Laois look like a completely different side

Just twelve months on from their disappointing defeat to Wicklow in the 2025 championship, Laois looked like a completely different side in O’Moore Park. Last year, Wicklow dictated the pace and punished Laois on the scoreboard in a 0-21 to 0-16 victory that exposed a lack of cutting edge and energy from the home side. This time around, however, the roles were reversed as Laois produced one of their most complete displays in recent seasons to open their Tailteann Cup campaign with a deserved seven-point win.

More than anything, this was a performance that showed growth and belief within the Laois squad. There was a sharpness and confidence to their play that had been missing at stages throughout the league campaign. They looked aggressive in attack, energetic around the middle third and far more willing to play with speed and ambition. Even when opportunities were missed, Laois continued to play on the front foot rather than retreat into themselves, which was an encouraging sign for a side looking to build momentum in this competition.

One of the biggest positives for Laois was the spread of quality across the pitch. Evan O’Carroll’s influence in attack was obvious, but Matthew Byron’s accuracy from placed balls proved equally important in maintaining control of the game and punishing Wicklow indiscipline. At the other end, Wicklow goalkeeper Mark Jackson kept his side alive for long spells with a series of impressive saves and also showed his quality from dead balls with a number of excellent two-point frees. Byron also contributed with two crucial saves of his own, meaning both goalkeepers had a significant impact on the overall contest.

The balance across the Laois team was also notable. Their forwards looked dangerous throughout, but the work being done further back the field was equally important. Laois hunted turnovers, tracked runners and showed far greater intensity without the ball. The defensive structure looked more organised and there was a collective work ethic that made life difficult for Wicklow for long periods of the game. Those are often the traits that separate teams in the Tailteann Cup, where momentum and confidence can quickly carry sides deep into the competition.

There was also a sense that Laois were playing with freedom. Too often over the last year they appeared cautious and reactive, but this display carried far more intent. The players looked comfortable taking risks, driving at defenders and backing themselves in one-on-one situations. That confidence spread through the team and lifted the atmosphere around O’Moore Park as the game went on.

Of course, tougher tests will come, and Laois will know there are still areas to improve, particularly when it comes to taking goal chances. Against stronger opposition, missed opportunities can quickly become costly. But there was far more to admire than criticise from this performance. It was controlled without being cautious and energetic without becoming reckless.

Most importantly, it felt like a team moving in the right direction. A strong opening-round win will naturally bring optimism, but it was the manner of the display that stood out most. If Laois can bring the same energy, intensity and attacking mindset into the coming weeks, they will feel capable of challenging anyone left in the Tailteann Cup.