Leinster Senior Championship 2026

[JollyGreenGiant]

Removing the imbalance in funding is really starting to bite Dublin now.

One thing is not linked to the other.

The problem is success on the pitch and punters going to games didn't translate into an increase in kids playing the game. That investment was to stand still versus the competition. The only lasting legacy was Cuala, who are an outstanding success especially in hirling, but eyewateringly expensive to set up.

Dublin happening to have a once in a generation quality senior team just happened to coincide with that funding.

And what is often forgotten is that the basis for Dublin's early success included two club titles for Dublin Clubs (Vincents in '08 and Crokes in '09), and a Junior All Ireland Title in 2008. Dublin also won an Under 20 title in 2010. Dublin had been knocking on the door between 2005-2007 and were one of the few sides (apart from Tyrone - who had their number) who could take on Kerry. Integrating a lot of those players, moving on from a number of longstanding nearly-men, and looking to other sources of footballers was critical.

The 'juggernaut' was only as robust as was the players that comprised it. And as they each retired or stepped away it becomes clearer that Dublin enjoyed a golden generation, which also drew from players across the grades and ages. The Dublin Senior Team have won two All Ireland Titles this decade, and the 2023 iteration was a particularly special effort.

[thejuice]

I think we'll have too much for Westmeath tomorrow but they'll give us something to think about for sure. Our full back line has been vulnerable and we gave up criminal amounts of space to Sherlock in the league final which we can't do again. We had the second worst record for conceding in the league if I'm not mistaken. Thankfully this are much better attacking wise and I think we have too much for Westmeath tomorrow handle up front and threats coming off the bench.

Laois have a decent chance of upsetting Kildare. While Kildare has plenty of potential they haven't shown much of it so far this year. Laois have had some positive performances though they're coming from a lower level than Kildare so it could be a close one.

Dublin should have too much for Wicklow but certainly The Garden should give it everything and who knows what will happen with Brennan not there, if they get rattled it might get sticky for a while at least down in Aughrim. That said Dublin should have the talent and experience to get through it.

Louth and Wexford will have a similar feel to Meath and Westmeath. Wexford will cause them trouble for periods but Louth will have too much firepower upfront for Wexford to handle.

Interesting weekend of football in Leinster for the first time in a long while. It's a shame none of it is televised.

[JollyGreenGiant]

Brennan ban upheld. Dean Rock in the vest for the game today.

I'm not sure I have ever gone into a season feeling more defeatist about Dublin's chances of winning Leinster.

[moonster]

Routine wins for Kildare, Meath and Laois. Wicklow could give the dubs rattle.

We are waiting for Meath to bate Louth in Leinster final.

[Dunneroyal]

Louth to just get past Wexford.
Dublin to put down a marker
Kildare Laois could go either way
Meath Westmeath, Westmeath to keep it tight may even be ahead at HT. Meath to pull away in last 20 when empty bench.

[Cunny Funt]

Teams that played last weekend to struggle against their rested opponents is what I'm expecting today.

[weareros]

Pity Westmeath/Meath not broadcast. Think it will be good game. Edit: delayed 10 mins due to traffic congestion. Game on.

[Blowitupref]

After 27 minutes Westmeath 1-6 Meath 0-6

2nd goal for Wesmeath on 30 mins 2-6 to 0-8

[weareros]

Another goal for Westmeath.

2-6 to 9 after 30 mins.

2-9 to 9 at half time

[SouthOfThe Bann]

Yes very poor form that the Meath Derby not broadcast.

Surely one Leinster games deserves a GAA plus slot.

[Blowitupref]

Westmeath 2-11 Meath 0-09.  A two pointer the opening score of the 2nd half

[Captain Obvious]

The Meath poster that writes up essays on here will have to publish an novel after this game.

[Blowitupref]

Westmeath lead by 7 with 18 minutes to play.  Sub bench options and fitness should be telling now.

A 3rd goal for Westmeath sub impact Rob Forde, 3-16 to 0-15

[weareros]

Another goal - Westmeath!

[SouthOfThe Bann]

Whats that noise?

Is it the Meath bandwagon grinding to a halt?