amount of guys that have not committed in recent years and I think I remember Eddie Brennan saying he had 22 guys decline. Id be keen to know the reason behind it and what could be done to encourage more to play with their county. Many of lads would kill for the honour!

Gearoid Burke (27) Was a steady wing back for cheddar during his last term in charge. Would be a great option to have if available this year.
Dwayne Palmer (25) Hasn't been around the past couple of years. Would provide great competition for a corner back spot.
Joe Campion (25) Hasn't committed to the county panel for the past couple of years. Would be a great addition to the laois set up as he has the physique and ability to excel.                               
Leigh Bergin (25) Didn't play any hurling club or county in the past couple of years for whatever reason. It's a pity as he was progressing into a fine hurler prior to that.
Ciaran Collier (25) Hurler of the year in 2018 and unfortunately hasn't committed in recent years. Hasn't had the best club campaigns is '18 but if committed he could find form and be a good addition to laois.
Mark Dowling (23) Camross best player in 2020 and has progressed very well. Didn't seem to get much chance in 2019 under brennan but would definitely feature if he commits in 2021.
Eoin Fleming (26) Undoubtedly the second best goalie in laois for the past few years, probably has become frustrated with lack of opportunity.                                 

Potential/Maybe not ready yet
Dunne is one that is probably ready to make the step up as under study to Rowland and learn his trade with a view to challenging Rowland for the position down the line. Id like to see burke in too as he has a lot of the attributes required for this level and training with the senior team will bring him on leaps and bounds. Dooley is an excellent prospect and considering who his father is hopefully he will choose the small ball over other sports. Maher had an excellent club campaign for rosenallis. The others are young but have potential to push on.
Cathal Dunne (20)
Ciaran Burke (20)
David Dooley (17)
John Maher (20)
Fionain Mahony (18)
Danny Brennan (19)
Tomas Keyes (18)
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: steven seagal on January 28, 2021, 11:39:13 PM
Liam O'Connell has definitely played senior with his club anyway, he was on the Rathdowney-Errill team that drew with Borris-Kilcotton in that epic game a few years ago. It'd be great if he was back involved, pucks of ability, would need a lot of time to get himself back right but Cheddar would be a good manager for him. Hope he's fit and well
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on January 29, 2021, 12:35:06 PM
Quote from: mcwregor on January 28, 2021, 09:52:00 PM
Decided to spark a bit of talk and debate about the make up of the laois senior hurling panel in 2021.
I have listed out 59 potential players for laois in 2021. I have divided them in different groups goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, forwards, lads worth having a look at, lads that we could do with but have not committed in recent years and young lads. I have no idea of the make up of Cheddars training panel so im guessing really. Would like to get your opinions on who should be there and maybe what our best starting 15 is. I have guessed the ages of all players, I shouldn't be too far out but forgive me if I am! The average age of the first 32 named below is 25.8yrs old. Also forgive me if I have left anyone obvious or maybe not so obvious out.
Goalkeepers (2)
Enda Rowland (26)
An excellent goalkeeper with a great attitude and a love for the jersey
Paul Simms (25)
A good back up to Rowland but barring injury to Enda hard to see him get in
                               
Defenders (12)
Sean Downey (26)
Not sure is full back his best position and whether he can nullify the best in the game remains to be seen. Got caught for Eamonn Dillons goal against Dublin but other than that did quite well in 2020.
Matthew Whelan (32)
A warrior for laois for almost 15 years at this stage and hardly missed a game in all that time. I don't ever remember Matthew getting a roasting for laois and he has seen some dark days. Not sure if he is soldiering on this year or not as he didn't seem to come into the reckoning in 2020. Owes laois nothing.     
Lee Cleere (22)
Struggled a bit early on against Dublin but Cleere is one Cheddar will be counting on in the coming years. An excellent competitor                                                                 
Donnacha Harnett (25) 
Have been very impressed with Hartnett in the past couple of years, seems comfortable at county level and has done well on some top players                                                   
Jack Kelly (25)
Kelly was one of our top performers in 2019. Strange he didn't start against Dublin last year and taken off early against Clare when playing well.
Ryan Mullaney (25)
Mullaney is another that has performed very well in the past couple of years. I think he is most at home at centre back but could also be used at full back.
Podge Delaney (22)
One of laois best players in 2020 and we will big performances again in 2021
Colm Stapleton (25)
In and out of the team a bit. Got his chance against Clare and did quite well but made a couple of errors also.
Ronan Broderick (25)
Unfortunate injury against Dublin, Hopefully he makes a good/speedy recovery
Eric Killeen (23)
Will be looking for more game time and fight for a place
Ciaran McEvoy (26)
Will be hoping to take his chance
Diarmuid Conway (21)
Looking forward to seeing Conway getting a chance.

Midfielders (4)
John Lennon (25)
An important cog in the wheel. Sorely missed in 2020
Paddy Purcell (28)
Again not starting Paddy against Clare when we were already missing players seemed a strange move to me. However he didn't sulk and got stuck in and played well when introduced. Laois need to be getting the best out of Paddy Purcell.
Fiachra C Fennell (23)
A great engine and pace which suits this laois team. Hopefully he can improve his end product. Has a part to play
Conor Phelan (25)
Has been used as a substitute, will be looking for a chance from the start

Forwards (14)
Picky Maher (28)
One of the best in the business on his day. A couple of superb points against Dublin but we need a bit more overall given his talent
Cha Dwyer (27)
Not bringing Cha back into the panel in Autumn was another funny call by EB. Laois cant afford to be without the likes of cha. He is a leader in this team and we will need him at his best.
Mark Kavanagh (23)
Kavanagh is becoming an important player in this team, his scoring ability makes up for his lack of physique. Hopefully injuries are behind him
Ross King (27)
Roddy carried the can up front for a lot of last year and did as well as he could. A top player for laois and will need more support
Willie Dunphy (29)
After an epic 2019, Dunphy wasn't as influential in 2020 but still remains a very important player for laois
Eanna Lyons (27)
Will be very keen to get back hurling with laois after missing out last year. Has a good attitude and if he could become more of an aerial threat it would serve us well
Aaron Dunphy (23)
A super talent with great speed. After and excellent 2019 campaign, he didn't excel as much in 2020. Made some handling errors that you wouldn't expect.
James Ryan (27)
Ryan played well at times in 2020 and drifted out of games at times also. Will be hoping to add consistency to his game.
James Keyes (21)
Has developed physically in the past year. Took a brilliant goal against Clare. Hopefully he can improve again this year
Stephen Bergin (26)
Dogged by injury in 2020. Can play his part starting or from the bench again this year
Pj Scully (27)
Pj is back in with laois and will be hoping to push for a starting place
Ben Conroy (27)
Injured in 2019 and was in England for a lot of 2020. A top club player in laois be interesting to see if he could make the step up for laois
Eoin Gaughan (22)
Played a bit in 2020 in the absence of others. Will be hoping to make an impact in 2020
Mark Hennessy (20)
Came on for the last couple of minutes against Clare so he must have been impressing in training. Played well for laois under 20's against Carlow. Will develop in the next couple of years
Liam O Connell (24)
This is an interesting one. Ive heard O Connell is part of the panel. Not sure if he has ever even played senior with his club. Was an excellent minor until he was plagued by injury.

In and out/Worth a look (13)
Conor Cosgrove (20)
Frank Flanagan
Cian Taylor (26)
Aaron Bergin (23)
Daniel Comerford (22)
Ciaran Comerford (22)
Liam Senior (21)
Podge Lawlor (28)
Paddy Whelan (28)
Stephen Phelan (23)
Robbie Phelan (23)
Aidan Corby (25)
Stephen Finan (26)

Not available - (7) All listed below have not committed for the past couple of years for whatever reason. It's a real shame as these guys would really drive on the current panel and all could possibly start in the championship. I believe these lads will have some regrets if they don't come back and give it a go as they are all in their prime now and they are missing out on playing at the highest level with their county. Ive no doubt they were in portlaoise or in croke park supporting laois in the summer of 2019. They were incredible days to be a laois person, surley it stroke a chord with them and would have said "god id love to be out there", I have to say I was surprised when none of them were involved in 2020 after the year we had in'19. Cheddar was interviewed recently and when questioned about non committals he played it down so maybe he has got a few of these guys back in. We definitely have had a huge amount of guys that have not committed in recent years and I think I remember Eddie Brennan saying he had 22 guys decline. Id be keen to know the reason behind it and what could be done to encourage more to play with their county. Many of lads would kill for the honour!

Gearoid Burke (27) Was a steady wing back for cheddar during his last term in charge. Would be a great option to have if available this year.
Dwayne Palmer (25) Hasn't been around the past couple of years. Would provide great competition for a corner back spot.
Joe Campion (25) Hasn't committed to the county panel for the past couple of years. Would be a great addition to the laois set up as he has the physique and ability to excel.                               
Leigh Bergin (25) Didn't play any hurling club or county in the past couple of years for whatever reason. It's a pity as he was progressing into a fine hurler prior to that.
Ciaran Collier (25) Hurler of the year in 2018 and unfortunately hasn't committed in recent years. Hasn't had the best club campaigns is '18 but if committed he could find form and be a good addition to laois.
Mark Dowling (23) Camross best player in 2020 and has progressed very well. Didn't seem to get much chance in 2019 under brennan but would definitely feature if he commits in 2021.
Eoin Fleming (26) Undoubtedly the second best goalie in laois for the past few years, probably has become frustrated with lack of opportunity.                                 

Potential/Maybe not ready yet
Dunne is one that is probably ready to make the step up as under study to Rowland and learn his trade with a view to challenging Rowland for the position down the line. Id like to see burke in too as he has a lot of the attributes required for this level and training with the senior team will bring him on leaps and bounds. Dooley is an excellent prospect and considering who his father is hopefully he will choose the small ball over other sports. Maher had an excellent club campaign for rosenallis. The others are young but have potential to push on.
Cathal Dunne (20)
Ciaran Burke (20)
David Dooley (17)
John Maher (20)
Fionain Mahony (18)
Danny Brennan (19)
Tomas Keyes (18)


Great research there.

What really impresses me is the exciting, high scoring forward line we could potentially have on the pitch.
Aaron Dunphy
Mark Kavanagh
PJ Scully
Willie Dunphy
Cha
Roddy

with Keyes, Picky, Ben, Lyons etc to come on with 20/25 to go. Oh what I'd give to have Joe Campion available.

I wonder could we get the following team on the pitch? We'd give anyone a run.

Enda Rowland
Donnchadh Hartnett
Matthew Whelan
Lee Cleere
Jack Kelly
Ryan Mullaney
Podge Delaney
Joe Campion
Paddy Purcell
Aaron Dunphy
Mark Kavanagh
PJ Scully
Willie Dunphy
Cha Dwyer
Ross King


Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Ogie on January 29, 2021, 01:13:56 PM
Be great to have Joe Campion back involved, could make a huge difference to that team,
Mark Dowling definitely deserves a chance, was Camross best forward, Jordan Walsh & Stephen Dunphy also played brilliantly for their clubs last year also, could easily fit into the modern game.

Matthew has committed for 2021, some commitment to Laois
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on January 30, 2021, 11:22:39 PM
Is there any sign of Joe Campion getting involved? How many years is it since he was w/ Laois? I had it in my head that he said he was never going back in w/ the county that time, and he's been true to his word thus far, anyway.

Not sure Burke has the temperament, and Collier has gone right off the boil since he stepped away from Laois. Leigh Bergin is a shame all right, but maybe he's just had enough of it all/ some sort of an epiphany that doesn't include hurling? Who knows.

Young Maher would be a good prospect, but would he have the size for senior intercounty?

Anyway, good list there, mcwregor!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on February 01, 2021, 10:49:19 PM
The Laois Gaa Senior Hurling Management Team for 2021 has been confirmed.  Laois Gaa sends its best wishes to the team and management for the 2021 season.

Manager: Cheddar
Hurling coach: Donach O'Donnell
Hurling analyst: Francis Forde
S&C: Leo Tiernan and David Matthews
Nutrition: Arthur Dunne
Physio: John Sugrue and Conor Bolton
Dr: JP Campion

Hopefully a successful appointment and best wishes to all involved whenever return to sport happens!
;D
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Keyser Söze on February 02, 2021, 09:34:26 AM
Looks impressive. Only to be expected with Cheddar I suppose, but we shouldn't take these things for granted!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Spiritof1915 on February 02, 2021, 10:58:11 AM
Young, vibrant and enthusiastic management team. hopefully all players will commit. Exactly what was needed after brennan left
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: marty34 on February 02, 2021, 11:28:21 AM
Small enough of a backroom, as per modern times.

