Relegation Kilti vs Chill Chomain

 Chill Chomain 0-17

Kiltimagh 2-18

Knockmore

Eoin Horkan 

Kiltimagh will remain at intermediate level for another season after overcoming a determined North Mayo challenge in an entertaining relegation semi-final.

The return of Aidan Cosgrave proved hugely significant for the east Mayo club, with the forward finding the net twice and providing the foundation for a hard-earned victory in a contest which ebbed and flowed throughout.

Kiltimagh could hardly have wished for a better opening. Within the first minute, Cosgrave was on hand to finish to the net and give his side an early advantage.

The response from the opposition was immediate, though, as Justin Healy reduced the deficit. Conor Hession restored Kiltimagh's lead from a free shortly afterwards, but there was little to separate the teams during a lively opening spell.

By the ten-minute mark, the sides were level. Liam Maloney registered a valuable two-pointer before Healy added another score to bring the game back on terms.

The north Mayo side regained the initiative from the subsequent kick-out, with Adam Conroy taking advantage of the conditions to fire over.

Hession was again accurate from a placed ball at the other end, but Healy was becoming increasingly influential in attack and responded with another score.

The game's first major turning point arrived before the end of the opening quarter. Cosgrave reacted quickest inside the opposition defence and finished clinically for his second goal, putting Kiltimagh back in front.

The pace remained high as the second quarter unfolded, with both sets of forwards beginning to exploit openings.

Hession continued his impressive accuracy from frees, while Jack Healy answered with a long-range effort for the opposing side.

Kiltimagh then enjoyed a productive period as Conor Mallee, Paul Kelly and Oisín Mulderrig all contributed to the scoreboard.

The opponents remained within touching distance, with the Healys continuing to pose a threat, while another Hession dead-ball score ensured Kiltimagh maintained their advantage.

Neither side was able to establish complete control before the interval and the teams went to the dressing rooms with the outcome still very much in the balance.

Kiltimagh returned from the break with a renewed sense of purpose and produced a superb opening to the second half.

Whatever was said by manager Liam Lydon during the interval certainly had the desired effect, as Kiltimagh reeled off six unanswered scores to seize control.

Jack Niland, introduced from the bench, got the scoreboard moving before Mulderrig  and Hession produced two excellent two-point efforts. 

Fionnán Burke then made his presence felt with two scores, including an impressive effort from near the corner, leaving Kiltimagh in a commanding position.

The North Mayo side desperately needed a response and Healy duly provided it, landing two quick scores to interrupt the Kiltimagh surge and offer his team a glimmer of hope.

Both benches were now playing an important role and Kiltimagh's experience came to the fore when veteran Thomas Keegan was introduced. He made an immediate contribution, calmly sending over a score.

Despite falling behind, the Gaeltacht side  continued to battle and Maloney and Healy both added further scores as they attempted to close the gap.

Kiltimagh, however, held their composure when it mattered most. Hession struck twice late on before Kelly added the final score, bringing the contest beyond the reach of their opponents.

The result guarantees Kiltimagh another season at intermediate level and brings relief to the East Mayo club after a difficult campaign.

For the defeated side, attention now turns to a relegation final against Louisburgh in two weeks, with their intermediate status hanging in the balance.

Chill Chomain:Kian Gallagher;Dalton Murphy,Seamus Mason,Lorcan McGrath;Joe Corduff,Liam Maloney(0-3 1 2pt),Cathal Doherty;Luke Tighe,Sean Murphy;Justin Healy(0-8 3fs),Eoghan McGrath,Kyle McGrath;Gavin McAndrew,Jack Healy(0-4 2 2pts)),Adam Conroy(0-2 1 2pt).

Subs Used:Lorcan Mason for Kyle McGrath, Derek Moran for Kyle McGrath, John Flannery for Lorcan McGrath.

Kiltimagh:Jamie McNicholas;Evan Cosgrave,Liam Kelly,Darragh McGovern;Sean Forkan,Mattie Cummins ,Eoghan McGovern;Paul Kelly(0-2),Liam Smyth;Fionnan Burke,(0-2)Conor Hession(0-9 6fs 1 2pt),Aidan Cosgrave(2-0);Conor Mallee(0-1),Oisin Mulderrig(0-3 1 2pt),Brian Gallagher.

