Signs of progress despite defeat as O'Leary begins rebuilding job
Ciara Crowley (Laois) and Leah Kelly (Clare) compete for this ball on Sunday Photo: Denis Byrne
RESULTS rarely tell the full story, and while Laois came up short against Clare in Peter O'Leary's first game in charge, there were enough encouraging signs to suggest that brighter days may lie ahead.
After a difficult Leinster Championship campaign in which Laois were far too easy to open up defensively, the most obvious positive was the increased solidity at the back. Clare were made work for their scores and, crucially, Laois avoided the defensive collapses that saw goals conceded far too freely in recent outings.
The structure looked more organised, the tackling more disciplined and there was a greater determination to protect the danger area. For a team that has shipped heavy scores this year, that represents a significant first step.
There was also plenty to admire in Laois' attitude. Heads never dropped, even when Clare threatened to pull away, and the players continued to battle for every ball until the final whistle.
That fighting spirit is something supporters have been craving and it reflects positively on the early work being done by the new management team.
Of course, nobody will be getting carried away. One improved performance does not erase the issues that have developed over the course of the season.
Laois still need to become more clinical in possession, create and convert more scoring opportunities, and find the consistency required to compete with stronger opposition over 60 minutes.
But every rebuilding process starts somewhere. Peter O'Leary inherited a squad low on confidence and searching for direction. While defeat is never the objective, this performance offered evidence that foundations are being laid.
The scoreboard may have favoured Clare, but Laois supporters will leave this game with more optimism than they have felt in recent weeks.
There is still a long road ahead, but if the defensive resilience and battling qualities shown here can be built upon, this could prove to be a valuable first step in turning the season around.
