Laois’s response was built on resilience and patience

LAOIS showed tremendous character and composure to overcome Kerry in a thrilling Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie Championship semi-final at Glenisk O’Connor Park, Tullamore. In a contest that ebbed and flowed throughout, Kerry looked to have taken control early on, but Laois delivered an outstanding second-half performance to turn the game around and secure their place in the decider.

Kerry started with real purpose and made their early pressure count, showing sharpness in attack and taking advantage of their opportunities. Their movement and work rate caused problems for the Laois defence, while their ability to punish openings gave them a strong platform. Laois, however, refused to be unsettled and gradually settled into the contest after a difficult opening period.

The Leinster side’s response was built on resilience and patience. While they were not at their fluid best in the early stages, they remained disciplined and continued to work hard, knowing their opportunity would come. That belief was rewarded as they grew stronger as the game progressed, with their forwards becoming increasingly influential and their ability to win frees and apply pressure proving crucial.

The second half belonged to Laois. They returned from the interval with renewed energy and a greater intensity, taking the game to Kerry and forcing the momentum firmly in their favour. Aimee Collier was outstanding from placed balls, displaying remarkable composure under pressure and providing a steady source of scores when her team needed them most. Her accuracy and confidence from frees were a major factor in Laois gaining control of the contest.

Beyond the individual performances, Laois’ greatest strength was their collective effort. They defended with determination, battled hard around the middle third, and showed excellent decision-making when opportunities presented themselves. Their work rate off the ball was a feature of their display, with players supporting each other and refusing to allow Kerry back into the game.

Kerry deserve great credit for their contribution and for the quality they brought to the semi-final. They tested Laois throughout and showed why they had reached this stage of the competition. However, they were ultimately unable to match Laois’ intensity and persistence during the crucial periods of the second half.

This achievement is all the more impressive given the journey Laois have travelled. Having won the Premier Junior Championship last year, this is their first season competing at Intermediate level following promotion, and they have immediately made their mark by reaching the Glen Dimplex Intermediate final. Their rise has been built on belief, hard work and a refusal to be overawed by the step up in grade.

The final stages belonged to Laois, who finished strongly and produced the decisive moment when Grainne Delaney’s excellent vision created the opening for Eimear Hassett to find the net. It was a fitting reward for a side that had shown great belief and determination.

This was a victory built on character, resilience and teamwork. Laois will now head into the All-Ireland final full of confidence after producing a performance that demonstrated their ability to handle pressure and deliver when it mattered most. Their remarkable journey from Premier Junior champions to Intermediate finalists in the space of a year is a testament to the progress being made within Laois camogie.