Subs Used:Jack Niland (0-1) for Eoghan McGovern, Thomas Keegan (0-1) for Fionnan Burke,Paddy McDonnell for Conor Mallee 

Referee:Kevin Corcoran

Relegation semi final Kilti vs Chill Chomain (MN)

 Chill Chomain 0-17

Kiltimagh 2-18

Knockmore

Eoin Horkan 

Two goals from the returning Aidan Cosgrave  proved the main difference and maintained his side's intermediate status for another season.

It was a dream start in this semi final as Kiltimagh rattled the net through Aidan Cosgrave inside the opening minute. The visitors managed to narrow the gap slightly through Justin Helay before a Conor Hession free had the gap back out to a goal inside five minutes.

The tie was level by the ten minute mark as a Liam Maloney two pointer was followed up by another Healy strike.Chill Chomasin then took the lead from the resulting kick out as with the aid of the breeze Adam Conroy raised another orange flag. A Hession free down the far end stemmed the tide before Healy added another to his account .

The game then turned just before the quarter hour mark as Cosgrave found himself in the perfect spot to fire into the back of the net again.

The second quarter of this game saw  both sides' forward lines starting to get on top of the defenses.

First up it was Hession with another free before Jack Healy lone range strike to give his side the lead. 

A flurry of scores from the east Mayo sides Conor Mallee, Paul Kelly and Oisin Mulderrig had them on the front foot.The Healys added more scores for their side in between a final dead ball from Hession

This left the sides deadlocked at the break.

With the breeze and the words of manager Liam Lydon at half time. This pushed Kiltimagh forward as they hit six unanswered scores in a row. It was substitute Jack Niland who started the scoring along with a pair of two pointers from Mulderrig and Hession, a double from Fionnan Burke one from near the corner flag had his side well in control.

Just before the quarter hour mark a Helay double had stopped the momentum of the opposition.

The benches were starting to cause even more damage as veteran Thomas Keegan slotted over minutes after being sprung from the bench. 

The north Mayo side kept in touch with final scores from Maloney and Healy but a final double from Hession and a final score from Kelly. 

This ensured intermediate status for them while it sent the opposition into a relegation final against Louisbourgh in two weeks' time.

Kiltimagh:Jamie McNicholas;Evan Cosgrave,Liam Kelly,Darragh McGovern;Sean Forkan,Mattie Cummins ,Eoghan McGovern;Paul Kelly(0-2),Liam Smyth;Fionnan Burke(0-2) ,Conor Hession(0-9 6fs 1 2pt)),Aidan Cosgrave(2-0);Conor Mallee(0-1),Oisin Mulderrig,(0-3 1 2pt),Brian Gallagher.

Subs Used:J Niland (0-1) for McGovern (35),T Keegan (0-1) for Burke (48), P McDonnell for Mallee (54)

Chill Chomain:Kian Gallagher;Dalton Murphy,Seamus Mason,Lorcan McGrath;Joe Corduff,Liam Maloney(0-3 1 2pt),Cathal Doherty;Luke Tighe,Sean Murphy;Justin Healy(0-8 3fs),Eoghan McGrath,Kyle McGrath;Gavin McAndrew,Jack Healy(0-4 2pts),Adam Conroy(0-2 1 2pt).

Subs Used L Mason for McGrath (24), D Moran for McAndrew (53),J Flannery for L McGrath (58)

Referee:Kevin Corcoran

Motm: Conor Hession 0-9. From the outset the youngster was unerring from placed  balls and frees. Came out around the middle at times winning  some kick outs and breaking balls.

Other nominations: Justin Healy. The sharpshooter was a constant threat with the 0-8 who knows if he had more support what could have happened.

Aidan Cosgrave: His two goals and relentless workrate was a constant thorn in the side of the opposition.

Brian Gallagher.

The veteran rolled back the years playing as a sweeper spare man and intercepted a number of balls played into Healy’s path.

LGFA Semi Final (MN)

 Knockmore 2-13

Kilmovee 2-6

Knockmore

Eoin Horkan 

There was no shortage of twists and turns in this senior semi-final as Knockmore and Kilmovee traded blows in an absorbing contest, with the outcome remaining in doubt well into the second half.

Kilmovee looked to have positioned themselves for a place in the decider when they held the advantage after a lively opening half and continued to threaten after the restart. Knockmore, however, refused to let the game slip and produced a decisive burst in the final quarter to turn the contest firmly in their favour.

The introduction of Mia Traynor proved particularly influential, while captain Lara Sweeney led from the front as Knockmore turned the game on its head in a devastating closing spell.

Both sides had early opportunities before Hannah Reape opened the scoring for Knockmore with a well-taken point.

The hosts soon began to settle and, with Kilmovee struggling to convert their chances, Knockmore took advantage.

