This victory offers a timely boost for ladies football in the county
Aine Conroy and Orlaith McEvoy with the trophy Photo: Paul Dargan
Laois's Leinster U/16 ‘B’ final triumph over Dublin in TEG Cusack Park was a performance that showcased not only their talent, but their composure and resilience, qualities that ultimately defined their championship success.
In contrast to the senior side’s struggles, this victory offers a timely boost for football in the county, highlighting a promising group of players capable of delivering when it matters most.
From the outset, Laois set the tone with a blistering start that left Dublin on the back foot. Racing into an early lead and restricting Dublin to their first scoring attempt after 14 minutes demonstrated both attacking intent and defensive discipline. Mia Delaney’s influence was central to this dominance; finishing with 10 points and earning Player of the Match, she provided a reliable scoring outlet and dictated much of Laois’ forward play. Her accuracy from frees and composure in open play gave Laois a platform that Dublin initially struggled to deal with.
However, what makes this victory particularly noteworthy is not just the strong start, but how Laois responded when the momentum inevitably shifted. After building a six-point lead, they allowed Dublin back into the contest before half-time, with Aoibhin Costello’s goal proving a significant turning point. Suddenly, a game that had looked one-sided was finely balanced, and Laois faced a psychological test that younger teams do not always pass.
That challenge intensified in the second half. Dublin’s second goal, courtesy of Sarah McGill, brought the sides level with 42 minutes played, and at that stage, the momentum appeared to be with the capital side. This was a defining moment in the game, and, arguably, in Laois’ campaign. Rather than retreat or panic, Laois responded with authority.
Their finish was emphatic. Outscoring Dublin by 1-7 to no score in the closing stages, Laois demonstrated a level of fitness, belief, and game management that speaks volumes about their preparation and mentality. Delaney once again led the charge, but she was far from alone. Kate Dowling’s well-taken goal, capitalising on Chelsey Dooley’s delivery, was a crucial score that re-established control, while contributions from Laura Malone and others ensured the pressure never relented.
Looking ahead, this victory should serve as a foundation rather than a final destination. Winning a Leinster title is a significant achievement, but the manner of this win, combining attacking flair with resilience under pressure, suggests this group has the potential to progress even further. Continued development will be key, particularly in maintaining consistency across both halves and limiting the lapses that allowed Dublin back into the contest.
For Laois football as a whole, this success is a reminder of the strength coming through at underage level. If nurtured correctly, players like Delaney, Dowling, and their teammates could form the backbone of future senior success. For now, though, they can enjoy a well-earned provincial title, one secured not just by talent, but by character when it mattered most.
