OFFALY'S 3-22 to 0-11 defeat by Dublin in the Leinster Senior Football Championship semi-final on Sunday has been greeted by a surprising reaction. Instead of the “keyboard warriors” having a field day as they call for heads and demand action, the response has not only been surprisingly mute but it has been borderline positive.
13.
Jack Bryant Jack Bryant was replaced in the 54th minute but this is not a reflection on the way he played as Offaly had to get fresh legs onto the field. Bryant had a very decent game. He was very composed on the ball and showed well for it. He wanted to be involved and had a good first half in particular. He did miss one very good chance before half time – it was a half goal chance as he blasted it high and wide. He needs a bit more confidence with shooting but is very comfortable at this level. Rating – 7.
14.
Nathan Poland Nathan Poland was replaced at half time and had his moments in the first half, giving simple, effective passes when he got possession. Rating – 6.
15.
Keith O'Neill Keith O'Neill was sensational at times and was Offaly's best player, with Cormac Egan a very close second. O'Neill did some wonderful things, taking men on at pace and he was a bundle of energy. He got three points, two of them from play. The first point that he arrowed over with the outside of his right boot was breathtaking his first half mark was a super score – he isn't a big man but brilliantly won a long ball and then booted it over from distance. Rating – 9.