'We're going to enjoy this one' – PJ Scully after Borris-Kilcotton's PIHC success
Scully had a great game where he scored 2-5
Borris-Kilcotton put the disappointment of last year's relegation behind them as they claimed the Premier Intermediate Championship title on Saturday night. Joint-captain PJ Scully shared how much it meant to finally secure the win after a tense final stretch.
"It's a great feeling. The last 10-15 minutes were nerve-wracking. We knew we were under pressure from Ballinakill; they pushed us back with the breeze, and we just couldn’t get the ball up the field. We were lucky to get over the line, but we did, and we're going to enjoy this one," said Scully.
With a strong breeze at Laois Hire O’Moore Park, Scully revealed the team’s game plan of using the wind to their advantage if they won the toss, aiming to build a lead in the first half. He highlighted how their strong start was crucial.
“We set out to go for the jugular early if we won the toss, hoping to build a lead. Thankfully, a few chances came my way, and I took them, unlike the semi-final. We had great performances all over the field, Niall Coss, Jer Quinlan, just to mention a few. It was a solid first half; the second half didn’t match it, but we’re not worried. The main thing is we won,” Scully added.
Scully also praised his co-captain, Stephen Finan, for an outstanding game, noting how difficult Finan is to mark and recognising the contributions of other key players.
"I’m glad he’s down the other end because when he’s on me, he’s a nightmare to mark. I know what the Ballinakill forwards felt tonight. He’s been a top-class player for us for a long time. Matthew Whelan showed his experience, and Noah Quinlan was outstanding as well. It was a great team effort,” he said.
Looking ahead to the Leinster Championship, Borris-Kilcotton will face the Westmeath champions in the first round. Scully explained that they hadn’t focused on the draw yet, out of respect for Ballinakill.
“Honestly, we haven’t thought about it. We respected every team in this championship, and tonight was all about Ballinakill. They're a brilliant team, and we've had great battles with them. We’ll enjoy the win now and regroup on Tuesday or Wednesday to look at the Westmeath champions. It’ll be tough, but we’re hoping to fly the flag for Laois and go far,” Scully concluded.