Dolan admits ‘work to be done’ ahead of league

Westmeath manager Dessie Dolan was satisfied his side got really good test against a strong Louth side on Saturday and was quick to acknowledge there's plenty to work on ahead of the league on January 28.

Dolan recalled most of his first choice team for the game having gone with most U20s the previous week, so it was positive for his main players to get such a quality game under their belt.

"You can see there’s work to be done. Louth had a strong side out and they are a good team, playing in Division 2. We will go away and come back again. We will go away and work hard now. At times we were a bit open back there (in defence). And we are giving the ball away a bit cheaply as well," he observed.

Dolan was happy that his side created plenty of opportunities in Saturday's game, but he will be looking for a more ruthless performance when it comes to finishing.

"It was a very good test. Louth punished our mistakes and I suppose it showed up some good bits of play and also some areas we have to work on. And it’s clear there’s a bit of work to be done before the National League starts," he remarked.

John Heslin and Sam McCartan were the two notable absentees, but will return, while Westmeath will be hoping a leg injury to Ray Connellan is not one of the serious variety and that the Athlone ace will make a full recovery for the Offaly game on Sunday week.