After the concession of the early goal and a pointed free in the first few minutes, the Gaels responded in swift and impressive fashion. With Jim Finglas winning clean ball in the full forward line and bringing those around him into the game, Robert Cox struck a superb goal and John O’Brien followed up with a couple of 45’s to bring the Gaels right back into contention.

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