The Daily Star Ireland
Kildare completed a dramatic turnaround in the 2025 Joe McDonagh Cup campaign by defeating Laois in the final at Croke Park. Having opened their run in the competition with a heavy loss to Kerry — their ninth consecutive defeat at this level — Kildare rebounded to win five straight matches and lift the trophy in impressive fashion.
The match was level at halftime, a result that somewhat flattered Kildare given Laois’s missed opportunities in the opening period. However, the Leinster side produced a dominant second-half display, featuring key goals from Jack Sheridan and substitute Jack Travers, to secure a convincing victory. David Qualter contributed significantly throughout, tallying 13 points, many from placed balls.
Missed Chances Cost Laois as Kildare Rises
Kildare entered the final looking to return to the Leinster senior hurling championship for the first time since 2004, and they showed early composure despite the high stakes. A strong defensive display, led by centre-back Cian Boran, complemented their efficiency in front of goal. Points from play by Sheridan, Qualter, and James Burke helped them to a 0-04 to 0-02 advantage early on.
Laois, meanwhile, struggled to convert their chances in the first half. They registered 11 wides, dropped five attempts short, and saw a goalbound shot saved. Though a brief scoring rally just before the break — including efforts from James Keyes and free-taker Tomas Keyes — brought them level at 0-11 apiece, the missed opportunities loomed large.
Laois struck first after the interval, with Ben Conroy netting from close range following a blocked effort by Paddy Purcell just seconds after the restart. However, they failed to capitalize on the momentum. Kildare responded with discipline and energy, stringing together two sets of three consecutive points to regain control.
Goals Seal the Result for the Lilywhites
The turning point came in the final quarter. With Kildare three points up entering the closing stages, they delivered a decisive blow. Sheridan broke through but had his shot saved; Travers followed up to finish from the rebound and extend the lead.
Moments later, Sheridan added a goal of his own to eliminate any remaining doubt. Kildare’s ability to take their chances starkly contrasted with Laois’s earlier wastefulness, underlining the shift in the contest.
This victory marks a new chapter for Kildare hurling. Not only does it secure them silverware, but it also ensures their participation in Division 1B of the National Hurling League in 2026. Their next test comes swiftly, with an All-Ireland preliminary quarter-final clash against Tipperary on the horizon.
For Laois, their journey in the MacCarthy Cup continues. They will aim to regroup ahead of their upcoming fixture against Dublin in Portlaoise. Reflecting on their final performance, the inability to capitalize on first-half dominance proved to be the decisive factor in the defeat.
