Kilcoo Triumphs Over Loughmacory to Secure Spot in Ulster Club SFC Semi-Final

Basio badr

ago 8 hours

Kilcoo Triumphs Over Loughmacory to Secure Spot in Ulster Club SFC Semi-Final

Kilcoo secured a decisive victory over Loughmacrory in the Ulster Club Senior Football Championship, advancing to the semi-finals. The match showcased intense competition, with both teams making notable contributions.

Match Overview

Kilcoo opened the scoring through midfielder Anthony Morgan. However, Loughmacrory quickly countered with a two-point score from Pauraic Meenagh, followed by a free from Ruairi McCullagh.

Kilcoo Responds

The Magpies displayed their strength, responding with five consecutive points. Paul Devlin initiated the scoring sequence with a free, followed by two rapid goals from Shealan Johnston. Darryl Branagan and Ryan Johnston further extended the lead.

Half-Time Breakdown

Kilcoo: 0-7
Loughmacrory: 0-5

Despite their dominance, Kilcoo led by only two points at half-time, missing opportunities to increase their advantage.

Second Half Highlights

Devlin opened the second half with a two-point kick, followed by another from captain Darryl Branagan, extending Kilcoo’s lead to five. Eoin McElholm, previously struggling against tight defense, finally scored after 35 minutes. However, Loughmacrory responded with points from Meenagh and Cathaoir Gallagher, narrowing the gap to three.

Kilcoo’s Strong Finish

Just as Loughmacrory gained momentum, Kilcoo unleashed four more unanswered points. Shealan Johnston contributed an exceptional two-point kick, reinforcing Kilcoo’s dominance. Ceilum Doherty also added a score before a crucial chance for Devlin. After a rapid play, he unfortunately blasted a shot over the goal.

Loughmacrory aimed to rally, with McElholm finally scoring after a long drought. Gallagher and Gareth Donaghy added more points, narrowing the deficit to four as the match approached additional time.

Final Moments and Outcome

In the dying minutes, Sean Og McCusker sealed the victory for Kilcoo, putting the team one step closer to the Ulster final. The match underscored Kilcoo’s potential as they look forward to the next challenge in the championship.