Duffy and Gaffey in Westmeath team

David Duffy and John Gaffey has been named in the Westmeath team to play Laois in Sunday's Allianz League Division 2 tie at Cusack Park (throw-in 2.30pm).

They are the only two changes to the team that drew with Galway last weekend, with Gaffey slotting in at centre-back for his Garrycastle club-mate Doron Harte. He did so for the second half of the 1-10 to 0-13 draw with the Tribesmen.

Duffy has also been rewarded for playing his part in the Lakesiders' second half revival in Tuam, earning a place in midfield alongside youngster John Heslin who will play for the Westmeath Under-21s against Wexford tonight.

Heslin kicked the levelling point against Galway. His midfield partner that day, Denis Corroon, scored a vital 54th minute goal and for the visit of Laois he will be positioned at top of the right in an attack still missing former All-Star Dessie Dolan, with Ronan Foley dropping to the bench.

Pat Flanagan's side currently hold a one-point lead at the top of Division 2 and a third win of the campaign would keep them on course for promotion to the top flight.

WESTMEATH (NFL v Laois): Gary Connaughton; Mark McCallon, Kieran Gavin (capt), Kevin Maguire; Micheál Curley, John Gaffey, James Dolan; David Duffy, John Heslin; Ger Egan, Callum McCormack, Kieran Martin; Denis Corroon, Ciaran Curley, Denis Glennon.