Saturday afternoon the Laois 2s side took on Portrane in a top of the league clash in Kilkenny College. It was an eagerly anticipated fixture as both teams had been unbeaten so far this season and there were plenty of nerves prior to the match. Laois were lucky to score after 10 minutes after a pass from Yvonne Hargroves to Gloria Lewis at the top of the circle. The Portrane midfielders were very strong and fit and there were lots of tired bodies on the pitch in the second half of the game, but the home side did not give up even after Portrane scored in the third quarter to bring the sides level.

In the last quarter, Averil Atkinson took a quick free from the halfway line to Evana Cassidy outside the circle who weaved her way around the Portrane defence to put Laois ahead again. The Laois defence were under unbelievable pressure in the last quarter and had to defend 5 short corners in a row at one stage. Jayne Telford stopped a ball on the line and Aisling Gormley had to deflect an aerial shot at goal. There were some amazing saves from goalkeeper Caroline Coburn to keep Portrane out. Laois were very glad to hear the final whistle blow.

It was a super team effort from each member of the Laois 2s panel. Everyone played their hearts out and left everything on the pitch. In a game where we got no short and only 2 long corners, it was a great testament to our forwards to be able to convert with the little possession we had.

A few injury concerns with Gloria Lewis, Jayne Telford and Charlotte Nagle who hopefully will have recovered for our next away match versus Rathgar in 2 weeks. A big thank you to everyone who came to support us and to Valerie and Eleanor for providing tea afterwards.