Longford will need to match Westmeath's 'phenomenal' work-rate if they are to repeat last year's famous Leinster SFC victory over their midland rivals on Sunday, according to manager Luke Dempsey. Mullingar-based Dempsey has been highly impressed by his former charges' work ethic and defensive performances, which were features of their recent NFL Division 2 triumph. "The Westmeath full back line and half back line really impressed me and they really have become a very solid unit, with Gary Connaughton is behind them. I'm not surprised because those players, in terms of professionalism, well you wouldn't get better," he said in an interview with a local newspaper. "I've been impressed with that unit and with the work-rate of the entire team. When the half back line go forward, the half forward line seem to be covering for them, in a role reminiscent of the Tyrone and Armagh teams." He added: "It's really a matter of matching Westmeath's work-rate which is phenomenal at the moment. It's been built over seven years of great experience and that work-rate is associated with success, confidence and a willingness to play for your county. "All those players are great county men. They love it because they've got success - three Division 2 titles, one Leinster title, two further All-Ireland quarter-final appearances - and the hunger is there for more." Tweet

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