Blackhall Gaels 2-06
Donaghmore/Ashbourne 2-04
Blackhall Gaels recovered impressively from the set back of an early goal to claim both points in this BFL Div 5 tie.
With the Gaels defence, for who Cyril O’Brien & Liam Howlett were outstanding, making it difficult for the home side to get any clear shots on goal, Blackhall built on that defensive foundation and added another fine left footed Cox goal as well as points from Cox again and the versatile John Staunton to lead by six at half time: 2-04 to 1-01.
The second half playing against a strong wind required a huge defensive effort to repel the Donaghmore Ashbourne challenge. The home side brought themselves back into the game with a fisted goal but were forced into shooting from distance by some great Gaels tackling, particularly by midfielders Peter Keegan & John O’Brien. Although Don/Ash managed a further 3 points, Robert Cox and Mick Durkan pointed efforts ensured Blackhall Gaels gained their first win of this campaign. This win now sets them up nicely for the start of the Junior D Championship.
Blackhall Gaels – David Ferris, Cyril O’Brien, Paddy Snee, Liam Howlett, Mick Snee, John Staunton (0-01), Ulick Colgan, John O’Brien (0-02), Peter Keegan, Mick Durkin (0-01), Shane O’Loughlin, John Kelly, Paul Regan, Robert Cox (2-02), Jim Finglas. Subs: Gary Connolly for Paddy Snee (inj), Kieran Devanney for Jim Finglas, Owen Creevey for Paul Regan