PREVIEW: Laois Camogie ready for Croke Park All-Ireland battle with Antrim
After Premier Junior glory last year, Laois are bidding to add the Intermediate crown to their growing list of achievements
Laois Camogie will bid to complete another remarkable chapter in their recent history when they face Antrim in the All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie Championship final in Croke Park on Sunday, August 9.
Throw-in is at 2pm as Laois return to headquarters for a third successive year, having reached the 2024 All-Ireland Premier Junior final before going on to claim Premier Junior honours last year. Now competing at Intermediate level, the O'Moore County are aiming to secure back-to-back All-Ireland titles and continue their incredible rise.
Standing in their way are an Antrim side who arrive in Croke Park with a strong pedigree and enter the final as favourites. The Ulster outfit competed in Division 1 of the National League this year following their relegation from the senior championship in 2025, gaining valuable experience against some of the country's leading teams.
Antrim booked their place in the decider with a convincing seven-point victory over Meath in the All-Ireland semi-final. They also carry the confidence of having previously won the Intermediate All-Ireland title in 2021, a success which earned them promotion to the senior ranks.
Laois' route to the final has been built on resilience and belief. After overcoming a difficult opening period against Kerry in the semi-final, where they fell behind early, they produced a superb second half performance to turn the game around and secure their place in Croke Park. They also needed a last-minute goal from Kaylee O’Keeffe against Down in the quarter-final.
That ability to stay composed under pressure has been a defining feature of Laois' season, with the group growing in confidence after a number of important victories. Their Leinster Championship success was a major milestone after falling short in the previous two provincial finals, while their strong finish against Westmeath in the All-Ireland group stages further strengthened their belief that they could challenge for national honours at this level.
Laois also have the benefit of significant big-game experience within their squad. The Camross contingent arrive having won the All-Ireland Intermediate Club Championship last December, while players from St Brigid's have also experienced the intensity of major club occasions in recent years.
Sunday's final promises to be a fascinating contest as Laois look to continue their remarkable journey and secure another piece of silverware.