Less is more and all that!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Ogie on April 08, 2021, 01:56:43 PM
Anyone hazard a guess or work out when Laois will be hurling league  / Championship and when Club championships will take off this year ??
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on April 08, 2021, 03:43:03 PM
Quote from: Ogie on April 08, 2021, 01:56:43 PM
Anyone hazard a guess or work out when Laois will be hurling league  / Championship and when Club championships will take off this year ??

League to start 8/9th May

County championship can start once the Inter county team is knocked out
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: The PRO on April 09, 2021, 01:53:07 PM
Big blow losing Mark Kavanagh for the full year if it's true.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on April 09, 2021, 10:21:03 PM
How did he get seriously hurt ??? Collective sessions going on ??
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Behindthefence on April 10, 2021, 05:11:38 PM
From my limited understanding cartilage damage is normally a wear and tear injury.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on April 20, 2021, 09:42:24 AM
Wexford first, then Kilkenny. Two good games to look forward to.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois Rising on April 22, 2021, 03:27:56 PM
Don't forget we could get Galway potentially in the final as well Zooming Around.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Junior Ex Laoistalk on April 22, 2021, 11:48:38 PM
Cheddar Plunkett and the Laois hurlers have a busy schedule in Division IB of the National hurling league with trips to Wexford, Kilkenny and Antrim while also playing host to Clare and Dublin in MW Hire O'Moore Park.

They will start the league away to their championship opponents, Wexford on Sunday May 9 before hosting Dublin a week later in Portlaoise.

They will have two home games in a row ads Clare are welcomed to the Midlands on May 23 before two away trips to Kilkenny and Antrim before the curtain comes down on the league campaign.

The full list of league fixtures for the Laois footballers is as follows;

National Hurling League Division 1B
Round 1 – Wexford v Laois Sunday May 9 (Wexford Park) 1.45pm
Round 2 – Laois v Dublin Saturday May 15 (O'Moore Park) 5pm
Round 3 – Laois v Clare Sunday May 23 (O'Moore Park) 3pm
Round 4 – Kilkenny v Laois Sunday June 6 (Nowlan Park) 1.45pm
Round 5 – Antrim v Laois Saturday June 12 (Belfast) 3pm.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on April 23, 2021, 11:05:35 AM
Quote from: Laois Rising on April 22, 2021, 03:27:56 PM
Don't forget we could get Galway potentially in the final as well Zooming Around.

Competitive against Wexford and then get Clare in the qualifiers is the best we can hope for 
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on April 23, 2021, 11:54:23 AM
Quote from: Laois Rising on April 22, 2021, 03:27:56 PM
Don't forget we could get Galway potentially in the final as well Zooming Around.

Correct and another rattle at Tipp after that.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on April 23, 2021, 12:34:53 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on April 23, 2021, 11:54:23 AM
Quote from: Laois Rising on April 22, 2021, 03:27:56 PM
Don't forget we could get Galway potentially in the final as well Zooming Around.

Correct and another rattle at Tipp after that.

Will Limerick give us a game in the All Ireland Final?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on April 23, 2021, 01:30:55 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on April 23, 2021, 12:34:53 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on April 23, 2021, 11:54:23 AM
Quote from: Laois Rising on April 22, 2021, 03:27:56 PM
Don't forget we could get Galway potentially in the final as well Zooming Around.

Correct and another rattle at Tipp after that.

Will Limerick give us a game in the All Ireland Final?


There's no reason not to be optimistic. Clare hammered Wexford last year and we'd have beaten Clare if we had another minute or if the ref had applied the advantage rule properly.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on April 23, 2021, 02:16:50 PM
Where abouts in Belfast will the Antrim game be?

All going well there might be a chance of actually going to that game.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on April 23, 2021, 02:40:44 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on April 23, 2021, 01:30:55 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on April 23, 2021, 12:34:53 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on April 23, 2021, 11:54:23 AM
Quote from: Laois Rising on April 22, 2021, 03:27:56 PM
Don't forget we could get Galway potentially in the final as well Zooming Around.

Correct and another rattle at Tipp after that.

Will Limerick give us a game in the All Ireland Final?


There's no reason not to be optimistic. Clare hammered Wexford last year and we'd have beaten Clare if we had another minute or if the ref had applied the advantage rule properly.

Clare were well in control when it was 15 v 15

And we didn't need the ref to beat them when it 15 v 14,we had the opportunity to put them away long before the final whistle and didn't take it.

Of all the Munster teams we could be potentially facing in a Qualifier,I'd looking for Clare again though
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on April 25, 2021, 01:11:10 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on April 23, 2021, 02:16:50 PM
Where abouts in Belfast will the Antrim game be?

All going well there might be a chance of actually going to that game.

Corrigan Park, I believe.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on May 05, 2021, 09:56:57 AM
Any of you know how training is going and the likely team for the weekend?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois Rising on May 05, 2021, 10:59:45 AM
Very little time really between the return to training and opening round of league games for Cheddar to put his stamp on things. I just hope Laois can retain their current league and championship status for next year as that will afford him requisite time and a platform to develop things and hopefully continue the upward trajectory Laois hurling has been on in recent years.   
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on May 05, 2021, 06:00:38 PM
I had a listen to the Laois Today interview with Cheddar and it's great to hear that plenty of club hurlers are looking to get involved with the county. He hasn't omitted anyone from last years panel and is welcoming in new hurlers. Hopefully the good vibes around the hurlers continues with a few good performances in the league. As Cheddar pointed out, last campaign we only beat Carlow so work needs to be done.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on May 08, 2021, 09:52:43 AM
Has the team been named? I can every other team but not the Laois one.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on May 08, 2021, 06:56:57 PM
Laois Today has it. Starts for Collier and Dooley and Comerford.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on May 09, 2021, 03:36:26 PM
Harsh scoreline in the end, Laois worked hard throughout but just lacked that bit of quality in the final third. Lots to work on and the league not made any easier with Antrims win over Clare.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on May 09, 2021, 04:51:43 PM
Quote from: Joeythelips on May 09, 2021, 03:36:26 PM
Harsh scoreline in the end, Laois worked hard throughout but just lacked that bit of quality in the final third. Lots to work on and the league not made any easier with Antrims win over Clare.
Game was awful to watch but to be expected in first game back. Forwards bar King were very poor. Could neither score or tackle today. Seemed to be constantly running into Wexford players and being turned over. Obviously weather conditions didn't help wides and  badly missing key players up front. They're going to have to get up the standard soon as season will be over before you know it.
Hopefully it'll be much improved after today.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on May 09, 2021, 05:00:32 PM
We won't get near any of the other opposition either

The best we can hope for is to beat Westmeath in the relegation playoff

That was the reality before today's game and it's the reality now
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Keyser Söze on May 09, 2021, 05:50:06 PM
As Helix mentioned, the tendency to carry the ball into trouble was a big problem. Actually it wasn't even carried into trouble. It was soloed into trouble.
Major problem with shooting from ridiculous places.
We had plenty of possession in the attacking half. What we did with the ball was really really inefficient!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: SpeculativeEffort on May 09, 2021, 06:43:28 PM
We soloed into trouble as the players ahead of the player in possession were completely outnumbered by defenders. The optimism of our forwards about actually winning the ball seemed to wane very quickly when they were so outnumbered. They were chasing shadows for most of game and when they did get the ball they shot straight away as there was no support.

It looked like we played a formation of:
1
4
4
3
2
1
Then carry and shoot any time we see the goals.

Containment game plan. We need Kav, Lyons etc back quick
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on May 09, 2021, 07:01:27 PM
Kavanagh's out for the year.

21 wides is an awful lot. I know there was a big wind, and all, but a free taker of Scully's calibre should have made a better fist of some of those. A lot of them were MILES wide!

I thought the backs did OK, but King was the only one up front. Very hard to see us beating Antrim.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: merman on May 09, 2021, 07:14:25 PM
Sobering afternoon.
There are a few established players who just haven't reached the heights of 2019 and we haven't added a whole pile to the mix since. We are a long way off Liam McCarthy standard truth be told.

It's going to be a tough league but I suppose we knew that anyway.
The 12 team Div 1 is great for exposing us to high-quality opposition but it's a very steep curve and I can't help but feel Divisions of 8 would suit us better. A discussion for another day perhaps.

A competitive showing next week would be a positive.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on May 09, 2021, 11:08:40 PM
We can dress it up all we want we were shocking today the gulf in class was serious 19 points says it all ,, I totally admire us having cheddar disagree with Laois having only one Laois insider over the football team bad champo for both sides predicted
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on May 10, 2021, 09:37:27 AM
It's a pity we didn't get to see young Dooley play.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on May 10, 2021, 10:34:26 AM
https://www.laoistoday.ie/2021/05/10/i-understood-the-rule-that-when-you-finished-minor-and-moved-into-next-year-you-could-play-senior/?fbclid=IwAR32CLRLQyFPFyOpHYvf8cS4A4Epu-YZ-kTBN5LfgfOrUu1z66xVhzoHNbU (https://www.laoistoday.ie/2021/05/10/i-understood-the-rule-that-when-you-finished-minor-and-moved-into-next-year-you-could-play-senior/?fbclid=IwAR32CLRLQyFPFyOpHYvf8cS4A4Epu-YZ-kTBN5LfgfOrUu1z66xVhzoHNbU)
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on May 10, 2021, 10:40:29 AM
Funny what people take out of a game.

For me, Laois were at a much earlier level of readiness than other counties this weekend. Tried hard but the basic hurling skills were a good way off where they were last year. Couldn't rise a ball, couldn't strike cleanly and quickly, couldn't take a sideline cut, couldn't pass the ball and hold onto it all day and the shooting and decision making was awful. Just were not as sharp as we were even early last year and nowhere near as sharp as any other county. Easy to say early days but all other counties maybe except WH were way ahead. Wasn't all bad though. At times the backs were excellent but once the ball was moving forward it was a disaster. Roddy was sharp but got very little ball as moon shots were chosen despite almost all wides getting blown across the same side of the goal.

Nice to see Cha back although he had a stinker. Same with Ciarán Collier who tried hard. Need two scoring corner forwards urgently but backs and Midfield look more settled.

I hope the emphasis in training changes to hurling sharpness fairly soon or we are in for worse hidings. Wexford only pulled away in the last 10 minutes and were only average until then.

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois Rising on May 10, 2021, 12:00:47 PM
Smart move by Cheddar and the boys not showing their true potential yesterday. Have Wexford lulled into a false sense of security for the championship encounter later in the year.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Milltown Row2 on May 10, 2021, 01:46:30 PM
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on May 10, 2021, 10:40:29 AM
Funny what people take out of a game.

For me, Laois were at a much earlier level of readiness than other counties this weekend. Tried hard but the basic hurling skills were a good way off where they were last year. Couldn't rise a ball, couldn't strike cleanly and quickly, couldn't take a sideline cut, couldn't pass the ball and hold onto it all day and the shooting and decision making was awful. Just were not as sharp as we were even early last year and nowhere near as sharp as any other county. Easy to say early days but all other counties maybe except WH were way ahead. Wasn't all bad though. At times the backs were excellent but once the ball was moving forward it was a disaster. Roddy was sharp but got very little ball as moon shots were chosen despite almost all wides getting blown across the same side of the goal.

Nice to see Cha back although he had a stinker. Same with Ciarán Collier who tried hard. Need two scoring corner forwards urgently but backs and Midfield look more settled.

I hope the emphasis in training changes to hurling sharpness fairly soon or we are in for worse hidings. Wexford only pulled away in the last 10 minutes and were only average until then.

Would agree with a lot of that, Laois were doing well, if not scoring, but that will improve, slightly less physical than Wexford, Laois looked tired with ten to go and Chin's introduction certainly lifted their pace, the soft goals in the first half when the keeper should have just stayed on his line put a different reflection on the game and it would have been a tighter game.

Losing a player didnt help also, we'd a player in the Antrim game that did the same tackle and stayed on the pitch and no penalty, that rule needs looked at
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on May 10, 2021, 02:21:19 PM
I thought that the final score wasn't at all a reflection of the balance of the game. It is true of course that Wexford looked a little sharper (although to be honest, I didn't think they were any great shakes) and our shooting at times was bordering on the lunatic. There was too much running into tackles as mentioned earlier and probably not enough movement in the forward line.

