In review: Carlow hurlers left to rue what might have been

It might seem to be a contradiction of sorts when suggesting the Carlow senior hurling team had a good year. On reflection the draw in the Joe McDonagh Cup with Laois hurt when Carlow needed a win to qualify for the final. They looked as if they were set to achieve that but a late, late goal saw their neighbours progress at their expense. Both sides had seven league points each but the Laois superior scoring difference saw them advance. If ever a result hurt then this was one.

Yet it was a successful season for the senior hurlers. A NHL1B draw against Offaly in Tullamore got their season off to a great start. Victories against Waterford are rare but the Decies came to Netwatch Cullen Park and a 2-21 to 2-19 win saw Carlow take both league points. This was followed up by a draw at home to Antrim.

Carlow travelled to Portlaoise for their penultimate game knowing their NHL1B status was on the line. A 2-26 to 0-29 win saw them maintain their place in the division while Laois were relegated. While the Joe McDonagh Cup setbacknwas hard to take it was a good year for Carlow as they will be playing NHL1B next season looking forward to games against Dublin and Wexford in particular.

Staying with the intercounty scene, eyebrows were raised later in the year after the club championship had been played off when Carlow manager, Tom Mullally, announced that he was stepping down. In a matter of days, Pat Bennett of Waterford was appointed, but such was the short time gap between one man leaving and the other being appointed one was left to wonder what exactly transpired. No matter what though, the appointment looks to be a good one. In the light of Shane Curran’s fleeting relationship earlier in the season, the County Board officials trusted with the appointment of intercounty managers will have treaded carefully.

On the club front, Mount Leinster Rangers regained their crown when beating the holders, St Mullins, by 1-19 to 0-16 in the final. There are green shoots in Naomh Bríd as they were impressive winners of the intermediate title. Bagenalstown Gaels turned league form around when beating Ballinkillen in the junior final.

The intercounty season is all set to start next weekend when Carlow take on Dublin in a home Walsh Cup game. Win or lose, they still have a tasty fixture against either Wexford or Laois. It is all systems go already and 2025 will fade quickly into the distance.