Laois in a stronger place as they prepare to lock horns with Kildare

These neighbouring rivals should provide a close-fought contest although recent experience has been that one or the other wins well when they meet during the summer. In the league encounter this spring Kildare surprised Laois in Portlaoise by scoring a late goal to win the match.

That positive precedent is about the only encouragement though, as since then Kildare have been relegated to Division Three whereas Laois have commenced their championship with a strong showing albeit against an admittedly limited Carlow side.

Centrefield combinations

Manager Tomás Ó Flatharta was none the less pleased afterwards with the work rate and tackling of his forwards, which showed a high level of enthusiasm and energy.

Injuries have left Kildare visibly understrength and forced to shuffle the deck.

They can expect to struggle against one of the championship’s best centrefield combinations, Brendan Quigley and John O’Loughlin and will be under pressure from a dangerous attack in which Donal Kingston has been having a great year.

Kildare have some experience but the year to date has been demoralising and Laois were the team that ran champions Dublin closest in Leinster last year. On top of that come Jason Ryan’s injury problems.

Although this is expected to be competitive Laois have momentum and a more settled team.