But I do think that will improve. It's great to see PJ Scully in there and Cha and Collier back in the half forward line. We know there are much bigger performances in the likes of Paddy Purcell and Aaron Dunphy so overall I wouldn't be too despondent at this stage.

On our side, I thought the full back line was good (although they were often guilty of running into trouble with it) and Podge Delaney was excellent. Thought Fennell was very good in midfield too.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Ogie on May 15, 2021, 09:44:42 AM
Is it that big a job to release the correct team, it's only the league, going to throw out the same team every week now, supporters and starting players would appreciate correct announcements
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on May 15, 2021, 05:50:10 PM
Decent showing in the first half, both teams pretty evenly matched. Dublin a bit physically stronger which gives them a slight edge.

Two brilliant points by Ross just before half time keeping Laois on Dublin's heels.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: The Boy Wonder on May 15, 2021, 06:54:40 PM
At least 3 points conceded from turnovers following short puckouts to corner-backs.
Surely it's better to land the puckout as close to opposition goal as possible ?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on May 15, 2021, 08:03:49 PM
Also the keeper took a good few long range frees that were well off target, Laois worked hard but again Dublin seemed to win frees a lot easier. The final scoreline was probably a fair reflection on the game unlike last weeks.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on May 16, 2021, 09:19:09 AM
Yes would agree with that. Found this week's performance frustrating. It's obviously a strategy to feed the ball to the corner backs from puck outs and that might be fair enough (Cork did it well last night) but the idea that corner backs seem to be encouraged to run into opposition tacklers is a bit mind boggling to be honest. It's not great to see the same mistakes being repeated from one match to another.

There were too many frees conceded and again the forward play was really poor (not necessarily all the forwards' fault). The use of ling range frees was really poor too and just sucks the life out of the team.

I thought the best for us was Sean Downey and Cha. Paddy Purcell was very good in spots but we have to figure out a way to keep him more involved throughout the game.

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: SCFC on May 16, 2021, 01:26:37 PM
It's hard to think a team could be more dislikeable than the Dublin football team of the mid noughties (I actually quite like the current Dublin footballers) but by Jesus, that current Dublin hurling team are some mouthy, fist pumping, shower. Roaring after every f***ing turnover like a rugby team. Dicks.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on May 16, 2021, 02:01:04 PM
Quote from: Giovanni on May 16, 2021, 09:19:09 AM
Yes would agree with that. Found this week's performance frustrating. It's obviously a strategy to feed the ball to the corner backs from puck outs and that might be fair enough (Cork did it well last night) but the idea that corner backs seem to be encouraged to run into opposition tacklers is a bit mind boggling to be honest. It's not great to see the same mistakes being repeated from one match to another.

There were too many frees conceded and again the forward play was really poor (not necessarily all the forwards' fault). The use of ling range frees was really poor too and just sucks the life out of the team.

I thought the best for us was Sean Downey and Cha. Paddy Purcell was very good in spots but we have to figure out a way to keep him more involved throughout the game.



If you give away 14 scores from frees you're going to win nothing. Granted the ref was very trigger happy with whistle at times but turned over stupid ball from over carrying, 1 ball being caught 3 times.
We're lacking aerial ball winners up front with short puck outs as we still have difficulty winning our own ball.
I'm conscious it's new management and lot of players missing but giving 30 scores away with a sweeper  (not even goals conceded). Let PJ Scully go back and try few longer range frees going forward. Worth having some variety on free taking than leaving Rowland to try them.
It was an improvement to last week but hopefully will improve with games.
Still haven't played to anywhere near their potential yet.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on May 17, 2021, 01:59:37 PM
I thought that we had improved by the most you can realistically expect to improve inside a week. Loads of further improvement possible of course. Especially when bringing the ball out of defence and not conceding stupid frees. Diarmuid Conway played well enough for a young guy being dropped in for his first match. Any news on Lee Cleere?

Personnel wise, the backs look settled and will improve. Fiachra Fennell has made midfield his own alongside Paddy Purcell. Cha and Ciaran Collier had much better games and are adding alot in the half forward line. Aaron Dunphy will find form eventually. Roddy is our best forward by a mile. However, we need two corner forwards that look dangerous from play. Maybe PJ will grow into the role as he has from frees but will need to be far more aggressive attacking the ball. Not sure Ciaran Comerford is a natural corner forward, seems better out the field. Would like to see Mark Hennessey and Stephen Bergin getting more of a run.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: ottoman on May 17, 2021, 04:55:44 PM
Looked at Laois/Dublin, Cork/Tipp abd Limerick/Galway at the weekend and what a depressing sight all 3 were! Hurling has absolutely nose dived in that last 2 years, its actually becoming unwatchable in my eyes...
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on May 18, 2021, 11:11:34 AM
Yes, I was thinking that meself. Terrible to say it, but almost as bad as the football!

Looks like both Ryan Mullaney and Podge Delaney will be out of the half-back line for the next couple of games at least. In fairness to Whelan, he did all right on Sunday (except for nearly letting a Dublin lad through for a goal!), but it's an important line and we haven't an awful lot of cover there.

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: ottoman on May 18, 2021, 11:29:01 AM
Quote from: burdizzo on May 18, 2021, 11:11:34 AM
Yes, I was thinking that meself. Terrible to say it, but almost as bad as the football!

Looks like both Ryan Mullaney and Podge Delaney will be out of the half-back line for the next couple of games at least. In fairness to Whelan, he did all right on Sunday (except for nearly letting a Dublin lad through for a goal!), but it's an important line and we haven't an awful lot of cover there.

Its been played like football these days, loads of side to side 5 yard hand passes (that barley qualify as hand passes in my eyes) and then find a man in space who is able to launch it over from 100 yards now...absolute no direct ball going inside, the days of the lethal inside men (Kelly, Mullane, Power, Hayes etc) is gone!!

anyway back on topic with Laois...I don't think we can expect much more than what we are getting, the lads are clearly putting in the effort but the injuries are very costly to a team like us!! especially up front, Dunphy and Kavanagh are big losses...
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Brandon on May 23, 2021, 09:15:07 PM
Crap again today lads
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on May 23, 2021, 09:57:30 PM
Yes, it was crap. Terrible to watch. All the good lads seem to be injured. Or maybe Cheddar is keeping something up his sleeve for the Antrim game? However, I do get the feeling that it's all too sterile, tactical and considered with him, whereas at least Brennan had them with a bit of fire in their bellies. It could be unfair to say it, and the Antrim game will be the real test, but I sincerely hope we're not looking at a double relegation this year.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on May 23, 2021, 10:17:05 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on May 23, 2021, 09:57:30 PM
Yes, it was crap. Terrible to watch. All the good lads seem to be injured. Or maybe Cheddar is keeping something up his sleeve for the Antrim game? However, I do get the feeling that it's all too sterile, tactical and considered with him, whereas at least Brennan had them with a bit of fire in their bellies. It could be unfair to say it, and the Antrim game will be the real test, but I sincerely hope we're not looking at a double relegation this year.

Even if we were to beat Antrim and finish on the same number of points,we had an inferior points difference

We are facing Westmeath in a relegation final and have been since Antrim bet Clare
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on May 23, 2021, 10:45:55 PM
Does head to head not trump points difference? Probably irrelevant since they won't beat Antrim if we play like they did today. Not a chance.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on May 24, 2021, 12:50:47 PM
I didn't think it was all that bad to be honest, given how many are missing.

Positives:
- Roddy King
- Backs worked hard and turned Clare over many times for much of the match. All fell apart in 3rd quarter of the game but much of their scoring was done from out the field which we need to watch. Diarmuid Conway doesn't look out of his depth at inter county and Conor Phelan did well enough at times too.
- At half time we were still in it. Not just on the scoreboard but in general play.
Negatives:
- None of the forwards other than Roddy look like they can score from play. This is a pretty big negative. Urgently need lads back (Cha, Aaron etc.) Noises not good from Cheddar on injuries.
- I'd say we gave away another 1-5 yesterday from overplaying the ball in defence. What is this thing of trying to beat a player one-on-one from the corner back position? It should be the last option. What other county does this successfully? Might be fine if you are playing a division 2 team but not against the Clares, Dublins etc. In general we seem to be over elaborate in moving the ball. I sort of understand it from midfield to set a player in space because we have a total of one forward (Roddy) that can win a ball if it is pucked into him.
- Possession. We win one puckout in 10 from our own or opposition puck outs. Clare created a huge amount of their scoring chances from winning a ball on the ground in the ruck and sending a player into space. We won probably 20% of rucks.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on May 24, 2021, 02:02:13 PM
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on May 24, 2021, 12:50:47 PM
I didn't think it was all that bad to be honest, given how many are missing.

Positives:
- Roddy King
- Backs worked hard and turned Clare over many times for much of the match. All fell apart in 3rd quarter of the game but much of their scoring was done from out the field which we need to watch. Diarmuid Conway doesn't look out of his depth at inter county and Conor Phelan did well enough at times too.
- At half time we were still in it. Not just on the scoreboard but in general play.
Negatives:
- None of the forwards other than Roddy look like they can score from play. This is a pretty big negative. Urgently need lads back (Cha, Aaron etc.) Noises not good from Cheddar on injuries.
- I'd say we gave away another 1-5 yesterday from overplaying the ball in defence. What is this thing of trying to beat a player one-on-one from the corner back position? It should be the last option. What other county does this successfully? Might be fine if you are playing a division 2 team but not against the Clares, Dublins etc. In general we seem to be over elaborate in moving the ball. I sort of understand it from midfield to set a player in space because we have a total of one forward (Roddy) that can win a ball if it is pucked into him.
- Possession. We win one puckout in 10 from our own or opposition puck outs. Clare created a huge amount of their scoring chances from winning a ball on the ground in the ruck and sending a player into space. We won probably 20% of rucks.


I'll add one more of each.

Positive
Sean Downey is blossoming into a very good full back. A bit raw at times but improving no end.

Negative
Our basic skills. I lost count yesterday of the number of times we "almost" rose the ball. Lifting it but not catching it. Fumbling or being knocked off the ball. This sharpness needs to improve.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on May 24, 2021, 04:01:10 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on May 24, 2021, 02:02:13 PM
Quote from: blueandwhite1 on May 24, 2021, 12:50:47 PM
I didn't think it was all that bad to be honest, given how many are missing.

Positives:
- Roddy King
- Backs worked hard and turned Clare over many times for much of the match. All fell apart in 3rd quarter of the game but much of their scoring was done from out the field which we need to watch. Diarmuid Conway doesn't look out of his depth at inter county and Conor Phelan did well enough at times too.
- At half time we were still in it. Not just on the scoreboard but in general play.
Negatives:
- None of the forwards other than Roddy look like they can score from play. This is a pretty big negative. Urgently need lads back (Cha, Aaron etc.) Noises not good from Cheddar on injuries.
- I'd say we gave away another 1-5 yesterday from overplaying the ball in defence. What is this thing of trying to beat a player one-on-one from the corner back position? It should be the last option. What other county does this successfully? Might be fine if you are playing a division 2 team but not against the Clares, Dublins etc. In general we seem to be over elaborate in moving the ball. I sort of understand it from midfield to set a player in space because we have a total of one forward (Roddy) that can win a ball if it is pucked into him.
- Possession. We win one puckout in 10 from our own or opposition puck outs. Clare created a huge amount of their scoring chances from winning a ball on the ground in the ruck and sending a player into space. We won probably 20% of rucks.


I'll add one more of each.

Positive
Sean Downey is blossoming into a very good full back. A bit raw at times but improving no end.

Negative
Our basic skills. I lost count yesterday of the number of times we "almost" rose the ball. Lifting it but not catching it. Fumbling or being knocked off the ball. This sharpness needs to improve.

Totally agree on both counts. Sean Downey is a super hurler who can hurl anywhere. Doing a great job at the edge of the square as he did last year.

The almost rising the ball is the reason we lose so many winnable balls. Laois were impressive at this last year in the Clare championship match so hopefully it is just sharpness. You only get one go to get it clean off the ground at this level. I would imagine inter county teams drill their 'rucks' extensively.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on May 24, 2021, 07:02:23 PM
From my point of view this was really really poor.

While I don't disagree that the performance of a few of the lads was good (Sean Downey and Roddy have been consistently good as has been said) but the overall performance was really poor. We were in it at half time but at that stage Clare had hit about 10 bad wides. Laois had no threat whatsoever and from about 15 minutes the result looked inevitable.

