Meath Hill 1-12 Drumbaragh 0-05
A depleted Drumbaragh’s run in the Corn na Bóinne came to an abrupt end on Saturday afternoon against Meath Hill.
Meath Hill have been in red-hot scoring form this year, scoring 6-14 against Nobber, and they started in the same vein in the opening 10 minutes. The ‘Hill registering the first 5 points of the contest.
With top-scorer Conor Lynch unavailable, Drumbaragh struggled to convert precious possession into much-needed scores, kicking six wides in the first half with the wind at their backs. Jimmy Corcoran eventually stemmed the flow on the 18th minute, with his side’s first point.
A red card for the hosts gave Drumbaragh hope, but the struggles continued. Killian Byrne limped off, to be replaced by Peter Carry giving some much-needed stability in defence. The visitors second point of the game coming on the 32nd minute through Shea McManus to make it a three-point game at the break.
Meath Hill started the second-half, as they did the first, registering three scores in the first three attacks (1-02). All momentum with the ‘Hill as they powered on. The game was over by the 17th minute, John D Smith, rather harshly given his marching orders.
The hosts were well on their way to the Corn na Bóinne Final, as things went from bad to worse for Drumbaragh, who full-back James McGovern to injury.
Regardless of the setbacks, Drumbaragh battled on and defended well in the final quarter. The introduction of John Morrissey for his seasonal reappearance steadied the ship, adding that much needed experience to a young side. That battling spirit was rewarded, Corcoran pointed either side of a Shea McManus effort to bring some respectability to the scoreboard.
Our cup run complete, with three promising wins over Longwood, St.Michaels and Moynalvey prior to this fixture. Fair play to Meath Hill on the day, by far the better team, and we wish them well in the final.
For Drumbaragh, the focus turns to the league on Friday night in Dunshaughlin, where we look to welcome back a host of regulars and get back to winning ways.
Drumbaragh Scorers:
J.Corcoran 0-03, S.McManus 0-02
