Eamonn Kelly was prepared to take the blame for Offaly's catastrophic defeat to Westmeath in the Leinster SHC round-robin series.

The pre-match favourites suffered a 14-point mauling - a result which has caused shockwaves throughout the hurling world.

"The blame has to stop with me. Westmeath wanted it more," a crestfallen Kelly is quoted in the Irish Daily Star.

"Everything seemed spot on this morning, but it was a poor performance. Westmeath were hungrier and they were more confident on the ball. Their touch looked better.

"Next Saturday is a huge game for both ourselves and Carlow. It will be difficult to pick up the guys.

"We had only one or two areas of the pitch where we won. Sean Ryan was one of those and he got injured. He got concussed and he's not going to be an option for next week.

"We all, including myself, have to look in the mirror."

Tweet

Most Read Stories