Dominant Laois overcome Down, Meath hold on for win over Kildare

In Division 2B, last year’s Nickey Rackard Cup final win for Wicklow over Donegal felt like a distant memory, as Donegal put the Garden County to the sword in Aughrim.

HURLING WRAP: Laois overcame Down after a dominant display. Pic: ©INPHO/Tom Maher

Down came close to picking up a shock win to kick off this year’s Allianz Hurling League, but ultimately it was Laois who picked up victory at Laois Hire O’Moore Park, thanks to a dominant finish.

Throughout the first half, the game progressed along predicted lines, with Down working hard and getting some good scores, but just not quite keeping pace. Points from Maher, Willie Dunphy and league debutant Jer Quinlan kept Laois in the lead, with Quinlan also putting name on an excellent goal. Pearse Og McCrickard and Mark Fisher responded for the Mourne men, who still trailed by 1-12 to 0-8 at the break.