Skryne make first Leinster final appearance
Meath kingpins Skryne take on Portlaoise in the Leinster club final in Newbridge today, and it's the Royals' first ever appearance in the provincial decider.
Skryne, who call on the talents of Meath supremos John McDermott and Trevor Giles, edged out first-time Kildare champions Allenwood in the quarter-finals before disposing of Starlights from Wexford to ensure their place in the final.
Laois champions Portlaoise confirm the rise of the county's profile in recent years with their first appearance in the final in more than 20 years.
They also emerged from the tougher side of the draw, which saw them claim the scalps of Offaly champions Rhode, followed by that of Dublin title-holders Kilmacud Crokes.
However, 'The Town' will have to survive today without former Laois captain Ian Fitzgerald, who is on honeymoon.
The Laois side can fall back on the services of county full-forward Colm Parkinson and minor star Peter McNulty.
So long the poor cousin to Meath in Leinster, the Laois champions have been installed as unbackable favourites for today's game.
