Flanagan names team for O'Byrne Cup final

Fri, 16 Jan, 2026 - 10:20

Although still without a number of first team regulars, Brian Flanagan has named a strong looking team for Friday evening’s O’Byrne Cup Final against Westmeath at Cedral St Conleths Park, throw in 7.30pm.

Ryan Burke and Callum Bolton were unused substitutes for last weekend’s win over Dublin and then were on opposing sides on Tuesday evening when UCD beat Maynooth University in the Sigerson Cup but they both come into the team.

There is a solid look to the team around the middle third and it would be no surprise to see this starting 15 be pretty close to the one that takes to the field for opening round of the Allianz League in Omagh against Tyrone in little over a week.

Among the subs, Ryan Sinkey is the only player who missed the Dublin game due to injury who makes this matchday squad and there are still many who aren’t risked here.

There’s also a place among the subs for Daragh Mangan after his inspirational displays through 2025 as captain of Sallins. His only previous public appearance for Kildare was as substitute during last year’s early season challenge game against Galway.

1. Cian Burke – Clane

2. Harry O' Neill - Clane

3. Padraic Spillane – Athy

4. Ryan Burke – Caragh

5. James Harris - Castlemitchell

6. Eoin Lawlor – Naas

7. Brian Byrne – Naas

8. Kevin Feely – Athy

9. Brendan Gibbons – Kilcock

10. Brian McLoughlin – Clane

11. Alex Beirne – Naas

12. Callum Bolton – Sarsfields