Laois can learn from Tyrone’s reaction to the pain of 2024 loss

CROKE Park has been the scene of so many historic and enjoyable days for Laois in recent years, and while Sunday didn’t deliver silverware, it showed again just how much pride this group of girls continues to inspire.

Backed by a vocal Laois support that turned up in huge numbers, Stephen Duff’s side came into this All-Ireland Intermediate final full of belief. And for long stretches, they gave the Laois faithful plenty to cheer. Having won the Mary Quinn Cup in 2022, this was their second All-Ireland final appearance in just four seasons, a remarkable achievement in itself. It was a sign that Laois football is back competing where it belongs.

But while Laois were well in the contest for over 50 minutes, and even looked to have edged the momentum with seven minutes remaining, Tyrone were a team on a mission. Driven by the pain of last year’s final defeat, the Ulster side found another gear late on, capitalising ruthlessly on the extra space created by Ciara Crowley’s yellow card. It proved to be the game’s turning point.

Until then, Laois had matched Tyrone score for score. Mo Nerney, playing through a hamstring injury, was heroic, finishing with five second-half points. Emma Lawlor was lively throughout, and Eimear Barry produced a string of stunning saves, including a first-half penalty stop that kept Laois within touching distance.

Even as Tyrone dominated kick-outs and carried a constant goal threat, Laois never panicked. They weathered storms. They fought for every inch.

But ultimately, experience and hurt counted for something. Tyrone had learned from the disappointment of 2024. Their ability to manage the final quarter, especially once they went a player up, showed a maturity that Laois will undoubtedly grow into. The late goal from Katie Rose Muldoon felt like a hammer blow, and from there, the result was beyond doubt.

Still, there is so much to admire in how Laois approached this season. This is a side packed with talent and heart, with players like Shifra Havill, Jane Moore, Fiona Dooley and Eva Galvin all making valuable contributions on the biggest day of the year.

What’s more, this is a young team that has already proven it can bounce back. They’ve done it before, and they’ll be determined to do it again.

There will be deep disappointment in the camp this week. That’s natural. But as manager Stephen Duff said himself, the bigger picture is that Laois are moving in the right direction. The challenge now is to do what Tyrone have done, turn a final defeat into fuel for future success.

They’ve shown they belong on this stage. Now it’s about returning to it.