Sweeney opened her account before Amy O’Connor and Shauna Howley added more scores to leave Knockmore four points clear inside the opening fifteen minutes.

Kilmovee gradually worked their way back into the contest, with Shauna Golden finally getting them off the mark from a placed ball.

The visitors' pressure began to tell as half-time approached and they were level with eight minutes remaining in the opening half.

A dangerous ball from Sinead Cafferky into the Knockmore defence was finished to the net by sister  Lisa Cafferky, bringing the sides level and giving Kilmovee considerable momentum.

The east Mayo side then struck again in dramatic fashion.

Golden sent over a long-range free that somehow found its way into the Knockmore net, leaving the home side stunned and Kilmovee supporters celebrating.

Knockmore responded before the break, however, with Reape powering through the centre before splitting the posts.

That left two points between the teams at half-time, with Kilmovee holding the advantage.

Whatever was said in the Knockmore dressing room had the desired effect.

They emerged from the interval with renewed intent and Sweeney quickly took centre stage.

The Knockmore captain registered three scores in succession, one from play and two from frees, as the home side began to eat into Kilmovee's advantage.

Golden wasn't finished either, though, and two more scores from the Kilmovee attacker were followed by another point from Sinead Cafferky.

With thirteen minutes remaining, Kilmovee appeared to have regained control.

Then came the decisive intervention from the Knockmore bench.

Traynor was introduced and immediately brought a new intensity to the Knockmore attack. Her impact was almost instantaneous as O'Connor narrowed the gap before Traynor turned provider.

Twice she won possession from Kilmovee kick-outs and on both occasions Knockmore punished the mistake.

Sweeney was first to benefit, finding the net, before Clodagh Keane followed suit as Knockmore hit two goals in quick succession.

Suddenly, a game that had looked to be slipping away from Knockmore had been transformed.

There was still drama to come.

Reape was shown a yellow card with five minutes remaining, meaning Knockmore would have to see out the closing stages with fourteen  players.

Rather than retreat, they continued to attack.

Traynor added another point before Sweeney and Sarah Mulvihill also found the target as Knockmore stretched their advantage.

Kilmovee managed a late response through Tori Duffy, but there was to be no way back for the visitors.

Howley had the final say, completing the scoring as Knockmore secured their place in the senior final.

It was a hugely impressive response from Knockmore, who showed character after falling behind and produced their best football when the contest was on the line.

Sweeney's contribution was central, while Traynor's arrival from the bench proved a key moment as Knockmore eventually pulled clear.

Their reward is a place in the senior final in two weeks' time, where Burrishrule awaits.

Knockmore:Grace Naughton;Caitlin Burke,Emily Hughes,Siofragh Kelly;Emily Reaper,Roisin Flynn,Nina McVann:Sarah Mulvihill(0-1),Hannah Reape(0-2);Ciara Durkan,Shauna Howley(0-2),Sarah Dempsey;Amy O’Connor(0-2),Clodagh Keane(1-0),Lara Sweeney(1-6).

Subs Used:M Traynor for Kelly (35), M  Breslin for Dempsey (52), Á Clarke for  Sweeney (58).

Kilmovee:Méabh Lavin;Rebecca Towey,Ava Horgan,Serena Hanley;Anna Mai Regan,Lynda Hanley,Ilana Phillips;Sinead Cafferky(0-1),Leah McCugh;Katelyn Regan, Shauna Golden(1-4),Lucia McDonnell;Tori Duffy(0-1),Lisa Cafferky(1-0),Saerlaith Dillon.

Subs Used:L Foley for Phillips(35),A Conway for  Hanley(54),Elise Phillips for Dillon (58)

Referee Kevin Corcoran 

Players of the Match 

Lara Sweeney: The Knockmore captain led from the front her 1-5 along with the pressure she put on the opposition meant that the rest of her side would follow in kind.

LGFA Semi Final (CT)

 Knockmore 2-13

Kilmovee 2-6

Knockmore

Eoin Horkan 

Knockmore produced a stirring second-half comeback on Sunday morning to book their place in the senior final, where they will meet Burrishrule in two weeks’ time.

The home side had to withstand a strong challenge from Kilmovee before eventually pulling clear in the closing stages, with an inspired introduction from the bench proving decisive.

It was Hannah Reape who opened the scoring, firing over after both sides had squandered early opportunities in front of goal. Knockmore settled quickly thereafter, with Lara Sweeney opening her account before Amy O’Connor and Shauna Howley added further scores to put the hosts four points clear inside the opening quarter.