The team has, of course, been decimated with injuries and this has to be taken into account but I don't see any real intent in the team (in the way that Eddie Brennan's team had). We look like we're going out to keep the score down rather than seeing how we can exploit their weaknesses. The forwards look like they can't take a score because they're totally isolated when the ball goes into them.

You have to take account of the injuries but I would be disappointed with the performances overall.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on May 25, 2021, 09:07:00 AM
Quote from: Giovanni on May 24, 2021, 07:02:23 PM
From my point of view this was really really poor.

While I don't disagree that the performance of a few of the lads was good (Sean Downey and Roddy have been consistently good as has been said) but the overall performance was really poor. We were in it at half time but at that stage Clare had hit about 10 bad wides. Laois had no threat whatsoever and from about 15 minutes the result looked inevitable.

The team has, of course, been decimated with injuries and this has to be taken into account but I don't see any real intent in the team (in the way that Eddie Brennan's team had). We look like we're going out to keep the score down rather than seeing how we can exploit their weaknesses. The forwards look like they can't take a score because they're totally isolated when the ball goes into them.

You have to take account of the injuries but I would be disappointed with the performances overall.

The fire is gone out of the team too. Very worryingly, we seemed to give up. Remember, we ran a much stronger clare team to a point not so long ago with a very spirited display. Last Sunday was a foregone conclusion from early enough.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on June 06, 2021, 03:29:42 PM
A much more encouraging display - best of the year so far. Good to see lads like Lyons, Dunphy, and Mullaney getting back, as well. In the first half, I really reckoned this short passing game wasn't for us, at all, but they got better as it went on. I know Kilkenny weren't full strength, and it was essentially a challenge match, but still... Again, it was a pity we couldn't have kept it under 10 points, and again we had a lot of wides, but at least things aren't as bleak as they looked after the Clare game. Good displays from Downey, Purcell, and even McEvoy did well enough, which is good to see because he has that bit of physicality.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 06, 2021, 09:14:53 PM
Thought the first 30 minutes was much like what we've seen in all of the games so far. It just looks much too intricate to me. We always look like we're ready to turn over ball.

The second half was much better though, particularly when Lee Cleere and Ryan Mullaney went into the back. There really wasn't much to choose between the teams in that second half - Kilkenny got their scores easier but I think that was more to do with the system of play than the quality of player. If we could get everyone fit, I think we'd have a competitive team. Much more encouraging
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on June 08, 2021, 01:33:34 PM
Some real positives from Sunday particularly the second half. Picky did well in the half back line, saw a bit more from Scully and in general our defense did very well. One thing that was evident right up until the end was the hooking, blocking and general harassing of the KK players when we didn't have the ball. There's no doubt that some of the players out through injury would make a huge difference but in fairness to those who are there, they are letting no one down and giving 100%. Some misplaced passes and errors were very frustrating and more often than not were punished.
KK were not at full strength but any lad given a jersey won't be getting another one if he doesn't perform for Coady so over all a good performance.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: LOVEGAA on June 08, 2021, 01:46:59 PM
Probably their best display this year.  More fight in them than any other game.

Accuracy is a big problem at the minute, but on a positive note Sean Downey gave an excellent display
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois man on June 09, 2021, 09:48:10 AM
His David Dooley gone to play Rugby fulltime? Best of luck to him if thats true.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on June 09, 2021, 05:03:33 PM
Just wondering if anyone is travelling up to Belfast on Saturday? I understand you have to have a ticket to get in so will anybody that's travelling have any spare tickets. I am going to travel up anyhow.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on June 09, 2021, 06:15:43 PM
Quote from: Laois man on June 09, 2021, 09:48:10 AM
His David Dooley gone to play Rugby fulltime? Best of luck to him if thats true.

See he's been called up to Leinster 19s squad. Assuming it's part of academy. More power to him best of luck!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 13, 2021, 05:52:19 PM
Poor showing again on Saturday. I just get the impression that there is a huge emphasis on defence and attack seems to have to look after itself. Whereas we looked like scoring goals every game under Brennan, we look toothless now (with arguably better forwards). We're just not going to be competitive unless we can score goals. We've proven we can do it so I don't see why we don't believe in ourselves a bit more on that front.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on June 14, 2021, 10:02:28 AM
Quote from: Giovanni on June 13, 2021, 05:52:19 PM
Poor showing again on Saturday. I just get the impression that there is a huge emphasis on defence and attack seems to have to look after itself. Whereas we looked like scoring goals every game under Brennan, we look toothless now (with arguably better forwards). We're just not going to be competitive unless we can score goals. We've proven we can do it so I don't see why we don't believe in ourselves a bit more on that front.

They mixed good with bad against a team that is competing extremely well this year. With a few minutes to go we were only a couple of points adrift in Antrim's home patch. We could have won that match, despite all the hype about Antrim. 20 wides including a few missed goal chances. Lots of lads trying to find form after layoffs - Picky, Willie Dunphy and to a lesser extent Cha and Aaron Dunphy. The target has to be to stay in Division 1 (beat Westmeath, no pushovers but a good challenge), give Wexford a good rattle, and keep our Liam McCarthy status (beating Antrim probably required). With everyone available and playing well and a big emphasis on hard hurling in training, I think there is a strong chance we can still have a good year. We are still improving. It is not as if we are targeting winning a Leinster final but the 3 prizes are still there to be won (compete against wexford, stay top tier in both league and championship).
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois Rising on June 14, 2021, 02:31:18 PM
Agree Blue and White. Covid and injuries have really deprived Cheddar of valuable time in the development of this Laois team. He is implementing a new style of hurling that will take time to embed. If Laois could survive in division 1 and championship for next year it is only then we will be able to see the fruits of Cheddar's labour. The likes of Cha, Scully etc. I feel will need a full year or so back training and playing intercounty hurling before they can truly reach full potential of their undoubted talents. If Kavanagh can make a successful recovery and Roddy, Dunphy stay motoring the nucleus of a talented forward line for 2022. I just hope Laois have the opportunity to showcase this at the top table in 2022.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 14, 2021, 05:42:31 PM
I'm not sure why we have to introduce a new style of hurling. The style that we had under Eddie Brennan was producing strong results so why are we changing it? Of course every manager has to put his own stamp on things but why would we throw the baby out with the bath water?

We are consistently having so many wides at least partly because we're shooting from mad positions. We're shooting from mad positions because there isn't enough support to the attack. Waterford were  at this for years and got nowhere. They're motoring in the last couple of years with a weaker squad by having a more attack-minded (and goal scoring) approach. To me, we should trust ourselves to go and compete rather than focusing on defence. We have a lot of very good hurlers now and we should trust them.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois man on June 14, 2021, 11:31:50 PM
Anybody at any of the senior club league games over the weekend?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Ogie on June 15, 2021, 02:19:25 AM
Nail on the head Giovanni
I don't get this requiring time to implement a completely new game plan, we have the same hurlers available with a few good additions, there is no need to re invent the wheel here, tweak it ya but keep progressing, not pause and reset, the mood around the camp is one of frustration at the moment.

At present id be nervous of the Westmeath game and could not see us beating Antrim to survive on current form.

Club league games seem to have been a mostly non event with most teams only having one game hurled, Camross training panel strength always sets them up well for the league and they have hit the ground running, BK will be concerned with leaking that many goals but im sure are trying like Ballacolla to time their run and peak in mid august.
Good win for Abbeyleix against a really under strength RE, missing their Intermediate panel too, good win for a young Castletown team.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on June 16, 2021, 10:58:54 AM
I thought it was a decent performance on Saturday. Again mistakes and poor passing was an issue. The wides have to be sorted out because we will not win a game with the amount of wides we are hitting. Hopefully the return of Willie and Cha and others will help in this regard. I though Picky played very well and is growing into his new role. There is great fight in the team and we have the potential to upset someone if it clicks on the day. There's also no guarantee that it will be Antrim we'll play as they have every chance of beating Dublin in the QF.
I wouldn't have the same doom and gloom as some of you.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on June 23, 2021, 08:26:14 AM
Very quiet build up to first round call Wexford on Saturday evening. Seem to have more injuries Diarmuid Conway and John Lennon added to list. Hopefully Laois can be more efficient with their shooting up front and hurl with some consistency rather than in small patches in last few games. Hopefully it will be an improved performance from last game vs Wexford.

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: portlaoisekid on June 24, 2021, 03:49:10 PM
The hope is all will click at the right time Saturday but I cant see it happening, everything has been so disjointed in every way so far its going to be a tough ask...

If we avoid relegation  this year it will be success and something to build on but by god its a far cry from All Ireland 1/4 day in 2019 .
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on June 24, 2021, 04:36:59 PM
Avoiding relegation would be a massive achievement. It feels like 'normal service resumed'. But we shall see.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois Rising on June 25, 2021, 10:55:27 AM
Can posters be realistic here please. Laois have been seriously hampered by injuries this year and with such a short period of contact time for the new management what more could Cheddar have been expected to get out of this Laois team. Even with a number of players returning from injury for tomorrow's game, they realistically cannot be expected to be fully match sharp. It's unfortunate how things have played out. However, Cheddar has got Cha and Scully back on board. It will take another season I reckon before we will see the best of them at intercounty level. With Kavanagh hopefully back next year, along with the likes of Comerford who is developing all the time and stalwarts like Dunphy, Purcell and King staying onboard it's going to be 2022 before we see the true potential of this Laois side.   

Quote from: burdizzo on June 24, 2021, 04:36:59 PM
Avoiding relegation would be a massive achievement. It feels like 'normal service resumed'. But we shall see.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on June 25, 2021, 11:20:20 AM
Well said Laois Rising.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on June 25, 2021, 12:35:33 PM
Quote from: Laois Rising on June 25, 2021, 10:55:27 AM
Can posters be realistic here please. Laois have been seriously hampered by injuries this year and with such a short period of contact time for the new management what more could Cheddar have been expected to get out of this Laois team. Even with a number of players returning from injury for tomorrow's game, they realistically cannot be expected to be fully match sharp. It's unfortunate how things have played out. However, Cheddar has got Cha and Scully back on board. It will take another season I reckon before we will see the best of them at intercounty level. With Kavanagh hopefully back next year, along with the likes of Comerford who is developing all the time and stalwarts like Dunphy, Purcell and King staying onboard it's going to be 2022 before we see the true potential of this Laois side.   

Quote from: burdizzo on June 24, 2021, 04:36:59 PM
Avoiding relegation would be a massive achievement. It feels like 'normal service resumed'. But we shall see.

That's all well and good but the present is what it's all about. You can't keep talking about next year and you can be as sure as there's shit in a field that something else will be wrong next year.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 25, 2021, 03:51:34 PM
I agree Zooming Around. Of course, given all the injuries, etc. it is possible to understand that it would be tough to win matches early in the year. The fact that we have lost is not my problem. My problem is the manner of our performances - the savage work rate and have-a-go attitude that we saw previously has dramatically tailed off. We lost plenty of games under Eddie Brennan too but we always had a proper go and there were performance floors that we never fell below no matter what injuries we had. Cheddar is a smart guy and there may be a strategy behind this but I would be extremely disappointed if we don't see a better performance against Wexford - win, lose or draw.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: G@@ on June 25, 2021, 10:36:52 PM
So, here we are on the saddleboard of yet another championship season - they really start coming thick and fast as you approach mid-life.

Laois v Wexford tomorrow evening at tea-time.

It has been a weird two years now and for hurling purists this years championship should be like free beer at a bar considering what has passed.

However, I'm baffled. The hurling championship is based on an "almost" knock-out basis, a thing of the 90s and the preceding decades, yet there is barely a mention of what the purists have always craved. Strange.

Anyways, the negatives have been highlighted on this thread about our prospects this year, so lets throw a little caution to the wind and think about how we might actually win this game despite our razor thin chances.


Will any of the above mean for much tomorrow evening, probably not, but hey - lets try be somewhat positive!  ;D
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 26, 2021, 09:55:01 AM
It's a good team picked for this evening.

If they work like dogs, really go for it and are a bit smarter with the shooting, they shouldn't be far away. Good luck to them.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: portlaoisekid on June 26, 2021, 08:19:27 PM
Jesus, that was awful ..I was hopeful we could show something tonight to suggest positivity with regards the relegation play offs that are ahead but by God that was awful ..
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: G@@ on June 26, 2021, 08:32:38 PM
That was hard to watch. Very hard.

Awful amount of wides, two goal chances fluffed too.

