Kieran Martin: Tom Cribbin’s angry words brought best out of Westmeath

A cool head from Kieran Martin produced the goal that sent Westmeath into Sunday’s Leinster semi-final against Meath, but it could be a huge moment in the managerial career of Tom Cribbin.

Cribbin’s passionate lashing of some Westmeath squad members after their relegation to Division 3 earlier this year certainly appears to have had the desired effect, and with two championship wins to their name since, who can argue with his tactics?

And Martin (25) admitted a rollicking was required to raise expectations in the squad, but with their confidence soaring again, he’s eyeing a first Leinster final appearance since 2004.