Ollie Hally’s Laois U-20 hurlers are back in action this evening as they aim to take a place in the Leinster quarter final.
Navan is the destination for a clash with Antrim and Laois are the bookies favourites.
But if the events of seven days are anything to go by, this group of players are anything but predictable.
Laois were 15 points ahead of Westmeath at the start of the second half but threw it all away and needed a last gasp point to force extra time.
When the game went there, they conceded an early goal and looked in real trouble again only to stage a remarkable comeback and win the game.
James Duggan top scored with 3-5 while Mossy Keyes showed nerves of steel at crucial times as Laois advanced by six points in the end.
In a crazy game, there were a number of standout performances.
Danny Brennan and Ciaran Burke were rock solid in defence while the aforementioned Keyes and Thep Fitzpatrick scored heavily from midfield.
Gearoid Lynch and Cathal Murphy were powerful on the wings while Tadhg Cuddy also scored some very important points.
Duggan was electric in the full forward line and scored one of the most memorable points you’re ever likely to see.
While Ciaran Byrne and Mark Hennessy looked very dangerous alongside Duggan.
Speaking on the Talking Sport Podcast this week, manager Hally was hopeful that Camross’ Dan Delaney may be capable of playing in today’s game following an ankle injury.
However, he was less positive about the chances of captain Fionan Mahoney who is struggling with a hamstring injury sustained in a challenge match against Offaly.
Antrim reached this stage after a commanding 3-17 to 1-13 win over Down last week.
Rian McMullan top scored with 1-6 while Daire Murphy knocked over five frees so Laois will have to be wary of their threat.
Should Laois advance, they will play either Kilkenny or Offaly in the quarter finals next week.
LAOIS: Lorcan Fitzpatrick; Ian Shanahan, Allan Connolly, Danny Brennan; Padraig Brennan, Ciaran Burke, Niall Coss; Thep Fitzpatrick, Tomas Keyes; James Duggan, Tadhg Cuddy, Gearoid Lynch; Ciaran Byrne, Mark Hennessy, Cathal Murphy
Subs: Sean Fitzpatrick, Bryan Bredin, Eamon Fitzpatrick, Lawson Obular, Rian Edwards, Dan Delaney, Conor Walsh, Padraig Rafter, Eddie Critchley
SEE ALSO – Incredible drama as Laois U-20 hurlers score six point extra time win over Westmeath