We've really regressed.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: The Rover on June 26, 2021, 08:55:30 PM
Laois hurlers are better than that display Today.
the tacti's were way off 14 players in midfield and defense for most of the first half, how could we be competitive when we had no outball.
management have to take a lot of the blame for this display.
it would have been a shock if  laois were to win but no shock if we were competitive, I have to say we cannot blame the hurlers for this embarrassing display.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 26, 2021, 08:56:51 PM
I can't understand how anyone could imagine that conceding  possession until the opposition gets to their own 65 could possibly be a winning strategy. And on the other hand, our full back line has been conceding needless turnovers since the season started. I just don't get it at all. It just can't work in hurling.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois man on June 26, 2021, 09:01:36 PM
Shocking shit best forward playing in the backs embarrassing to look at.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laoisred on June 26, 2021, 10:24:36 PM
Shocking is right but not unexpected. Carried the terrible league form into the championship. Only hope now is to get one decent performance this year v Antrim to try and retain championship status. That would give Laois another game as prep to try and retain league status v Westmeath.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on June 26, 2021, 10:40:28 PM
Yeah, and it's not inconceivable that they would beat Antrim (who got a big enough beating today, too) at a neutral venue. Obviously, it would be great to do that and hope we can build something next year, but if we can't be some way competitive, then you really have to wonder. On the other hand, drop back to McDonagh, and would we be able for a resurgent Offaly, either?
One of the few players who somewhat surprised today was Scully, who I've never really rated as an intercounty forward before. I thought he did quite well. Some of the lads who were good under Brennan, on the other hand, were simply woeful this evening.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Keyser Söze on June 27, 2021, 12:01:49 AM
With all due respect to Cheddar, what he is setting Laois up to do makes zero sense. It couldn't work and I'm not sure how it could be any clearer that it isn't working.
It's essentially a small step away from giving a walkover.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 27, 2021, 12:10:26 AM
Couldn't agree more Keyser
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Gmac on June 27, 2021, 01:41:03 AM
Quote from: Giovanni on June 26, 2021, 08:56:51 PM
I can't understand how anyone could imagine that conceding  possession until the opposition gets to their own 65 could possibly be a winning strategy. And on the other hand, our full back line has been conceding needless turnovers since the season started. I just don't get it at all. It just can't work in hurling.
and the goalkeeper still pucking the ball up to a 3 on 1 in the first half , I turned it off at half time thank god .
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: on the hop on June 27, 2021, 11:32:28 AM
The tactics were bizarre yesterday which didn't help, Wexford won 40/42 of their own puckouts and won a further 20 of our puckouts which was nearly half. I would love to see the explanation on why we decided to tactically concede to them and let them build up play
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: bluespower on June 27, 2021, 04:33:50 PM
Saw this comment on another forum from a non Laois person and i think it sums us up alright.

"Typical Laois - one step forward (2019) and then five steps back"
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 27, 2021, 04:53:01 PM
https://www.laoistoday.ie/2021/06/27/cheddar-theres-no-denying-wexford-were-a-far-better-team-but-we-have-to-make-sure-we-stay-at-this-level-of-hurling/
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: High Fielder on June 27, 2021, 07:14:00 PM
Quote from: bluespower on June 27, 2021, 04:33:50 PM
Saw this comment on another forum from a non Laois person and i think it sums us up alright.

"Typical Laois - one step forward (2019) and then five steps back"

Agreed. Cheddar saved the CB's bacon but in truth, letting Brennan go was a shot to our own foot. Same with Sugrue. Things are hard enough for us without constantly making these f**k ups
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on June 27, 2021, 08:38:24 PM
Quote from: High Fielder on June 27, 2021, 07:14:00 PM
Quote from: bluespower on June 27, 2021, 04:33:50 PM
Saw this comment on another forum from a non Laois person and i think it sums us up alright.

"Typical Laois - one step forward (2019) and then five steps back"

Agreed. Cheddar saved the CB's bacon but in truth, letting Brennan go was a shot to our own foot. Same with Sugrue. Things are hard enough for us without constantly making these f**k ups

And yet nothing will be done about the people who constantly make these f**k ups, especially the ones who hate hurling and are happy to see Laois hurling go backward.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on June 27, 2021, 09:22:13 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 27, 2021, 08:38:24 PM

And yet nothing will be done about the people who constantly make these f**k ups, especially the ones who hate hurling and are happy to see Laois hurling go backward.

And THIS is the problem!
At u15 level, some hurling teams are only sure to get THREE matches. I must admit, I haven't bothered to look up the football format for the same age group, but I'd be stunned if teams weren't getting more than that.
But then again, why aren't hurling people getting into positions of influence in the CB?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on June 27, 2021, 09:34:27 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on June 27, 2021, 09:22:13 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 27, 2021, 08:38:24 PM

And yet nothing will be done about the people who constantly make these f**k ups, especially the ones who hate hurling and are happy to see Laois hurling go backward.

And THIS is the problem!
At u15 level, some hurling teams are only sure to get THREE matches. I must admit, I haven't bothered to look up the football format for the same age group, but I'd be stunned if teams weren't getting more than that.
But then again, why aren't hurling people getting into positions of influence in the CB?

That's incorrect

The championship at u13 and u15 is structured so that after 3 games

The top 2 in each group go to the A,Bottom 2 go to the B

And then there's another 3 games to decide semifinalists in both A and B

Each team will be getting a minimum of 7 games
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on June 27, 2021, 10:05:19 PM
No - that, I'm afraid, is not the case. There are 14 teams at u15: thus two groups of three (two games), and two groups of four (three games). The subsequent 'A' championship proper (of 8 teams - top two in each group) is knockout. Therefore, some teams are sure of only three games.
Maybe you're talking about the football??!!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on June 27, 2021, 10:08:09 PM
Good Jesus yee are here talking about u13 u15 ffs ,, loosing Eddie was criminal loosimg John prob not as much because we were lucky to stay in division 2 lucky to get there in the first place at the end of the dat both sets footballers are a div 4 team and hurlers we celebrated as if the mcdonagh cup was Liam McCarthy and we did and now we could be back there ffs mcdonagh cup waste of time hurlers and footballers realistically are poor unfortunately
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on June 27, 2021, 10:12:42 PM
Maybe we should just compete at u13 u15 ffs on a senior hurling thread lol some men here ffs lol
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on June 28, 2021, 09:44:29 AM
Quote from: burdizzo on June 27, 2021, 09:22:13 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 27, 2021, 08:38:24 PM

And yet nothing will be done about the people who constantly make these f**k ups, especially the ones who hate hurling and are happy to see Laois hurling go backward.

And THIS is the problem!
At u15 level, some hurling teams are only sure to get THREE matches. I must admit, I haven't bothered to look up the football format for the same age group, but I'd be stunned if teams weren't getting more than that.
But then again, why aren't hurling people getting into positions of influence in the CB?

Sorry, I'd say you picked me up wrong. I wasn't talking about our juvenile structures and fixtures.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: High Fielder on June 28, 2021, 10:39:05 AM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 27, 2021, 08:38:24 PM
Quote from: High Fielder on June 27, 2021, 07:14:00 PM
Quote from: bluespower on June 27, 2021, 04:33:50 PM
Saw this comment on another forum from a non Laois person and i think it sums us up alright.

"Typical Laois - one step forward (2019) and then five steps back"

Agreed. Cheddar saved the CB's bacon but in truth, letting Brennan go was a shot to our own foot. Same with Sugrue. Things are hard enough for us without constantly making these f**k ups

And yet nothing will be done about the people who constantly make these f**k ups, especially the ones who hate hurling and are happy to see Laois hurling go backward.

What the hurlers or footballers do is immaterial unfortunately. It's not like they are judged on their performance. The nodding dogs will still ratify them next year.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on June 28, 2021, 10:49:58 AM
There's a huge issue with governance and the running of hurling within this county and it hasn't gotten any better.

Mark my words gentlemen

We will look back on the eddie brennan era with fond memories in 15/20/25 years time

As we will have nothing to to sustain us in the meantime.

The manpower nor the will isn't in the county to drive long term meaningful change for hurling in this county that's the reality.

I don't blame cheddar,far from it.

His heart yet again has over ruled his head for him to come back,if he has any sense he will go and get a club job in a hurling county,when our season comes to its inevitable damp squib conclusion
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on June 28, 2021, 11:40:31 AM
Quote from: High Fielder on June 28, 2021, 10:39:05 AM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 27, 2021, 08:38:24 PM
Quote from: High Fielder on June 27, 2021, 07:14:00 PM
Quote from: bluespower on June 27, 2021, 04:33:50 PM
Saw this comment on another forum from a non Laois person and i think it sums us up alright.

"Typical Laois - one step forward (2019) and then five steps back"

Agreed. Cheddar saved the CB's bacon but in truth, letting Brennan go was a shot to our own foot. Same with Sugrue. Things are hard enough for us without constantly making these f**k ups

And yet nothing will be done about the people who constantly make these f**k ups, especially the ones who hate hurling and are happy to see Laois hurling go backward.

What the hurlers or footballers do is immaterial unfortunately. It's not like they are judged on their performance. The nodding dogs will still ratify them next year.


I wouldn't confine it to just those who are ratified.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on June 28, 2021, 04:48:25 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on June 28, 2021, 10:49:58 AM
I don't blame cheddar,far from it.

His heart yet again has over ruled his head for him to come back,if he has any sense he will go and get a club job in a hurling county,when our season comes to its inevitable damp squib conclusion

Cheddar is doing his best, no doubt about it. He gives his heart and soul to Laois and came in when few would have been enthusiastic. However, I don't think hurling tactics has ever been his strongpoint. We got it completely wrong on Saturday and it has been building that way all year (over-playing at the back, ineffective strategy for winning and retaining possession, poor transition into the forwards and no intensity in defending). Eddie was much more shrewd on the sideline. Personally, would love to see Cheddar in an administrative / hurling development role with full control over how hurling is organized in the county.

Saying all that - the goal this year is survival in the league and championship. Hopefully there is some fast learning from the defensive show last Saturday.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on June 28, 2021, 05:07:09 PM
Fully agree Blueandwhite. I'm sure that he would have a similar impact to Michael Duignan in Offaly if given the chance.

Having said that, there are enough lads in the backroom team to help him out with team preparations and tactics. He shouldn't have to take it all on himself.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: portlaoisekid on June 29, 2021, 11:18:12 AM
Its all about the Antrim match now, its absolutely vital we win. Cheddar has made no secret of the fact we need to get through this year without being relegated and then hit the ground running in 2022....

Im not making excuses for him but everything has been so disjointed for the mgt team from the start, I tend to think he is the best man for the job but it'll be a hammer blow to get relegated.

The real question is how we get out of the cycle of bouncing around the divisions/championships and actually get to a place where we are truly competitive?

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois Rising on June 29, 2021, 12:05:25 PM
This year was always about survival in the Leinster championship and league. What I couldn't get my head around was the fact that we had so many players back and yet Wexford always had a man over or coming through to take a simple hand pass before popping the ball over the bar. Laois needed to meet Wexford with intensity in the first fifteen minutes of the game and challenge them high up the field. Instead we let them walk the ball up the field, pick their passes and nonchalantly tap over points at will. It was embarrassing stuff from beginning to end. The only consolation after such a poor performance at the weekend you would imagine that there will be a reaction by the players for the Antrim game. Our players who have only returned from injury will be the better for having a run out and getting another two weeks training under their belts before Antrim game. 
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Zooming around on June 29, 2021, 04:49:43 PM
U2os out tonight. Doesn't look an overly strong team but should have enough for Westmeath.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on June 29, 2021, 05:35:40 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 29, 2021, 04:49:43 PM
U2os out tonight. Doesn't look an overly strong team but should have enough for Westmeath.

Best of luck indeed. Won't be easy particularly in a as timer conditions this evening in Portlaoise.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laoisred on June 29, 2021, 11:32:04 PM
Laois tactics last weekend were nothing short of nuts. Giving up possession (and try to play on the break) against the team with the most mobile, running style in the country. And to persist with it was nearly as bad. It never gave our team a hope. Someone in the 'young,vibrant, impressive' management team weren't doing their job or if they did, it wasn't heeded. Wexford on the other hand clearly took on board Niall Corcorans insight and targeted certain Laois players and sectors. The difference was stark.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: The Rover on June 30, 2021, 12:58:39 AM
Quote from: Helix. on June 29, 2021, 05:35:40 PM
Quote from: Zooming around on June 29, 2021, 04:49:43 PM
U2os out tonight. Doesn't look an overly strong team but should have enough for Westmeath.