Kilmovee responded well and began to find their feet as the half progressed. Shauna Golden got them off the mark from a dead ball before the visitors drew level with eight minutes remaining in the half.

A Sinead Cafferky delivery caused problems in the Knockmore defence and Lisa Cafferky got the crucial touch to direct the ball to the net, bringing the sides level.

With the momentum now firmly behind Kilmovee, Golden struck a sensational long-range free that found the back of the net, sending the travelling support into raptures and leaving Knockmore stunned.

However, the home side refused to panic and Reape responded with a fine point after driving through the centre of the field. That left just two points between the teams at the interval, with Kilmovee holding the advantage.

Knockmore came out with renewed purpose after the restart, clearly responding to the words of their management during the break. Captain Sweeney led by example, scoring three times in succession, including one from play and two from placed balls.

Kilmovee refused to surrender their lead without a fight, though, as Golden added two more points before Sinead Cafferky also found the target. With 13 minutes remaining, the east Mayo side appeared to be in control and threatening to pull away.

That was when Knockmore turned to their bench.

The introduction of Mia Traynor proved a major turning point. Her energy and pressure immediately unsettled the Kilmovee defence, and O’Connor reduced the deficit before Traynor made her mark in spectacular fashion.

The substitute won possession from two kick-outs in quick succession, setting up Sweeney and Clodagh Keane, who both found the net as Knockmore produced a devastating burst of attacking football.

With five minutes remaining, Reape was shown a yellow card, leaving Knockmore to see out the contest with 14 players. It mattered little, however, as the home side continued to dominate the closing exchanges.

Traynor added another score before Sweeney and Sarah Mulvihill also raised white flags, leaving Knockmore firmly in command by the end of normal time.

Kilmovee did manage one final response when Tori Duffy found the target, but it proved little more than a consolation.

Howley had the final say for Knockmore as the home side completed an impressive turnaround to secure their place in the senior decider.

After trailing at half-time, Knockmore's second-half response was emphatic, with their substitutes making a major impact and their captain leading from the front.

The reward is a place in the senior final against Burrishrule in two weeks' time.

Knockmore:Grace Naughton;Caitlin Burke,Emily Hughes,Siofragh Kelly;Emily Reaper,Roisin Flynn,Nina McVann:Sarah Mulvihill(0-1),Hannah Reape(0-2);Ciara Durkan,Shauna Howley(0-2 1f),Sarah Dempsey;Amy O’Connor(0-2),Clodagh Keane(1-0),Lara Sweeney(1-5 3fs).

Subs Used:Mia Traynor(0-1) for  S Kelly, Marie Breslin for S Dempsey, Áine Clarke for L Sweeney.

Kilmovee:Méabh Lavin;Rebecca Towey,Ava Horgan,Serena Hanley;Anna Mai Regan,Lynda Hanley,Ilana Phillips;Sinead Cafferky(0-1),Leah McCugh;Katelyn Regan, Shauna Golden(1-4 3fs),Lucia McDonnell;Tori Duffy(0-1),Lisa Cafferky(1-0),Saerlaith Dillon.

Subs Used:Leanne Foley I Phillips,Aoibhinn Conway for S Hanley,Elise Phillips for  S Dillon)

Referee Kevin Corcoran 

LGFA Semi Final (WP)

 Knockmore 2-13

Kilmovee 2-6

Knockmore

Eoin Horkan 

A late surge from the home side on Sunday morning sent them into the senior final in two weeks time against Burrishrule.

It was Hannah Reape who opened the scoring  with a point in this tie after both sides had squandered early chances on goal. The home side were finding it easier to get scores as Lara Sweeney opened her account for the day before Amy O’Connor and Shauna Howley had the side four points up by the quarter hour mark.

The visitors managed to start battling back when Shauna Golden found her range from a dead ball. With eight minutes left on the clock before half time the tie was level as a Sinead Cafferky ball was directed into the net by sister Lisa.Just as it looked like the sides would go in deadlocked at the break up stepped Golden whose long range free made its way into the net leaving the Kilmovee crowd in raptors as the home side were stunned.

A final white flag came from Reape who drove through the middle of the park as she left two points between the sides at the interval.

Once the game restarted and the words of their manager ringing in their ears a captain Lara Sweeney led from the front with three scores on the spin, one from play and two dead balls.

This was cancelled out down the far end by a Golden double and a fin strike from Sinead Cafferky..

With thirteen minutes left on the clock it looked like the east Mayo side would pull away.

