News in Sport Blog
Championship Overview
Gaelic Football
All Ireland Round 1
Westmeath continued their remarkable championship run with a dramatic extra-time victory over Cavan in Mullingar. Fresh from their Leinster triumph, the hosts looked set for elimination when Cavan opened up a six-point lead during extra time, but Mark McHugh spurred his side to produce a stunning finish. Kevin O'Sullivan struck a crucial late goal, while John Heslin kept the scoreboard ticking as Westmeath outscored Cavan 1-7 to 0-0 in the closing stages to snatch a memorable comeback win.
Armagh booked their place in Round 2A with a composed victory over Ulster rivals Derry at the Athletic Grounds. Derry struggled to make the most of their opportunities throughout, while a superb Tiernan Kelly goal proved a key moment of the match. Kieran McGeeney's side established control before the break and never looked in serious danger despite Derry's efforts to stay in touch.
Louth produced one of the shocks of the weekend with a brilliant second-half display to defeat Dublin at Croke Park. A month after their Leinster Championship loss to the Dubs, the Wee County exacted revenge in style. Trailing at the break, Louth transformed the contest after half-time with a clinical attacking display, firing four goals to claim their first championship victory over Dublin since 1973.
Mayo survived a stirring Monaghan comeback to secure their place in Round 2A after an enthralling encounter in Clones. Andy Moran's side appeared to be cruising after building a commanding advantage, but Monaghan roared back in the second half with goals helping to ignite the fightback. The Farney men threw everything at Mayo in the closing stages, but the visitors held their nerve to withstand the late pressure and edge a thrilling contest by a single point.
Westmeath 1-31 | 3-21 Cavan (AET)
Armagh 1-18 | 1-13 Derry
Dublin 1-24 | 4-18 Louth
Monaghan 2-20 | 1-24 Mayo
Hurling
Christy Ring Cup Final
Derry finally got their hands on the Christy Ring Cup after a thrilling victory over Kerry at Croke Park. Having fallen short in previous finals, the Oak Leaf County produced a clinical attacking display when it mattered most. Goals proved decisive throughout an entertaining contest, with Derry’s Connor Melaugh landing 2-2 on their path to victory.
Derry 3-24 | 3-19 Kerry
Nicky Rackard Cup Final
New York continued their remarkable rise in hurling by claiming the Nicky Rackard Cup with victory over Tyrone. The Exiles built a strong platform through their sharp shooting and crucial goals, opening up a sizeable lead before Tyrone mounted a second-half comeback. Despite the Red Hands' efforts to close the gap, New York held firm to capture the Nickey Rackard to add to last years Lory Meagher triumph.
New York 2-22 | 2-17 Tyrone
Lory Meagher Cup Final
Longford were crowned Lory Meagher Cup champions after overcoming Leitrim in Croke Park. The Midlanders made the stronger start and never relinquished their grip on the contest, with a first-half goal helping them establish control. Leitrim battled hard to stay in contention, but Longford's discipline and accuracy proved decisive as they powered their way to a deserved cup triumph.
Longford 1-18 | 1-13 Leitrim
League of Ireland Soccer
Dundalk continued their impressive campaign with a hard-fought victory over Derry City at Oriel Park. Leo Gaxha gave the hosts the perfect start before Ebube Arubi opened his Oriel Park account with what proved to be the decisive goal. Derry battled back and reduced the deficit late on, but Dundalk showed their resilience to see out the contest and claim another valuable three points.
Shelbourne were forced to settle for a draw after a frustrating evening against Galway United at Tolka Park. The visitors looked on course for a notable away win after taking the lead, but Sean Boyd's side eventually found a response through substitute Frantz Pierrot. Despite enjoying the majority of possession and chances, the champions were unable to find a winner as Galway left Dublin with a share of the spoils.
Bohemians climbed into second place in the table with an impressive away victory over Sligo Rovers. Alan Reynolds' men were clinical in attack throughout, establishing control of the contest with three goals and limiting Sligo's opportunities to mount a comeback. The hosts did find the net, but Bohs remained in command to continue their strong run of form.
Dundalk 2-1 Derry City
Shelbourne 1-1 Galway United
Sligo Rovers 1-3 Bohemians