Steven Poacher – Counties like Carlow deserve their day

Carlow pulled off a shock last weekend when they beat Wexford

Steven Poacher, who is assistant manager in Carlow, has used his Gaelic Life column to again emphasise his belief that weaker counties must be allowed to play the very best in Ireland.

His point counters those who have called for a tiered championship.

“I was fortunate to be involved in Carlow’s magnificent first Leinster Senior Championship win since 2011 on Sunday past.

“It was an emotional day for a lot of the players. Some had never experienced winning a Leinster Championship game before as only a handful played in 2011.

“What it meant for the players and their families was enormous.

“The prize for us beating Wexford on Sunday past is a big game against the current All-Ireland champions Dublin, the first game Sky will televise this summer.

“Why should Carlow be denied that opportunity?

“Ask any of the panel would they rather be facing the Dubs or playing Leitrim in a B Championship. I think the answer would be clear.”

Read the full article in the current issue of Gaelic Life.