The GAA needs more of it – blind optimism blended with a bit of grit.
We don’t have to be nice to each other all the time. Sure, the GAA is one big community and we’re all in it together and being able to sit side-by-side with opposing fans is a cornerstone of everything that is wonderful about the Association.
But, fuck it, why not stick it to the opposition occasionally? Make them feel like they are entering enemy territory, make it clear they won’t have it all their own way, hint at a little menace? Especially when your opponents are not used to leaving th e cosy confines of home.
Never is this kind of attitude more crucial than when you are facing near insurmountable odds, such as those facing Carlow in Portlaoise on Saturday evening.
Dublin name their starting XV to face Carlow https://t.co/2b3BBPQuuc
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) June 3, 2017
In the blue corner, Dublin. With their 11 Leinster SFC titles in 12 years, their back-to-back All-Irelands, their 13 sponsors and their army of fans.
In the blue, yellow and green corner, Carlow. With their one Leinster SFC victory in six years, their Rastafarian jerseys and their Brendan Murphy.
The odds are stacked against the minnows but, spurred on by their great win over Wexford, they travel in hope that Turlough O’Brien’s men can do what no Leinster team have managed since Meath in 2010 – beat the Dubs in the Championship.
Carlow travel ready to meet their challenge and the county’s official Twitter account helped stir the blood this morning with this cracking image.
Bring your Sam, your Hill, your COYBIB, your hats, flags & headbands. Bring Molly bleedin Malone too but understand this: CARLOW IS RISING🇬🇳 pic.twitter.com/ifRGWylHee
— Carlow GAA (@Carlow_GAA) June 3, 2017
“Bring your Sam, your Hill, your COYBIB, your hats, flags and headbands. Bring Molly bleedin’ Malone too but understand this: CARLOW IS RISING”.
Magic. Imagine the buzz if they were able to welcome the Dubs to Netwatch Dr Cullen Park, but that is an argument for another day.
Imagine the buzz if they were able to welcome the Dubs to Netwatch Dr Cullen Park, but that is an argument for another day.
This is about putting it up to the Dubs, and Carlow have started the day well.