An inspired substitution from Knockmore changed this as Mia Traynor was unleashed from the bench.

Her pressure paid off as O‘Connor narrowed the gap before Traynor got her hands on two kick outs feeding Sweeney and Clodagh Keane to raise quick fire green flags.With five minutes left Hannah Reape was given a yellow seeing her side having to defend with fourteen. This didn't stop them as three more scores first from Traynor along with Sweeney and Sarah Mulvihill had them well in control by the end of normal time.

The Shamrocks did trouble the umpire one last time through Tori Duffy  before Holwey finished the scoring.

Scorers:Knockmore:Lara Sweeney 1-5 (3fs),Clodagh Keane 1-0,Amy O’Connor, Hannah Reape 0-2,Shauna Howley 0-2 (1f) and Sarah Mulvihill and Mia Traynor 0-1 each 

Kilmovee Shamrocks:Shauna Golden 1-4 (3fs),Lisa Cafferky 1-0, Sinead Cafferky and Tori Duffy 0-1 each

Knockmore:Grace Naughton;Caitlin Burke,Emily Hughes,Siofragh Kelly;Emily Reaper,Roisin Flynn,Nina McVann:Sarah Mulvihill,Hannah Reape;Ciara Durkan,Shauna Howley,Sarah Dempsey;Amy O’Connor,Clodagh Keane,Lara Sweeney.

Subs Used:Mia Traynor  (for Kelly), Marie Breslin (for Dempsey), Áine Clarke (for Sweeney).

Kilmovee:Méabh Lavin;Rebecca Towey,Ava Horgan,Serena Hanley;Anna Mai Regan,Lynda Hanley,Ilana Phillips;Sinead Cafferky,Leah McCugh;Katelyn Regan, Shauna Golden,Lucia McDonnell;Tori Duffy,Lisa Cafferky,Saerlaith Dillon.

Subs Used:Leanne Foley (for Phillips),Aoibhinn Conway (for Serena Hanley),Elise Phillips (for Saerlaith Dillon)

Referee Kevin Corcoran 

Swinford vs Ballycastle (WP)

 Swinford 0-15 

Ballycastle 1-8

Swinford 

Eoin Horkan

Swinford secured their first win of the Junior Championship campaign on Saturday evening  as they held off a late Ballycastle comeback to claim victory in their final group outing.

The home side made an excellent start, opening up an early two-point lead through Mark Forkan before Kevin McDonagh added a score from a dead ball.

Ballycastle settled themselves and began to find their feet, with Finn McDermott Cox driving through the centre before registering the north Mayo side's opening score before the ten-minute mark.

By the quarter-hour mark, Swinford had restored their advantage with Evan Rowley and Jack Ferguson both finding the target to leave a goal between the teams.

Ballycastle continued to apply pressure and, with ten minutes remaining in the half, Sam Kelly and McDermott Cox reduced the deficit to the minimum with well-taken scores.

Swinford responded strongly before the interval, enjoying their best spell of the opening half as Forkan and McDonagh added to their tallies before substitute Michael Daly also got on the scoresheet.

The oppsonets had the final say before the break, however, with Kelly converting a dead ball to leave the visitors just a goal adrift at half-time.

Swinford came out with renewed purpose after the restart and quickly extended their lead. Dylan Toner converted a 45 before Gavin Tuffy and captain Jack Ferguson added further scores to put the home side in a commanding position.

Ballycastle found it difficult to break through a resolute Swinford defence, but a number of positional changes eventually helped them get back into the contest.

One of the key moves saw Lorcan O'Donnell pushed into the full-forward line, and the change immediately paid dividends as he struck two points in quick succession to reduce the gap.

The east Mayo side  remained composed and continued to find scores as the final quarter progressed. Sean McDonagh, Toner, Ferguson and Thomas Tuffy all raised white flags as the home side once again looked to have put the result beyond doubt.

However, the visitors refused to surrender and Anthony Tighe gave them renewed hope when he found the net late on.

The visitors pressed in search of a second goal, but Swinford held firm to see out the remainder of the contest and deservedly claim their first Junior Championship victory.

The opposition  will feel they had opportunities to make the game even tighter, with a number of missed frees, particularly late on, ultimately proving costly.

They will now turn their attention to their final group game when they host Tourmakeady in two weeks' time.

Scorers:Swinford K McDonagh 0-2 (2fs),D Toner 0-3 (1 45),M Forkan 0-2,J Ferguson 0-3, G Tuffy, S McDonagh,T Tuffy,E Rowley,M Daly 0-1 each.