Best of luck indeed. Won't be easy particularly in a as timer conditions this evening in Portlaoise.
U20's with a 6 point win after extra time laois were 15 points up at one stage and then needed a late free to bring the game to extra time.
where was David Dooley not listed on the team or subs after been selected to play with the senior team earlier in the year only to be ruled out because he was to young for senior inter county hurling
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Spiritof1915 on June 30, 2021, 06:52:28 AM
Quote from: The Rover on June 30, 2021, 12:58:39 AM
Quote from: Helix. on June 29, 2021, 05:35:40 PM

David dooley has gone full time with Leinster in their rugby academy. Shame for Laois hurling but cant blame any young lad who wants to try his hand at a professional sport.
Quote from: Zooming around on June 29, 2021, 04:49:43 PM
U2os out tonight. Doesn't look an overly strong team but should have enough for Westmeath.

Best of luck indeed. Won't be easy particularly in a as timer conditions this evening in Portlaoise.
U20's with a 6 point win after extra time laois were 15 points up at one stage and then needed a late free to bring the game to extra time.
where was David Dooley not listed on the team or subs after been selected to play with the senior team earlier in the year only to be ruled out because he was to young for senior inter county hurling
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on June 30, 2021, 10:04:42 AM
Any win is welcome.

To be that far ahead and then have to level it with the last puck of the game shows a bit of character.

Huge score to put up but yes a mad score to concede. Still it's the first outing so hopefully some lessons learned.

What are the minors like this year?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on June 30, 2021, 11:00:19 AM
Careful - I got chided for talking underage stuff on this thread. Now we're on about the minors and u20s... Sheesh.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 10, 2021, 03:17:37 PM
My goodness!
Shooting much improved, and limiting those short puckouts is definitely a good idea. Some goal from Purcell. Thought that Antrim corner back could have got a second yellow for a pull on Ross' hand. Podge Delaney got one for the same thing, only McManus made a real meal of it.
Hope they can keep their composure now, though!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 10, 2021, 03:47:44 PM
Oh no, its like the football match last week.  The hurlers were fantastic in the first half and it seemed like the second half would be a formality but they are totally collapsing in front of my eyes and like the footballers are down a man now just when we need all hands on deck. They still lead at the badly needed water break and its a massive test now for this Laois team, if they come out of this with a win it will be some effort.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on July 10, 2021, 04:08:13 PM
Thank f**k. Great effort a win is a win and Liam McCarthy status for 2022. Follow it up against Westmeath.
Right time to perform best performance of the year.
Onwards and upwards.  ;D
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 10, 2021, 04:09:30 PM
Well that was epic, after a brilliant first half the third quarter was as complete disaster conceding 2 goals and going down to 14 men and could have been even worse but for a penalty save. In fairness after the water break every single Laois man showed what they are made of, they dug deep and pulled out a memorable win. Hats off to them
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 10, 2021, 04:18:29 PM
Phew!
That sin-binning was a joke. Actually, Mullaney's trip a bit later was a more likely candidate for a sin-bin penalty. I assume that's why he was whipped off.
Anyway, great to get that win, and fair play to them. Came good at the right time!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on July 10, 2021, 06:03:29 PM
Brilliant performance and win. Agree that the sin-bin / penalty rule is a farce and needs to go.

Considering our best forward was sent off and Antrim brought it back to 2 points it was a comprehensive response with leaders everywhere.

There were brilliant performances all around. Scores came from everywhere. Can't ask any more of them.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: SCFC on July 10, 2021, 06:53:19 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on July 10, 2021, 03:17:37 PM
Thought that Antrim corner back could have got a second yellow for a pull on Ross' hand. Podge Delaney got one for the same thing
Spot on. He should have been red carded after 15 minutes. Fair sickener to see Roddy sent off afterwards.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: G@@ on July 10, 2021, 07:43:38 PM
I'm beaming after watching that! Totally delighted for the lads who have trained as hard as any other county and came away from every game without a win until today. The Laois team totally deserved their win today and they can be proud of what could be considered the most important Laois win in a long time. They can go in to their next game without any pressure now and try and build for the Westmeath league relegation game. Westmeath are a team which only had a point to spare against Kildare today. They most likely now will meet Kerry in the final of the Joe McDonagh Cup on 17th July.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois man on July 10, 2021, 09:19:54 PM
Today we hurled no sweeper shit and we stayed up thank god👍
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 10, 2021, 09:24:33 PM
Delighted for everyone connected with the team. There is a lot of talent in that dressing room and it's good to see it coming through in the end. Good to see them trying to work goals when it's on and the shooting was a bit better (although still plenty of work to do on that score). Delighted for them and hopefully we can see a further improvement next day out.

I thought the referee was pathetic - the sin binning was ridiculous, the sending off was not justified and But then he let a clear foul go in the lead up to Laois' second goal. Really poor.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: north_antrim_hound on July 10, 2021, 10:20:23 PM
Well done the best team won. Gutted we are going down the Mc Donagh again but that's where we are at. All the best in qualifiers.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 10, 2021, 10:28:44 PM
Very graceful of you - fair play. I was dreading Laois going down, because it'd be difficult enough to get out of it again. I'd say Offaly will be a more serious force in the next couple of years, and of course, there's all the talk about Kildare coming. However, Antrim have been motoring well last year and this, and I suppose Div 1 hurling will stand to them again next year.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on July 11, 2021, 12:04:44 AM
Oh good Jesus yee are here raving how great it is to stay up when Eddie has us beaten Dublin competing with Tipperary ffs will yee cop on its a pure shambles with supporters buying into mediocrity if I'm wrong look at Eddie's results ,,talk about the county board me arse look at the tripe been written ffs
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on July 11, 2021, 12:07:26 AM
Let's win Jmd and celebrate like it's mr Liam Mac the whole thinking needs routing out small mentality
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Saffrongael on July 11, 2021, 12:07:39 AM
Quote from: Giovanni on July 10, 2021, 09:24:33 PM
Delighted for everyone connected with the team. There is a lot of talent in that dressing room and it's good to see it coming through in the end. Good to see them trying to work goals when it's on and the shooting was a bit better (although still plenty of work to do on that score). Delighted for them and hopefully we can see a further improvement next day out.

I thought the referee was pathetic - the sin binning was ridiculous, the sending off was not justified and But then he let a clear foul go in the lead up to Laois' second goal. Really poor.

Sean Cleere hasn't the first notion
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois man on July 11, 2021, 12:47:11 PM
Why is there no score club updates on the WTS app. All other County club score updates are on it.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 11, 2021, 04:11:37 PM
Quote from: town1980 on July 11, 2021, 12:04:44 AM
Oh good Jesus yee are here raving how great it is to stay up when Eddie has us beaten Dublin competing with Tipperary ffs will yee cop on its a pure shambles with supporters buying into mediocrity if I'm wrong look at Eddie's results ,,talk about the county board me arse look at the tripe been written ffs

No one is saying this is better than when Eddie was in charge, he did a super job and it is a shame he is not still in charge, but thats not the players fault. People are delighted as it looked like this season would be a huge disaster and setback for Laois hurling where they don't win one game and get demoted in both league and championship. I don't think any Laois supporter would like to see that.

Although it was not a Tipp or a wexford we beat, it was true knockout championship and Laois played brilliant hurling in the first half, it almost fell apart but in fairness the lads who had to play a decent spell down 2 men battled manfully and pulled the result out of the fire. If Im honest I did not see the first half performance coming and it was nice to see Laois take the shackles off.

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laoisred on July 11, 2021, 04:29:30 PM
Have to agree with Joey, the first half performance came from nowhere in terms of recent form. Played at a different level to anything we've seen this year. And they were set up better from the off as well. Well done to the players and management who reacted well to a very heavy Wexford defeat.
A good performance the next day v Clare, Cork or whoever and carry that display into WM. Would be a positive way to end a difficult season.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 12, 2021, 08:40:13 AM
Waterford.

The best we could've got?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: SCFC on July 12, 2021, 09:54:22 AM
Quote from: burdizzo on July 12, 2021, 08:40:13 AM
Waterford.

The best we could've got?
It probably is but it's a huge step up. At the end of the day, they are last year's All-Ireland finalists.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laoisred on July 12, 2021, 10:01:33 AM
It would be a little easier if they are still missing their 4 best hurlers the next day - Prunty, De Burca, Barron and O'Mahony.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 12, 2021, 11:33:08 AM
It is a huge step up from Antrim, but it would be nice to see Laois play in the same aggressive attacking manner as they did in the first half against Antrim and see how far it gets them. Im sure last years All Ireland finalist's will be expected to beat Laois comfortably but it will be a good test of where our boys stand. 
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 12, 2021, 11:58:12 AM
Great result and a really gutsy performance. They fought like dogs and there is room for improvement.

Paddy Purcell will be sore after taking a couple of big hits. Great leadership from him and his goals were very important, particularly the second one.

PJ Scully impressed too and he's grown into his roe with the county. Two great sideline cuts, one from either side of the pitch. Like the rest of them he never stopped running.

Waterford a big step up but like Clare last year we just need to be confident and do the same again. As Cheddar says ' Foot to the floor hurling for 70 minutes.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: G@@ on July 12, 2021, 12:15:17 PM
https://www.laoistoday.ie/2021/07/11/cheddar-ive-to-give-incredible-credit-to-each-and-every-laois-player/

QuoteSince taking on the Laois hurling manager's role for the second time, it's been a tough run of games for Cheddar Plunkett.

As the only Liam MacCarthy Cup manager in his first season, in the middle of a global pandemic that seriously disrupted collective preparation, he's also had to put up with a lengthy injury list and one that made a tough league schedule even harder.

The poor performance against Wexford in the opening round of the championship and the subsequent heavy defeat had Laois as hot favourites to be relegated back to the Joe McDonagh Cup.


But on a glorious afternoon in Parnell Park on Saturday, Laois put in a thunderous performance in a belter of a game to beat Antrim 2-27 to 2-21.

It saves their status in the Leinster championship for 2022 and sends them forward to a Round 1 All Ireland Qualifier next week against Cork, Clare or Waterford.


On a day when they saw an 11-point lead pulled back to two, while losing Sean Downey to a sin bin, Ross King to a red card and conceding a penalty, it took great Laois character to see out the game.

The win was hugely significant in so many ways but that character on display was roundly praised too by Cheddar when he addressed the media afterwards.

"It was all about winning," he said. "The result obviously meant that Laois play championship hurling next year and gives us a chance to get reorganised and refocused and bounce back into a Leinster hurling championship next year.


"This has been a very, very tough year. A new management team came in in a pandemic. In my time and I've been involved with teams a long time, it's probably the biggest injury crisis of key players of any team I've ever been involved with.

"One day we'd have somebody back – we actually had Picky picked to play right half back and we lost him yesterday and that would just show you the difficult things we've had to work with this year.

"But I've to give incredible credit to each and every Laois player. Their commitment, their digging out the win, their digging out the ball and making sure we stayed on the front foot.

"Antrim had a chance and maybe if they'd have scored it they had momentum behind them at that stage, they definitely had numbers behind them, I think they were playing with two extra men around that time.

"If they'd to score it, it might have been tighter at the finish. But you've got to credit Laois, they came out with ball after ball.

"I think when a team is playing with that much fight, you always have hope. When we played Antrim in Corrigan Park, we learned an awful lot that day about what makes Antrim tick.

"We got some of those things right today. I think that stood us well. Our organisation and the way we played was a little bit different but it was very close.

"It's just brilliant to stay in this championship but I'm really, really aware and very clear what the team needs to do to step up and be competitive at the top level. I hope we get the time in the rest of the year and the start of next year to prepare for that level of competition because it's very different than what we're playing at.

"More important than anything we have a game against Westmeath to stay in Division 1 of the league. We've a game next Sunday but also that other game against Westmeath is hugely important to us so that's going to be our focus."

Their intensity from the first whistle was what really set the foundation for the win as Laois raced into an early lead – and never trailed.

"You can play all the tactical systems you like but without that level of real workrate – and these are all cliched words I hear them the whole time – but they are really, really important. And without that you can do all you like, you're not going to get it.

"I thought Laois, to a man, brought it, including the people on the sideline, including the people who went in brought that.

"But I've seen that in some games – second half up in Corrigan Park, second half in Nowlan Park, there were snatches of the whole team collectively going toe to toe and going for it. I thought we got the 70 minutes of it today and that's what made the difference."

