Larkin “delighted” with Louth Ladies' result 

Louth Ladies pulled off a superb 1-6 to 0-6 victory over Division 3 leaders Wexford on Sunday afternoon at Páirc Na nGael, Ramparts.

The Wee County showed resilience and discipline to overcome their highly-rated opponents.  

After the match, manager Kevin Larkin shared his thoughts on his team's impressive performance. Reflecting on the win, Larkin was quick to acknowledge the quality of the opposition.  

He said: “First and foremost, Wexford are a great team. You never ever get an easy game off them. 

“We had spoken before the game, we said it is going to come down to that last quarter, the last 15 minutes, either we will be up, or they will. 

“Either way, it’s going to be a very tough game, but we just hung in and got the goal. Laura Collins as well coming back, she has been a dream.

“She got a poacher's goal in front of the goals, and that kicked us on then from there.” 

Louth's defensive effort was outstanding, nullifying Wexford's attacking threats. Larkin credited the players' preparation and teamwork in executing their game plan. 

He said: “Our defence has been absolutely smashing this year. Getting Shannen (McLaughlin) back is obviously very good. 

“If you have a good defence, it gives you a base then for an attack. The girls are constantly moving and constantly communicating. 

“We did our homework on Wexford. We knew who their sharpshooters were, and we tried to basically get them out of the game. 

“I am absolutely delighted with the win. The girls have worked so hard in training, and they deserve all the credit really, to be honest.” 

Despite trailing by a single point at half-time, The Wee County produced a dominant second-half display. The manager highlighted the importance of belief and sticking to their game plan. 

Larkin said: “We will always create chances. When you have Kate Flood in the team, then anything can happen. It was just a matter of us sticking to our game plan.

“I said at the start of the year that I am not setting these girls up to play against Wexford or Laois or whoever. 

“I am setting them up so that our set-up will beat anybody, and I think we proved that out there today.” 

The defining moment came just 26 seconds into the second half when Laura Collins found the net. 

“Laura just gives you that bit of cuteness. Obviously, she has played for Louth for a long time, but she is a great role model. Especially even for the younger girls.” 

Rather than sitting back after their goal, Louth continued to press forward. Larkin emphasised his philosophy of playing positive football. 

“I want to set the girls up to play football. For me personally, my philosophy is how it should be played,” he said. “A good defensive structure but you have to get up the pitch and score as well.

“And like I said, when you have Laura Collins, Kate Flood, and Eimear Byrne, who kicked one of the best points that I’ve seen, we are always going to create chances.” 

The Reds played with great cohesion and discipline, something their manager was proud to highlight. 

“They are an absolutely fantastic group to work with. Training is great, they work so hard in training, and it shows out there.

“Every player, even the girls who were coming on – we are a real team, and that is what we pride ourselves on. 

“The girls coming on are actually more important than the girls who start on the pitch, and it has been a great first quarter to work with them. Hopefully, that may continue.” 

With this victory, Louth have put themselves in a strong position for promotion. However, Larkin remains focused on taking things one game at a time. 

He said: “Our goal at the start of the year was just the next game. We don’t look beyond any team because we give every team the respect that they deserve. 

“Coming down here to play Wexford, we knew that this was going to be a really tough game, and we are really delighted with the result. 

“Wexford are a good team and will take a beating, but look, it is just on to the next game for us, and that is the honest answer.” 

Today's match was the first senior inter-county ladies' game played at Dundalk Gaels' ground, something Larkin appreciated. 

“Thanks to Louth LGFA and the Dundalk Gaels for opening up their pitch today. The girls get treated so well, and there are fantastic facilities here.” 

Larkin’s side now have a short break before their next fixture against Down. He believes the time off will be beneficial. 

The manager concluded by saying: “I think the girls need a break. We had a very tough start playing Cavan, Laois, and Wexford. 

“That’s three Intermediate teams and all teams that think they can win the championship, so we will reassess and do our homework on Down before we play them.”