O’Toole: ‘We worked hard on the defensive side of the game’
Ronan O’Toole revealed that St Loman’s put renewed emphasis on their defensive game after losing last year’s Westmeath SFC final against The Downs.
The concession of a goal arguably cost them in that final, but on Sunday they worked really hard at closing down the space and put Coralstown/Kinnegad under strong pressure, conceding just seven scores over the course of the game.
“We were well set up and that’s credit to the coaching team. We have worked on our defensive shape a lot this year and it paid dividends today. We conceded just even points and didn’t concede a goal, which was crucial. We can be pleased with that. We didn’t fire on all cylinders, but we have something to work on now heading into the Leinster championship,” he said.
O’Toole was expecting a massive test from a well-balanced Coralstown/Kinnegad side.
“We knew it would be difficult, county finals are not easy won. We were aware Jack (Cooney) and Paschal (Kellaghan) would have them well set up and it was about grinding out a result. Thankfully we came out on the winning side,” he said.
He felt conditions were a factor in what was at times an unspectacular final.
“The ground was a bit soft after yesterday’s rain and the breeze made it extra difficult. We knew ‘Kinnegad would respond in the second half and it was level three times, but we kept responding.
“It shows the character within the group and we got over the line in the end,” he observed.
Victory completed a memorable week for O’Toole, who received an All Star nomination following some fine displays for Westmeath this season.
“I have been getting lots of messages about it and it’s nice. I just had to switch off the phone on Friday and focus on today in order to make it a great weekend. Thankfully today’s victory caps off a great week,” he said.
O’Toole said the players will get back to training and focus on making an impact in the upcoming Leinster club championship.
“We will just enjoy the next few days and then we’ll regroup and take it on. The journey continues.”