St Joseph’s go into this game as favourites

ON paper, this looks like one of the more straightforward first-round ties in the 2026 SFC. St Joseph's enter the championship as an established senior force and one of the teams capable of challenging for a semi-final place, while Crettyard's primary objective is likely to be securing their senior status in a season where three teams will be relegated.

However, championship football in Laois rarely follows the script.

St Joseph's have been operating at a higher level than Crettyard and possess greater championship experience. Reaching the quarter-final last year and finishing runners-up in this year’s ACFL Division 1, highlights their status among the county's stronger teams.

Also, they have already defeated Crettyard in the league this year If Joseph's can dominate midfield and get quality ball into their forwards, they should create enough scoring opportunities to progress comfortably.

Crettyard are not arriving as no-hopers. They won the ACFL Division 3 final, and also recorded impressive wins over Ballylinan and Park/Ratheniska during the league campaign. [laoisgaa.ie] One encouraging aspect for Crettyard is their scoring power bolstered great by the return of Evan O’Carroll who missed most of last year with injury. He has returned with a bang putting in some very impressive performances for the county.

The game may come down to whether Crettyard can keep the contest close entering the final quarter. If Joseph's establish an early lead, their experience should allow them to control possession and manage the game. If Crettyard remain within a score or two, the pressure could begin to shift towards the favourites.