Laois in great shape for Dubs tie

Laois head to Croke Park next weekend for their clash with Dublin full of confidence and with a real pep in their step – I was going to say “momentum” – but it has now officially become the most overused word in the GAA lexicon during the qualifiers.

Justin McNulty’s charges are on the back of four straight wins and they will feel they have little to lose. They are playing well and have a nice balance to their side.

Plus, they are in great shape, very well conditioned all over the field. They will be written off in most quarters and the lack of genuine and sustained intensity, work-rate and ruthlessness by Dublin in their victories over Wexford and Meath gives Laois a chink of light.