The Portlaoise man added that there needs to be a level of realism within Laois as to where the county stands.

"I'd be surprised by some of the commentary," he added.

"We were playing Division 1 teams – All Ireland-winning teams, that's who you're playing. Laois were playing at one stage with 11 of the top 20 players missing, probably 11 starters. You saw what happened Waterford when they were missing Prunty and Barron. You just can't do it at this level.

"This is no disrespect to Antrim or Westmeath, Carlow, Laois. All of us are in this together. You've got to make really dramatic improvements to beat these (top) teams.

!Let's look at the facts, let's look at our record, we haven't beaten a top team – with the exception of Dublin three years ago in the championship – in God knows how many years.

"We haven't beaten them and yet people are saying this is their third defeat, fourth defeat. People need to wise up about the gap Laois hurling needs to make up – at minor, U-21, any level to be competitive against the top teams.

"We're going to do our bloody best with this team and give them every opportunity to win these matches but it is a vast gulf ... they are the facts and you cannot dodge those.

"I think it would be really helpful for Laois hurling if we dealt in reality and in facts of where we are and how can we get up to there, rather than the number of defeats."

Very interesting interview.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 12, 2021, 02:21:09 PM
I have the feeling that Cheddar really believes this and, on this basis, his starting point is to limit the damage when he is playing the so-called bigger teams.

However, I don't think he's right on this. I genuinely feel that this current bunch of players are at a level that is similar to Wexford, Clare, and Dublin. This is not to say that we should be expecting to beat these teams but it does mean that we should expect to be competitive. There was no disgrace in losing to Tipp by 4 points and there would have been no disgrace if we'd lost to Dublin by a point in 2019. The main point is we were competitive and, if anything, the the quality of player is better now than it was then. The gap just isn't that big and I don't like the narrative that we're all in this together with Westmeath and Carlow. That's not to disrespect those teams but we've got to believe that we should be at the top table. If we don't we're never going to make it.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on July 13, 2021, 12:34:53 AM
Last year running tipp close this year it's unreal to beat Antrim ffs it's no different than jumping around the place after winning the joe mcdonagh cup jeez Christ simple as Eddie is a v v v bad loss to Laois hurling know disrespect to cheddar but we have. Regressed totally
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 13, 2021, 07:59:51 AM
In fairness, the old form was back in the first half on Saturday.

But let's face it, we got a fair old hiding off Dublin under Eddie last year, too. And only managed to beat Carlow in the league - and that by one point. And we probably only got so close to Clare because they had a lad sent off. Nevertheless, Giovanni is right - we should be setting our sights higher than the Joe McD counties, and I do think there was a bit of a sparkle under Eddie that's only been evident this year against Antrim. But, y'know, sad and all as it was to lose Eddie, he was never going to stay. I know the county board gave him an easy way out, but he sort of became quite a hot property after we beat Dublin.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 13, 2021, 10:16:08 AM
Quote from: town1980 on July 13, 2021, 12:34:53 AM
Last year running tipp close this year it's unreal to beat Antrim ffs it's no different than jumping around the place after winning the joe mcdonagh cup jeez Christ simple as Eddie is a v v v bad loss to Laois hurling know disrespect to cheddar but we have. Regressed totally

Again you post males no sense, 'Regressed totally'?? How exactly, we get that Eddie Brennan was excellent and really got the best out of the group but we are still in the bloody championship despite all the setbacks this year. Laois are the only county to have taken on a new manager during the pandemic so straight away its no normal season for them, they had had a host of injuries to deal with and losing a run of games culminating in a bad championship beating at the hands of Wexford. Not easy for the group to take and given how well Antrim performed in the league it looked like we would be dropping back to JMcD cup.

Yet they showed what they are made of and although there will be plenty of sore bodies and tired limbs after that, they have to pick themselves up and take on last years All Ireland finalists a week later who lets face it will be expected to slaughter Laois. How about we get behind these lads who are giving it everything rather than moaning about things.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: portlaoisekid on July 13, 2021, 12:32:58 PM
Quote from: Joeythelips on July 13, 2021, 10:16:08 AM
Quote from: town1980 on July 13, 2021, 12:34:53 AM
Last year running tipp close this year it's unreal to beat Antrim ffs it's no different than jumping around the place after winning the joe mcdonagh cup jeez Christ simple as Eddie is a v v v bad loss to Laois hurling know disrespect to cheddar but we have. Regressed totally

Again you post males no sense, 'Regressed totally'?? How exactly, we get that Eddie Brennan was excellent and really got the best out of the group but we are still in the bloody championship despite all the setbacks this year. Laois are the only county to have taken on a new manager during the pandemic so straight away its no normal season for them, they had had a host of injuries to deal with and losing a run of games culminating in a bad championship beating at the hands of Wexford. Not easy for the group to take and given how well Antrim performed in the league it looked like we would be dropping back to JMcD cup.

Yet they showed what they are made of and although there will be plenty of sore bodies and tired limbs after that, they have to pick themselves up and take on last years All Ireland finalists a week later who lets face it will be expected to slaughter Laois. How about we get behind these lads who are giving it everything rather than moaning about things.
Well said
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on July 13, 2021, 12:41:34 PM
Quote from: town1980 on July 13, 2021, 12:34:53 AM
Last year running tipp close this year it's unreal to beat Antrim ffs it's no different than jumping around the place after winning the joe mcdonagh cup jeez Christ simple as Eddie is a v v v bad loss to Laois hurling know disrespect to cheddar but we have. Regressed totally

running tipp close is getting bet by 10 points?

and no we havent "regressed totally" when at times during the league,we were missing up to 11 starters.

No county could sustain that level of injuries never mind a county with such a small playing base as Laois.

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on July 13, 2021, 01:49:15 PM
Quote from: clonadmad on July 13, 2021, 12:41:34 PM
Quote from: town1980 on July 13, 2021, 12:34:53 AM
Last year running tipp close this year it's unreal to beat Antrim ffs it's no different than jumping around the place after winning the joe mcdonagh cup jeez Christ simple as Eddie is a v v v bad loss to Laois hurling know disrespect to cheddar but we have. Regressed totally

running tipp close is getting bet by 10 points?

and no we havent "regressed totally" when at times during the league,we were missing up to 11 starters.

No county could sustain that level of injuries never mind a county with such a small playing base as Laois.

Don't rise to that clueless inarticulate idiot.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: SpeculativeEffort on July 14, 2021, 12:30:24 AM
County Board basically saying the hurlers will be bet on saturday by fixing 2020 games for following week. Be great if they could upset the apple cart.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 14, 2021, 08:24:18 AM
Eh? The first 2020 hurling final is 13th August, isn't it?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 14, 2021, 11:23:14 AM
This craic about supporting the weaker counties. Why wasn't Laois given home advantage for the game Saturday?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on July 16, 2021, 12:05:06 PM
Best of luck to Laois tomorrow. Hopefully they fight and tackle like animals and can make amends for the Wexford performance. Waterford won't need any incentive, they will be out for a big confidence win.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 16, 2021, 12:55:36 PM
Ben Conroy back? He'll hardly play tomorrow, but should be a boost coming up to Westmeath. Don't know how many years he has left in him.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 16, 2021, 02:40:02 PM
A similar performance as Clare last year will do rightly. How many of the Waterford injured players are back?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 16, 2021, 03:31:17 PM
Bookies giving Laois +14 points at 10/11. Can't see Laois being beaten by 14 points more than.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: AnGaelGearmanach on July 16, 2021, 05:02:27 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on July 16, 2021, 03:31:17 PM
Bookies giving Laois +14 points at 10/11. Can't see Laois being beaten by 14 points more than.

Do you have it backed?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 16, 2021, 05:45:15 PM
I do.

Can't see them being beaten by that amount.

I think the spread is generous but then again fools and their money.

Still if the same fight is in Laois as against Antrim they won't be losing by that score.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 17, 2021, 03:08:27 PM
Waterford scored a very lucky goal, Laois have come out in the second half and are battling like their lives depend on it. Purcell with a goal to get us within touching distance 3 points in it now. Keep it going lads!!!!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 17, 2021, 03:22:47 PM
Laois a point ahead at the 2nd half water break, and its deserved. They have hounded waterford constantly and a goal just before the water break has given them the edge.Whatever happens, fair play to them as it crazy hot day and they are giving every last drop for the cause.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 17, 2021, 03:43:28 PM
FT Waterford 3-23 Laois 2-21 - Waterford's second goal proved decisive as Laois just could not get back in front. Hats off to the lads, they gave it everything and think they only hit 9 or so wides. Waterford hit 20 wides but Laois hassled and harried them for the full 70. For a brief moment I thought it was going to be a huge scalp but it was not to be. Well played lads.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Silkyskillssunshinee on July 17, 2021, 03:44:46 PM
Serious effort from the Laois men this afternoon. Back to back strong performances against Antrim and Waterford. Big boost after a poor league campaign.

And with plenty of talent in the U-20 hurling set-up, there is definitely a bright future here. Laois Abu
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 17, 2021, 03:50:21 PM
Yes, well done Laois. Great display, but ultimately hard luck. Waterford slightly flattered w/ that late goal. Great to see lads playing with a bit of verve again!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: portlaoisekid on July 17, 2021, 09:47:53 PM
Today was a lot better and we absolutely competed to the end , now there's a world of a difference between competing and winning but today was progress. The Westmeath match is still the big one , win that and I trust this mgt and panel to be in a position to grow stronger next year .....

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: AnGaelGearmanach on July 19, 2021, 06:56:38 AM
Quote from: redsetanta on July 16, 2021, 05:45:15 PM
I do.

Can't see them being beaten by that amount.

I think the spread is generous but then again fools and their money.

Still if the same fight is in Laois as against Antrim they won't be losing by that score.

Done it in my accumulator however Armagh let me down.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on July 19, 2021, 10:11:11 AM
As well as the general improvement in hurling standard by the team (which is massive compared to the league and the Wexford game), the availability of quality players has been a serious boost. The quality of our listed bench on Saturday was great to see and was needed to keep us competitive. Ryan Mullaney and Lee Cleere are serious losses but we weathered them. James Keyes, Picky, Ciaran Comerford, James Ryan, Aaron Dunphy and Matthew Whelan were all named as subs. John Lennon and Eanna Lyons are back and then you have back up in Liam Senior, Liam Delaney, Paul Simms and I think Frank Flanagan was there too. Add a few U20s and a returning Mark Kavanagh, Ben Conroy, Diarmuid Conway and other injured players next year and competition for places will be savage. The core of the team are still quite young so hard to see too many retirements.

One other call out - we are not getting bullied physically. Waterford in the past have been far too big for us and threw us around like rag dolls. This did not happen on Saturday. Especially impressed with younger lads like Podge Delaney and Sean Downey who gave as good as they got. Westmeath match is massive. I see we are at home. Hopefully the weather will hold and we can get a nice socially-distanced crowd in.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 19, 2021, 11:10:26 AM
I think Eanna Lyons left the panel?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 19, 2021, 02:26:47 PM
I hope that performance shuts up some of the nay sayers and anti Cheddar brigade.

A little more cuteness from certain players at various times during the game could have got us over the line. The one thing that can be said though is that every player left everything out on the pitch in what was a bruising encounter.

There were times when one of our lads could have and maybe should have gone down and get themselves a free. A couple of times just a lack of composure gave the possession away.

Hopefully they get themselves back on their feet fro the game next weekend. Westmeath have some fine hurlers however if we are mentally right for the game we should have more than enough for them. Cheddar was at pains to let them know that after the game, they have to dust themselves down and redouble their focus.

AS someone stated above we have a decent panel there now if we keep the moving in an upward direction.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 19, 2021, 03:29:23 PM
It was certainly a great second half performance. It was such a shame that we started so badly - in the first half our touch and accuracy and speed looked miles off. If we'd brought the same levels of performance to the first half, we definitely could have won that game.

After 20 minutes, I was thinking that the bookies were going to be right with their 14 point spread. The second half though brought a totally different look to the game and really Waterford were very flattered in the end.

For me the real leaders were the ones who managed to perform to a decent level in the first half. Sean Downey has been consistently excellent, Podge Delaney is really a top class half back, Cha was disruptive all through and Scully's frees kept us in it. Paddy Purcell's second half performance was top drawer too.

I have to say I feel like it's a season wasted but at least there is a model now to build on for next year. Hopefully, we'll continue working with that model.

Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 21, 2021, 01:07:01 PM
Based on P Purcell's two championship games I would be surprised if he isn't nominated fro an All Star.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: town1980 on July 22, 2021, 12:19:02 AM
So can anyone tell me did we progress this year ??????
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Helix. on July 22, 2021, 09:14:56 AM
Quote from: town1980 on July 22, 2021, 12:19:02 AM
So can anyone tell me did we progress this year ??????
You'll get a better answer Saturday evening after Westmeath game.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 22, 2021, 10:57:11 AM
Quote from: town1980 on July 22, 2021, 12:19:02 AM
So can anyone tell me did we progress this year ??????

I would say we stayed at the same level.

Last year we lost all but one league game (we beat Carlow by a point). In the championship we got a hiding in Leinster by the Dubs and put it up to Clare in the qualifiers only losing by a point.

This year lost all games in the league but have a one to come to stay in the division. We lost got a hiding in Leinster from Wexford but put it right up to the Waterford (2020 AI finalists) in the qualifiers.

If you factor in the new management, the pandemic disruption and the litany of injuries we have had to deal with you could probably argue that they did in fact make progress as new players have been blooded and there is a healthy squad developing.

Anyway those are the facts, I guess it is up to everyone to make their own minds up.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: LaoisAbu20 on July 22, 2021, 11:26:52 AM
I think things have improved over the last two games and I feel the players deserve the credit not the management.

I know Cheddar has been a massive servant to Laois hurling over the years and has gave the county so much and we probably can't repay him for all his service and commitment. However, as someone, who has a sibling on the current team , I am truly heartbroken to see the lack of confidence that the lads have in themselves. The passion that some of these players have for hurling has been decimated. They have been forced to stick with the same game plan over and over again, no one speaks up and they've been told week in and week out that they are not expected to win because they have injured players. Things have improved with the win over Antrim and Waterford, but the players were the ones who came together and changed the game plan not the management. From what I aware of video analysis doesn't come into the picture after matches and trainings are lacklustre at the best of times. I think everyone is well aware of our list of injured players but we've got to make the most of what we have and we've got to try and pull it together.

I didn't want to write this, but I felt that something had to be said. I think that this Laois hurling team has a future ahead of them but the management needs to step up to the plate. Questions need to be asked, especially in regards to both the attacking and defensive setup. When Eddie Brennan was manager there was a passion and hunger in this time which is clearly absent now. They didn't win every game with Eddie,  but they did give teams a run for their money. Players used to work together and give the sliotar to the man in the best position, now its every man for himself. The team work rate is down and the moral is down as well. Sticking with the same setup and plan when it clearly isn't working is delusional and is unfair on players who give their time to a sport that they love. Look I don't have the solutions, but I don't want to see players who clearly love the game fall out of love with it. I think a few questions need to be asked as regards the plan going forward and perhaps a few questions need to be asked of the management as they clearly have been given a few concessions but I think a bit of scrutiny needs to be put in place.

Looking forward to a good performance on Saturday!
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: vetoldthe on July 22, 2021, 01:47:19 PM
A very interesting post, 
very surprised if true.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois man on July 22, 2021, 03:26:25 PM
Some players seem to get loads of game time even when there form is poor other players get little game time and no chance to impress. Think we will beat westmeath but CB has to look at the bigger picture.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 22, 2021, 03:42:05 PM
Laois man, of the players involved last Saturday, starting 15 + subs, who should have been in there instead?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Laois man on July 22, 2021, 09:23:58 PM
Is Aaron Dunphy not fit to start? Colm Stapleton got very little game time. Did our sub keeper get any game time all year?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 22, 2021, 11:29:34 PM
Personally I thought Aaron Dunphy did well the last day, but up to that hadn't done well at all. I can absolutely see why he wasn't starting.

I believe a couple of lads left the panel before the Waterford game. Probably for that reason.

You do know there's only 15 starting places?  Not everyone can start.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 23, 2021, 01:53:48 PM
I do hope the squad is not going to fall apart. There is a squad of genuinely good players and as we know injuries are sometimes going to happen. I could understand lads losing heart with the way things were going in the league but hopefully the management has learned lessons too and understand that "the gap" is not necessarily all that big. We are as physically strong as most teams and we have a lot of genuinely skilful players. After that, the key ingredients are a sensible game plan and the levels of motivation and self-belief in the group. It is the job of management to make this right. The last couple of games give hope that lessons have been learned so I hope the players don't give up on it yet.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 23, 2021, 02:14:25 PM
I was listening to the hurling GAA hour and Conal Keaney mentioned that there was talk of the players going to management to change things up and go more attacking after the Wexford result. I hadn't heard anything bout it but in fairness if management is prepared to sit down and discuss the issue with the players and they change the set up it has to be a good thing surely, no?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 23, 2021, 02:37:12 PM
Quote from: Laois man on July 22, 2021, 09:23:58 PM
Is Aaron Dunphy not fit to start? Colm Stapleton got very little game time. Did our sub keeper get any game time all year?

Has any county given their sub keeper game time this year??
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: clonadmad on July 23, 2021, 04:00:32 PM
Quote from: Joeythelips on July 23, 2021, 02:37:12 PM
Quote from: Laois man on July 22, 2021, 09:23:58 PM
Is Aaron Dunphy not fit to start? Colm Stapleton got very little game time. Did our sub keeper get any game time all year?

Has any county given their sub keeper game time this year??

Galway
Tipp
Kilkenny

Dublin?
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 23, 2021, 04:03:43 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on July 23, 2021, 02:14:25 PM
I was listening to the hurling GAA hour and Conal Keaney mentioned that there was talk of the players going to management to change things up and go more attacking after the Wexford result. I hadn't heard anything bout it but in fairness if management is prepared to sit down and discuss the issue with the players and they change the set up it has to be a good thing surely, no?

Yes it has to be a good thing. Hope the players stick with it now.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 23, 2021, 08:45:54 PM
Quote from: redsetanta on July 23, 2021, 02:14:25 PM
I was listening to the hurling GAA hour and Conal Keaney mentioned that there was talk of the players going to management to change things up and go more attacking after the Wexford result. I hadn't heard anything bout it but in fairness if management is prepared to sit down and discuss the issue with the players and they change the set up it has to be a good thing surely, no?

He probably just read it on here. Heh.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 24, 2021, 08:23:33 PM
The lads need to pull the finger out in the second half, Westmeath full value for their 6 point lead but the amount of wides laois have hit has been shocking. We are lucky Westmeath are down to 14 also which should give us the edge to get over the line but they really need to up it big time or its bye bye Div 1.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: portlaoisekid on July 24, 2021, 09:18:57 PM
Jeez I genuinely thought that was lost ,fair play to them for showing they are better than div 2, but unfortunately for a long time on the line and the pitch we didn't show that ..I really thought Westmeath had done a job on us..fair play to all
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 24, 2021, 09:29:49 PM
A good win against 14 men
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: LaoisAbu20 on July 24, 2021, 09:35:41 PM
We made hard work of that. Westmeath were the better team for the majority of the game. Fair play to the lads for seeing it through and getting the win.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 24, 2021, 09:47:14 PM
I actually felt sorry for Westmeath after that. Laois were not at the same pace as last couple weeks and should have paid the ultimate price for it. Some of our shooting in the first half was awful and almost cost us in the end. Westmeath's red card was silly and ultimately was the deciding factor between them teams.

Its harsh on Westmeath but Laois have maintained Div 1 hurling for another year. Hopefully we can get everyone fully fit next season and have a super competitive squad to have a right go at Div 1 and Leinster.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: burdizzo on July 24, 2021, 09:51:11 PM
Quote from: portlaoisekid on July 24, 2021, 09:18:57 PM
Jeez I genuinely thought that was lost ,fair play to them for showing they are better than div 2, but unfortunately for a long time on the line and the pitch we didn't show that ..I really thought Westmeath had done a job on us..fair play to all

Interesting to see Cheddar stand away from the players at the water breaks.

Yes, I thought Westmeath were better for most of the match. In fairness to Scully, he was immense tonight. Had the balls to hit those ones in Rowland's area, and all.

Only in the last quarter did we come to life. The likes of Ross, and Jack standing up when perhaps they'd been a bit 'off' up to that.

Still, maybe Cheddar was right - that we're on a level with Westmeath.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Joeythelips on July 24, 2021, 10:04:39 PM
Quote from: burdizzo on July 24, 2021, 09:51:11 PM

Interesting to see Cheddar stand away from the players at the water breaks.

Yes, I thought Westmeath were better for most of the match. In fairness to Scully, he was immense tonight. Had the balls to hit those ones in Rowland's area, and all.

Only in the last quarter did we come to life. The likes of Ross, and Jack standing up when perhaps they'd been a bit 'off' up to that.

Still, maybe Cheddar was right - that we're on a level with Westmeath.

Yeah Kelly's 2 points at the end were a massive scores. Still Westmeath have only themselves to blame with a missed penalty at the end and a needless sending off.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on July 24, 2021, 10:50:30 PM
Don't know how we won that. We were a distant second best for most of the match in every area of the field. Just goes to show that the likes of Laois, Antrim, Westmeath, Kerry and Carlow are all about the same level. I thought we played super for the last 10 minutes but it was the only spell where we looked better than Westmeath. PJ Scully really has turned into a proper inter county corner forward this year, and not just from frees. Cha is back to his old self too. The backs except Podge Delaney looked out of sorts. Jack Kelly is better in midfield and thankfully him and Roddy lifted their games when we needed them. Anyway, job done. Liam McCarthy and Division 1 hurling next year.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 25, 2021, 09:24:39 AM
Very disappointed with the display last night. Like most people here, it's hard to understand how we actually won the game when really it was only Enda Rowland, Cha, Roddy, PJ Scully and to a lesser extent Willie Dunphy that played at or near their potential. Hard to win games when two-thirds of your team is not showing up. To me, the whole thing looked like a bit of a shambles at times. The use of Ciaran McEvoy as the free man while Fiachra Fennell was asked to play essentially a corner back role was a bit nuts to me (and in fairness was eventually corrected). Generally Westmeath looked like a team that knew what it as trying to do and was motivated to do it. We seemed lethargic.

Anyway, the job is done for this year but I do hope we'll see the real potential of the team next year. The whole thing does need a bit of a rethink in my opinion.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 25, 2021, 09:29:27 AM
By the way, huge thanks to Matthew Whelan who has been a warrior for Laois for so long. He has always been a leader and kept going for Laois when it would have been much easier to quit. Deserves great credit for his service and I hope there will be ways to have that experience passed on.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 26, 2021, 02:19:28 PM
Most has been said about the game. We got through in the end and that's what matters.

Hopefully with the calendar and matches back in place next year we'll have 5 league games and another 5 games in the championship. We will need a strong panel and maybe we'll get a couple of wins and not be fighting relegation again. 
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: blueandwhite1 on July 26, 2021, 03:28:00 PM
We will probably be fighting relegation but sure if we are winning them, then what about it. Nice to be winning something! Of course I hope we can take a scalp or two but it is still a big ask to beat one of the top table teams.

The performance on Saturday shows how hard it is to keep it going every week. Except for the last 10 minutes we never looked like the team that played against Antrim or Waterford. In fact, we looked very much like the team that got hammered by Wexford. All that being said, I remember many times over the years where we lost games we should have won so nice to win one we might have lost!! Westmeath have some super hurlers for sure and plenty of physicality too.

Matthew Whelan is a legend. He gave some service over the years always coming back for more through hardship and good days. Hard to think of too many matches where he was not involved. I remember thinking his best days were behind him before Eddie Brennan took over but he seemed to get better and better instead of fading away. There should be some sort of 'medal of honour' for servants like Matthew and Ross Munnelly.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: redsetanta on July 26, 2021, 04:01:45 PM
I like the medal of honour idea whatever way it was packaged and presented. Services to Laois GAA, honourary member, lifetime achievement etc. These lads should definitely never have to pay into O'Moore Park for as long as they want to go to Laois games.

There are others but not too many who have been involved for 15 years or more.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Giovanni on July 26, 2021, 08:09:52 PM
Great idea.

I remember looking at Pat Critchley paying into a match a couple of years ago and thinking about the various hangers on inside that hadn't paid a penny for years.  I'm more than certain that these lads would never look for special treatment but surely a token like this is the least that could be done.
Title: Re: Laois Senior Hurlers 2021
Post by: Ogie on August 28, 2021, 12:11:37 AM
Cheddar to be re appointed smoothly as expected