Ballycaste:S Kelly 0-4 (1 2ptf),A Tighe 1-0, L O’Donnell 0-2, F McDermott Cox 0-2.

Swinford:Emmet Peyton;James Lavin,Alan McLoughlin,Enda Lavin;Gavin Tuffy,Josh Smith,David Taylor;Dylan Toner,Jack Ferguson;Kevin McDonagh,Mark Forkan,Sean McDonagh;Darren Campbell,Thomas Tufffy,Evan Rowley

Subs Used M Daly (for Lavin),B Lord (for Smith),D Molloy (for Rowley), M Prendergast (for Tuffy).

Ballycastle:Jason O’Neill;Keith Carden,John Carey,Dean Kelly;Fionnan Mac Conghamhna,Kevin Healy,Michael Tighe;Shane Grier,Finn McDermott Cox;Shane Maughan,Fergal Forde,Lorcan O’Donnell;Tom Tomas,Eoin McDonnell,Sam Kelly.

Subs Used: M Forde (for Carey), A Tighe (for McDonnell.

Referee; Declan Leonard

Swinford vs Ballyastle (MN)

 Swinford 0-15

Ballycastle 1-8

Swinford 

Eoin Horkan

A late comeback from Ballycastle wasn't enough as the home side registered their first win in their final game of the Junior championship.

For the home side it was a great start going two points up early on with efforts from Mark Forkan before a deadball off Kevin McDonagh.

The north Mayo men responded when Finn McDermott Cox powered through the middle before the ten minute mark.

By the quarter hour mark there was a goal between the sides as Evan Rowley and Jack Ferguson had raised white flag.

With ten minutes left the visitors had the gap down to the minimum with Sam Kelly and McDermott Cox slotting over.

The final few minutes of the half belonged to the home side with a trio of scores, Forkan and McDonagh added to their tally along with a final effort before the break from substitute Michael Daly.

With the final kick of the half Kelly managed to narrow the gap to a goal with a dead ball.

Once the game restarted the home side pushed forward and added to their advantage as a forty-five from Dylan Toner along with efforts from Gavin Tuffy and captain Jack Ferguson.

Ballycastle were finding it hard to break down a resolute Swinford defence but they eventually narrowed the gap as they made a number of positional changes. One of these was moving Lorcan O’Donnell into the full forward line this pivotal as he raised two white flags in quick succession.

In the final quarter Swinford proved that they  would be a match for any team in the junior b competition as they extended the gap as Sean McDongagh along with Toner Fergus and Thomas Tuffy.

Just as it looked like the game was over the visitors had other ideas, a goal from Anthony Tighe reignited the contest.

They would rue a couple of missed frees during the game and towards the end.

They will host Tourmakeady in the final game of the group in two weeks time.

Swinford:Emmet Peyton;James Lavin,Alan McLoughlin,Enda Lavin;Gavin Tuffy(0-1),Josh Smith,David Taylor;Dylan Toner(0-3 45),Jack Ferguson(0-3);Kevin McDonagh(0-2 fs),Mark Forkan(0-2),Sean McDonagh(0-1);Darren Campbell,Thomas Tufffy(0-1),Evan Rowley(0-1).

Subs Used:M Daly(0-1) for Lavin (25), B Lord for Smith (40),D Molloy for Rowley (53),M Prendergast for Tuffy.

Ballycastle:Jason O’Neill;Keith Carden,John Carey,Dean Kelly;Fionnan Mac Conghamhna,Kevin Healy,Michael Tighe;Shane Grier,Finn McDermott Cox(0-2);Shane Maughan,Fergal Forde,Lorcan O’Donnell(0-2);Tom Tomas,Eoin McDonell,Sam Kelly(0-4 1f 1 2ptf).

Subs Used: M Forde for Carey (54), A Tighe(1--0) for McDonnell (55)

Referee Declan Leonard.

Motm:Jack Ferguson

The captain led by example from the start lording the midfield while adding scores and also defending quite well at times.

Other nominations 

Dylan Toner : Similar to Ferguson probable didnt ignite as much until the second half.

Sam Kelly: The late replacement for Michael Forde produced some fine scores and was definitely worth his place in the starting team and could be in with a shout for starting in two weeks time.

Claremorris vs Charlestown (WP)

 Claremorris 0-18

Charlestown 1-12

Eoin Horkan 

Aghamore

Claremorris held their nerve when it mattered most to secure a home championship semi-final at the expense of Charlestown in a dramatic encounter at Aghamore on Saturday evening.

