Courtwood’s recent experience should be enough to see them past the neighbours
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ONE of the standout ties from the opening round draw, pitting last year's runners-up against neighbours O'Dempsey's, a side capable of causing an upset.
Courtwood come into the championship carrying the tag of genuine contenders. After reaching their first ever county final last year, they have established themselves among the top clubs in Laois and will view anything less than another deep championship run as a disappointment.
O'Dempsey's, meanwhile, enter with less expectation but plenty of ambition. They remain one of the county's proud football clubs and have enough quality in their ranks to trouble any team.
Courtwood have spent the last number of seasons competing at the business end of the championship and have developed the mentality that comes with winning big games. Their run to last year's final demonstrated a side that is physically strong, defensively organised and capable of grinding out results.
O'Dempsey's will believe they have little to lose. They have enough tradition and championship experience to know that opening-round matches often produce surprises. They fact that they made it to the Division 2 final this year will give them confidence.
If Courtwood dictate the tempo, they should have enough quality to pull away. If O'Dempsey's can make it scrappy and emotional, the gap between the teams narrows considerably.
Expect a hard-hitting championship encounter with neither team wanting to give away momentum early in the championship.
Courtwood should have the greater depth and a stronger defensive platform, while O'Dempsey's will rely on work rate, discipline and taking any goal chances that come their way.
