Laois 1s kicked off their league campaign vs Suttonians in Loreto Kilkenny on Saturday under the leadership of captain Aisling Byrne and vice captain Ruth Maxwell.

Laois 1s Team Captain 2023-2024 Aisling Byrne and Vice-Captain Ruth Maxwell

Four inter players stepped up to the mark for the senior team today (Ellen, Abigail, Faye and Maeve). Laois took a few minutes to warm up into the game and Suttonians didn't hesitate to press their advantage with a couple of shots on goal. Laois' defence quickly upped their game however and began to control the play better. After the 1st quarter and the introduction of some inter players, Laois attacked Suttonians with great play from Laragh Wilkinson, Amy Moynan, Abigail and Maeve Rafter and were unlucky not to score. Laois were unlucky not to score from a short corner before half time.

Strong defensive play by Susan Fingleton and Laragh Wilkinson

Laois continued to dominate at times in the 2nd half and Esme Van De Bergh carried the ball from the halfway line, dodging players left and right and was just denied a goal on the goal line. Laois' hard work finally paid off when Amy Moynan found the backboard before the end of the third quarter.

Maeve Rafter making a break up the right hand side of the pitch

Laois did their best to keep Suttonians out but unfortunately they got by the defence just before the end of the game in the last few minutes of the game. Laois had another few chances to put them ahead but to no avail. A good, challenging match with some nice play from both sides.

Laois 1s Team are back in action next Saturday against Railway Union at 1.30 pm in Loreto college, Kilkenny.