Laois hurling boss Niall Rigney has called on fans to come out and support their county for their crucial All-Ireland SHC qualifier meeting with Antrim at O'Moore Park on July 4. After suffering a heavy defeat at the hands of Galway, Laois drew the Saffrons in the opening round of the back door and Rigney concedes that the Ulster champions will be firm favourites for the tie. "Antrim will be strong favourites coming into the game, and I have no problem admitting that, they have beaten us twice already this year, and I'm sure they will be happy they drew us too," said Rigney. "Both counties know what's at stake here, if you win you're preparing for a game against one of the big teams, if you lose, you're facing either Offaly or Cork to stay in the All-Ireland championship." With home advantage at Portlaoise, Rigney feels it's an opportunity for supporters to come out and see their county hurlers, who he feels have showed great commitment to the cause this year. "Support will be a hugely important on the day, and I would urge anyone with interest in Laois hurling to come to the game, because the players deserve it, they have had a very difficult year and deserve all the support they can get. "The day after the Galway game we had 28 lads in the pool for a recovery session, there aren't many counties that would have a turn out like that after a heavy defeat. These lads are proud Laois men and I'd love to see a great crowd turn out for them." Tweet

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