Juniors qualify for county semi-final with win over Swinford
Davitts qualified for the County Junior B semi-final after a hard fought win over a strong Swinford outfit in a very exciting quarter-final in Claremorris on Saturday evening. The final score was 2-15 to 1-12 as both sides gave their all in tropical conditions. A storming last quarter display by Davitts ensured victory in a game that was a fine advertisement for junior football.
Swinford were the better side in the opening half and led by 1-8 to 1-6 at the break. Davitts first half scorers were Seamus Roche (1-2), Darren Connolly (0-2), Tommy Clarke and Mark Ronayne.
Swinford extended their lead to 1-10 to 1-6 before Davitts moved into top gear. Excellent points from Tommy Clarke, Liam Noone, Seamus Roche and Darren Connolly (2) put Davitts in the lead before sub Sean Waldron got on the end of a fantastic move, started by corner back Brian Clarke, to bury the ball in the back of the Swinford net. Further points from Darren Connolly, Liam Noone and the outstanding Seamus Roche ensured the victory.
Davitts had terrific performers throughout the pitch, especially in the second half. Midfielders John Heneghan and Tommy Mitchell took control of that sector and there were top class displays from Michael Waldron, Tommy Clarke, John Costello, Liam Noone, Darren Connolly, Richie Kilkenny and man of the match Seamus Roche.
Davitts: David Mitchell, William Freeley, Michael Waldron, Brian Clarke, Tommy Clarke (0-2), Mark Ronayne (0-1), John Costello, John Heneghan, Tommy Mitchell, Liam Noone (0-2), Seamus Roche (1-4), Cathal Hennelly, Darren Connolly (0-6), Padraig Mangan, Richie Kilkenny. Subs used: Sean Waldron (1-0), JP Kirrane.
