At least one Laois man will be on top of the Hogan Stand steps today
Martin Byrne Photo: ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo
TODAY is a big day for Laois hurlers and their loyal followers with the hurlers making a fourth appearance in Joe McDonagh Cup finals.
Back in 2019 they overcame Westmeath in the final on a score of 3-26 to 1-21 when the captain was Rathdowney/Errill man Paddy Purcell and Eddie Brennan was manager.
In 2024 they faced the Faithful County and suffered a narrow defeat Twelve months ago, Kildare were surprise finalists, however, long before the final whistle, it was evident the trophy would not pass Naas on its way home.
This year under Tom Fitzgerald, the O’Moore men will make a bold bid for a second title. The campaign got off to a disappointing start on a Saturday evening in April in Netwatch Dr Cullen Park. Since that disappointing game Laois have shown great improvement, most important perhaps was their impressive performance against title favourites Antrim.
After that it was plain sailing and with Carlow winning all their games in the early stages it was predicted the final would be a battle of Barrowside neighbours. Incidentally, Carlow are seeking their third crown, winning the first final at the expense of Westmeath in 2018 and five years ago after extra time they swept aside Offaly 2-29 to 1-31.
Win lose or draw Laois man Martin Byrne will make his Croke Park debut in hurling. Recently chosen as Provincial Chairman, the Ballylinan native was in headquarters to present the Delaney Cup to the Westmeath captain after the excitement of the senior final. Since that he has presented the Under-20 football and hurling trophies. And more excitement on home ground when he presented the Kildare minor football captain with silverware at Laois Hire O’Moore Park.
On Saturday, as well as the Joe McDonagh Cup, Byrne will present the Bob O’Keefe cup to either the Galway or Dublin captain.
The presentation of the Joe McDonagh cup to the winner is usually the task the President, but maybe he will decide to chose the Leinster Chairman, Martin who is a Laois man and comes only a stones throw from the Carlow border.
Incidentally Martin is only the fourth Laois man to be elected to the present office, first was Bob O’Keeffe, then the late Jack ‘Grinder’ Conroy, third was future President Liam O’Neill.
