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Noelle Shevlin

Other Side Of The Hill

League Preview: Physicality Can Determine Offaly v Westmeath Outcome

Friday, 26 January 2024 13:02

Declan Kelly and Alan Mangan look forward to this weekend's league contest in Tullamore

If Westmeath are to beat Offaly in Tullamore this weekend, they''ll be relying on their physical superiority, according to former Lake County star, Alan Mangan.

Dessie Dolan's side were six point winners when the sides last met in league action last year, and Westmeath were comfortable winners in the Tailteann Cup semi-final the year previous.

Mangan feels it was their size and strength that helped them wrestle control in last year's meeting.

However he says he's concerned about the team's likely absentees this weekend.

Sam McCarton and Ray Connellan were thought likely to miss the game, but have been named in Dolan's team for Sunday.

While John Heslin's name, who has been in the States for work, is absent from the matchday panel.

Mangan tells Will O'Callaghan a close game like this can be decided on the availability of one or two important players, particularly Heslin:

Speaking to David Hollywood about physical requirements, Offaly manager Declan Kelly believes the counties are in the most demanding phase of the year:

Throw in at Glenisk O'Connor Park is set for 2pm on Sunday.

Elsewhere Laois welcome promotion rivals Longford to Laois Hire O'Moore Park for their Division Four opener tomorrow evening for a 6pm throw-in.

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