McConway hails Rochford's role as Tullamore advance

Tullamore football manager Paul McConway has hailed the impact former Mayo boss Stephen Rochford has made since he got involved with the Offaly side.

Having completed a three-in-a-row of Offaly senior titles last month, when they defeated Ferbane in the county final, Tullamore are clearly intent on making a major impression in the Leinster championship.

And on Sunday last, Tullamore claimed a 3-13 to 4-8 victory over Westmeath champions The Downs in their Leinster quarter-final at TEG Cusack Park.

Speaking afterwards, McConway said: “Obviously he (Rochford) has had a big influence. He's a fantastic coach. We have a good background team. There's a lot of really good people involved with us.

"We're blessed to have the background team that we have, and compliments to the players as well. These lads deserve the best.

“That's what we're trying to provide as a management team. And obviously, he has had a big impact on us as well. He brings a wealth of experience, and we're all trying to feed off that,” McConway continued.

The Tullamore goals in last Sunday's match came from Harry Plunkett (who finished with a tally of 1-5), Niall Furlong and Cillian Bourke.

Tullamore were 11 points ahead with less than ten minutes of regulation time remaining and though The Downs launched a late rally, the Blues held on to win by two points. The final scoreline flattered The Downs, with Tullamore on top for long spells and ruling the roost at midfield.

McConway's side will now face Dublin champions Ballyboden/St Enda's in their Leinster semi-final on Saturday, November 29.