People are starting to take notice says Kildare boss after huge win
Brian Dowling's men beat table-toppers Laois 4-20 to 1-18 in O'Moore Park and are now one result away from a Joe McDonagh Cup with Laois and Carlow one another
Brian Dowling couldn't hide his delight as Kildare made it three wins in a row.
He said, “If you gave us the option of a last day win over Down to make the final I would have jumped at the offer. We, the management team, have always tried to instill the confidence into the players that they are worthy of competing at the top table. When we lost to Kerry the reaction and response from the full panel was top class.
“We probably haven't got the credit we deserve but people are starting to take notice.”
When asked how important psychologically a win over Down would be. Not only would it guarantee a final spot but Down have beaten Kildare twice this year and Dowling was at pains to say Down have been something of a bogey team.
The Kildare boss added, “We aim to put that right next weekend. Down need a win as they try to avoid relegation so we are under no illusions about the task ahead.”
He pointed out it will be a week of rest and recovery. Despite the demanding weather conditions over the last few weeks Dowling had high praise for S&C coach Mickey Gillick. He has worked so hard with the players and their conditioning is testament to the Maynooth man.
Cathal McCabe finished with 1-2 but despite a slight leg injury he was delighted with the overall performance.
“We know the strength of our panel and we always believed we were good enough to make the final despite the opening round loss,” He said.
McCabe was delighted to get his goal just before the break.
He explained, “It was a score that gave us a bit of breathing space and it was easier to come back out five up instead of two. The breeze was strong so we knew every score was so important.
“There us great belief among the 35 or 36 players on the panel. Nothing phases us and we have backed up our Division one status by defeating the three fancied teams in the Joe McDonagh.”
Gerry Keegan described the win as his best experience in a Kildare jersey.