Familiar foes meet again as St Joseph’s and Courtwood chase final spot

THERE is little separating St Joseph’s and Courtwood, and the latest chapter in their growing rivalry promises to be another compelling contest as both clubs bid for a place in the 2026 Senior Football Championship final.

Courtwood have firmly established themselves among the county’s leading sides in recent years. Last season they reached their first ever senior final and came within touching distance of glory before eventually losing to Portarlington after a replay.

They have maintained that upward trajectory in 2026 and already have silverware secured. In July, they captured a first Division 1 league title by defeating today’s opponents, 2-12 to 2-10 in the decider.

Their championship campaign has been equally impressive. Victories over neighbours O’Dempsey’s and Ballyroan Abbey saw them advance directly to the quarter-finals, with the emphatic 5-16 to 0-15 win over Ballyroan-Abbey standing out as one of the most dominant displays of the group stages. After a lengthy break, they returned to edge past Stradbally and secure another semi-final berth.

What makes Courtwood’s progress all the more noteworthy is the injury disruption they have endured throughout the season.

St Joseph’s, meanwhile, remain one of the most consistent forces in Laois football. The Kellyville men are aiming to return to the senior final for the first time since lifting the title in 2023 and have again shown their ability to deliver in crucial moments.

They opened their campaign with victory over Crettyard before overcoming Graiguecullen by the narrowest of margins, 1-13 to 1-12, to secure a quarter-final place.

Their last-eight clash with Ballyroan Abbey provided a stern examination. Having seen a promising first-half lead disappear, St Joseph’s responded brilliantly, scoring 1-3 deep into injury time to claim a dramatic 2-16 to 1-13 victory.

Recent meetings highlight just how evenly matched these sides are. St Joseph’s prevailed after extra time in the 2024 league final, while Courtwood have won the last two significant encounters, including last year’s league semi-final and this season’s Division 1 final.

All the evidence points towards another tight and fiercely contested battle. With a place in the county final at stake, neither side will need any additional motivation, and a memorable semi-final could well be in store at Laois Hire O’Moore Park (2pm).