The south Mayo side had to withstand a determined late assault from Charlestown, and with 14 men on the field for the closing stages, they showed considerable character to protect a three-point advantage.

At the heart of their victory was the accuracy of Niall Hurley, who finished with an impressive nine points, while James McCormack produced perhaps the most important moment of the evening with a superb late block to deny Charlestown a potential match-winning goal.

Claremorris settled quickest and Hurley immediately demonstrated his range when he converted a long-distance two-point free to open the scoring.

Charlestown were soon level, however, with Gareth O’Donnell showing similar confidence from outside the arc to raise an orange flag

The early exchanges were lively and Claremorris soon began to threaten in attack. Conor McGuinness  found the target as the south Mayo men built momentum, while Dara Hurley added another score before Niall Hurley registered again.

Charlestown responded in impressive fashion.

Paul Towey opened his account from distance before he combined brilliantly with Matthew Lenehan. The neat exchange opened the Claremorris defence and Lenehan finished the move clinically to the net, putting the Sarsfields in front.

The east Mayo outfit stretched their lead further when Eoin Murphy drove forward before firing over, leaving Charlestown two points to the good after 15 minutes.

Claremorris refused to panic and quickly regained their composure. Cathal Joyce pointed before the Hurley brothers began to make their influence felt. Niall converted another free for two points, while Dara also raised a two-pointer, with a Towey effort in between.

Towey was becoming increasingly influential for Charlestown and enjoyed a fascinating battle with Paul Gilmore. The Charlestown sharpshooter took control of the closing stages of the half, landing three further points as the Sarsfields continued to trade scores.

Claremorris  thought they had the final say before the interval, with Niall Hurley adding another point before Towey finished the scoring sending the sides into the dressing rooms level at the break.

With the wind at their backs after the restart, Claremorris made the perfect beginning to the second period. Mark Maloney found his range with an important score before Ben Crean responded for Charlestown.

That was followed by Claremorris' strongest spell of the contest.

Dara Hurley added another score, Joyce struck for two points and Maloney converted a 45, before Niall Hurley completed the burst of scoring. Suddenly, Claremorris had established a four-point cushion and appeared to be taking control.

Charlestown, with their championship hopes hanging in the balance, refused to let the game slip away. Towey once again led the charge, displaying his considerable accuracy from placed balls.

The pressure eventually told when Paul Gilmore received a second yellow card and was dismissed, leaving Claremorris to negotiate the final stages with 14 players.

That setback could easily have unsettled the south Mayo side, but instead they dug deep.

Charlestown continued to attack and several efforts from distance threatened to bring them back within touching distance. Claremorris goalkeeper Darragh Fallon stood firm, making crucial interventions as the pressure mounted.

With ten minutes remaining, Charlestown sensed an opportunity. Towey continued to carry the main scoring threat and another Hurley point was answered by the Charlestown forward, leaving three between the sides.

The final minutes were played at a frantic pace, with every possession taking on added significance.

Then came the decisive moment.

Towey broke through the Claremorris defence with the goal clearly in his thoughts. With the prospect of a dramatic turnaround looming, James McCormack produced a magnificent block to deny the Charlestown attacker and preserve Claremorris' lead.

It proved to be the defining defensive intervention of the evening.

When the final whistle sounded, Claremorris had done enough to secure victory and, crucially, a home quarter final 

There was further significance attached to the result as news filtered through from Castlebar that Kilmeena had secured victory. That outcome meant Charlestown would now face a relegation semi-final rather than progressing to the championship quarter-finals.

For Claremorris, meanwhile, it was a evening  of resilience, accurate finishing and late defensive bravery — qualities that could prove invaluable as they prepare for the next stage of their championship campaign.

Scorers Claremorris (N Hurley 0-9 (2 2ptfs), C Joyce 0-3 (1 2ptf), D Hurley 0-3 (1 2pt) Mark Maloney 0-2 (1 45), C McGuiness(0-1).

Charlestown: P Towey 0-7 ( 2 fs1 2ptf), M Lenehan 1-1,G O’Donnell 0-2, B Crean and E Murphy 0-1 each 

Claremorris:Darragh Fallon;Mark Noonan,Darragh Fitzpatrick,David Slattery;Paul Gimore,James McCormack,David Hurley;David O’Reilly,Conor McGuiness;Cathal Joyce,Dara Hurley,Johnny Cummins;Stephen Gill,Mark Maloney,Niall Hurley.

