A performance that highlighted resilience, belief, and value of impact from bench

Laois's victory over Down in Newry felt like more than just two points on the table, it was a performance that highlighted resilience, belief, and the value of impact from the bench. In a game where momentum swung wildly, Laois showed a level of composure and fighting spirit that will give them real encouragement heading into the championship.

Laois had done much of the hard work in the first half, building a solid four-point lead and controlling the tempo. Yet, as has happened at times during the league campaign, they lost their grip after the restart. Down’s blistering start to the second half, followed by a dominant spell that saw them go six points clear, would have been enough to finish off many teams.

What stood out, however, was Laois’s refusal to panic. Instead of forcing low-percentage shots or abandoning their structure, they gradually worked their way back into the contest. That patience proved crucial, and when the turning point came, they were ready to take full advantage.

Paul Kingston’s contribution will rightly grab the headlines. Scoring 2-3 off the bench is a remarkable return, but it was the timing and nature of his scores that really mattered. His first goal reignited belief, while his second, struck from a tight angle, completely shifted the momentum. It’s the kind of impact every team hopes for from their substitutes, and it underlined the importance of squad depth at this level.

There were other positives too. Evan O’Carroll’s scoring consistency throughout kept Laois within touching distance when Down were on top, while the team’s pressing on kickouts caused problems and created opportunities. Defensively, although they were opened up during Down’s purple patch, they tightened things up when it mattered most.

Finishing the league with three wins, three losses, and a draw suggests a side still finding consistency, but performances like this hint at real potential. With a three-week break before their Leinster Championship clash with Offaly, they now have both momentum and belief, two things that can make a significant difference when knockout football begins.