Justin McNulty's reaction to Laois' two-point defeat to Fermanagh

Laois wrapped up their Division 3 NFL campaign with a narrow two-point loss to Fermanagh on Sunday, as the Ulster side edged the contest in Enniskillen.

Despite the defeat, manager Justin McNulty remained upbeat about his side’s performance, highlighting the intensity and fight they showed throughout the game.

"There were huge elements of positivity around the performance, a very battling, dogged, tenacious game from our team which we have to be very pleased about. We made lots of errors that cost us dearly and we didn't control the kick-out play as strongly as we could and should and that cost us but we created a huge amount of goal-scoring opportunities. I think it was seven or eight at least and we opened them up. I think Fermanagh are counting their lucky stars, how the hell did they win that game because I think we were the better team."

For the second successive week, Laois looked in control heading down the home straight but were undone by their opponents gaining the upper hand in kick-outs and aerial battles. McNulty noted the similarities to their recent defeat to Clare.

"Like against Clare they got a run of momentum. Seven points unanswered again today, that's two games in a row and that has to be addressed, how that's happening and how we can fix that?"

READ NEXT: Who scored and who played in Laois’ defeat to Fermanagh in Enniskillen

Laois entered the campaign among the relegation favourites, but McNulty was immensely proud of how his side defied expectations and retained their place in Division 3.

"For me, the most positive thing is and the most important thing is the battling performance from our lads throughout the league. From the get-go with the departures we experienced after last season, the lads were written off. I think we were favourites for the drop and we held our position in the division and we were competitive in most games—you know, probably bar Kildare. We were highly competitive and we put it up to well-seasoned teams who've been playing in the higher divisions for a long time so lots to be positive about. But at the same time, the fellas are very, very annoyed, very upset and very disappointed by the result and given the level of effort they've put into it, the level of preparation they've put into it and they've given it their all and just didn't come right at the end but lots to be very pleased about."

One of the standout performers was captain Brian Byrne, who was deployed at full-forward instead of his usual centre-back role. The Graiguecullen man was a major threat in attack, scoring 1-3 from play and assisting Niall Corbet’s goal.

"Brian's a real stalwart of a Laois player and he'll do a job for you in every aspect of the game, that's just the character and nature of the man."

Attention now turns to the Leinster Championship, where Laois will travel to Wexford Park for a first-round clash. Their opponents come into the fixture on a high after winning all seven games in Division 4.

"There's no doubt Wexford will be coming in with their tails up, a clean sweep for them in Division Four. That’s no mean feat and we know they're the home team and they're the form team. We know we've got a real challenge on our hands but it’s something that we're really looking forward to and we’re really excited about. It’s something that we hope we can go and do ourselves proud."

McNulty also had some positive news on the injury front, as Laois should have a full squad available for the Wexford game.

"Hopefully, we'll have everyone available. Damon, Dicey and then Shaun Fitzpatrick got back in there and played a half which is hugely positive so hopefully, we'll have a clean bit of health."