Subs Used: Colin Gill (for D Slattery),D Slattery (for J Cummins), Craig Cassidy (for J Noone),Matthew Macken (for D O’Reilly),James Stretton (for C Joyce).

Charlestown:Kenneth Brennan;Tadhg Horkan,Ben Conway,Owen Flannery;Tomas Goldrick,Niall Murphy,Jack Corley;Patrick Goldrick,Thomas Holton;Gareth O’Donnell,Paul Towey,Alan Woods;Ruairí Cullen,Niall Fleming,Matthew Lenehan.

Subs Used:Alan Woods (for E Murphy),Cian Towey (for C McArdle),Paddy Joe Dunleavy (for O Flannery).

Referee: Vincent Neary

Claremorris vs Charlestown (MN)

Claremorris 0-18

Charlestown 1-12

Eoin Horkan 

Aghamore

Nine points from Niall Hurley saw the south Mayo side secure a home semi final with fourteen men  against Charlestown on Saturday evening in Aghamore.

It was the perfect start for Claremorris as Nall Hurley opened the scoring with a long range two point free.The tie was level when the opposition went down the far end raising an orange flag through Gareth O’Donnell from outside the arc.

The side in blue then created two clear cut goal chances both ended up in white flags from Conor McGuinness before Dara Hurley added a second. Moments later Niall raised a third white flag . 

By the ten minute mark the tie had swung again as Paul Towey registered his first long range free before a one-two between him and Matthew Lenehan saw Lenehan firing into the net.

When the quarter hour mark struck Charlestown had a two point gap when Eoin Murphy drove through to fire over the bar.

It was then the turn of the south Mayo side to take control again as Cathal Joyce slotted an effort over before both Hurleys added two pointers Niall from a free and then Dara in between a Towey effort who was having a great battle with Paul Gilmore. 

The last seven minutes of the half belonged to Towey as he added three more to his tally in response Hurley added one final point of the half for his side.

This left the scores level at the break.

Playing with the wind in the second half Claremorris got another ideal start with Mark Maloney finding his range before Ben Crean leveled the tie. The side looking for their third win of the group hit a purple patch with D Hurley,Joyce with a two and Maloney slotting a forty-five before N Hurley finished off this scoring spree.

With their championship on the line and the news from Castlebar being updated all the time. The Sarsfields battled back into the tie led by their sharpshooter Towey  who slotted over frees with his second one resulting in a second yellow to his marker Paul Gimore. 

With four points between the sides going into the last ten minutes it looked like the east Mayo men had all the momentum but a couple of shots from range dropped into the hands of Darragh Fallon. 

Final efforts from Hurley and then Towey put three between the sides. 

With what was the final play of the game Towey broke through and it looked like a goal was on his mind but a fantastic block from James McCormack ensured victory for his side. 

Then the result filtered  through from Castlebar with Kilmeena winning meant they would be heading to relegation semi finals  instead of the quarter finals.

Claremorris:Darragh Fallon;Mark Noonan,Darragh Fitzpatrick,David Slattery;Paul Gimore,James McCormack,David Hurley;David O’Reilly,Conor McGuiness(0-1);Cathal Joyce(0-3 1 2ptf)),Dara Hurley(0-3 1 2pt),Johnny Cummins Jack Noone,Mark Maloney(0-2 1 45),Niall Hurley(0-9 2 2ptfs).

Subs Used:C Gill for David Slattery (17) D Slattery for Cummins (35),C Cassidy for Noone (45),M Macken for O’Reilly (60),J Stretton for Joyce.

Charlestown:Kenneth Brennan;Tadhg Horkan,Ben Conway,Owen Flannery;Tomas Goldrick,Niall Murphy,Jack Corley;Eoin Murphy(0-1),Thomas Holton;Gareth O’Donnell(0-2 1 2p),Paul Towey(0-7 2fs1 2ptf,Ben Crean(0-1);Ruairí Cullen,Conor McArdle,Matthew Lenehan(1-1). 

Subs Used: A Woods for Murphy (21),C Towey for McArdle (48),PJ Dunleavy for Flannery (55)

Referee: Vincent Neary

MOTM 

Niall Hurley 9 points he only put two efforts wide but also set up a couple of scores.

He was a constant thorn in the side of Charlestown.

Other mentions 

Paul Towey: Scoring seven points nto be overlooked did miss a couple of chances which could have changed the game had a great battle with Gilmore.

Paul Gilmore

Even though he got his marching orders Gilmore helped Towey well was at him from the first minute to the last and should be proud of how he defended against one of the county's top forwards