Leitrim shown leap of talent at senior level, says Michelle Guckian

Michael Bolton

After winning the All-Ireland Intermediate football title in 2024, the Leitrim Ladies' side were shown the levels of senior football.

Crucial to that famous day was captain Michelle Guckian, who admitted it was difficult to come down from the excitement of winning the All-Ireland.

"We celebrated a lot from winning the All-Ireland in 2024; we definitely enjoyed the celebrations. Everything that came along with it, it was brilliant.

"Division Four, it haunted us, and still haunts us a year after. The step up to senior football, there is a huge gap between Intermediate and Senior. The standard is unbelievable.

"We learned a little bit of resiliance. No matter what happens on one day, you have to park that nd re-focus. It is a tough step up, and you have to be willing to give it your all in senior."

After exiting in the semi-finals of Division Four, relegation from senior football followed, in a year where Leitrim were brought back to reality.

A first step back to progress will come this Saturday, as they face Carlow in the Division Four final on Sunday at Birr.

Having being stuck in the bottom tier since 2024, the Leitrim captain was relieved to secure promotion.

Guckian says it was a strange feeling competing in Division Four and the senior championship last season, as she warned Leitrim must be on their game to defeat Carlow.

"We know that there is a great standard in every division; it is very difficult to move up the ranks.

"When you do, you really have to hold your own at that level. All it takes is one blitz of a bad performance or a bad game, and you are still in Division four.

"We know we are a good team, but if you don't show it, you don't get to progress, and that is how it goes.

"It will be the last time we will see Carlow this year, so they will give it a good rattle. Carlow last won it a couple of years ago, and will want to retain their title again."