Allianz Hurling League Division 2A: Offaly 3-25, Meath 3-09
Offaly began their 2021 season with a big win over Meath in the Allianz Hurling League Division 2A at Pairc Tailteann, Navan.
Though it’s early days yet, Michael Fennelly’s side displayed great urgency and determination on their way to an emphatic victory. Next up for the Faithful County is a Round 2 fixture at home to Kerry next Sunday, with The Kingdom enjoying a big Round 1 success over Down.
The key period for Offaly was the ‘second quarter’, as they took over completely and outscored their opponents by 1-11 to 0-1.
Early on, some poor wides meant Offaly didn’t build on a classy Oisin Kelly goal and Meath led by 0-6 to 1-2 after 17 minutes.
From then on, though, Offaly were the dominant side, with a series of well taken scores from several players including Brian Duignan, Ross Ravenhill, Eoghan Cahill, Leon Fox, Brian Watkins, Ben Connelly and Liam Langton. The second goal was netted by Adrian Hynes in the 24th minute after the Meath keeper saved Oisin Kelly’s shot.
The second half was straightforward for Offaly, with the only disappointment being the concession of three goals to James Kelly, Mark O’Sullivan and Jack McGowan. Other than that, the back line will be content with the concession of only nine points, while Ross Ravenhill and Leon Fox controlled midfield.
In addition to a third goal finished to the net by Shane Kinsella, Liam Langton and Eoghan Cahill were the main second half scorers for Offaly
Offaly Scorers: Eoghan Cahill 0-13 (9f, 2s); Liam Langton 0-5; Oisin Kelly, Adrian Hynes, Shane Kinsella 1-0 each; Brian Duignan 0-2; Brian Watkins, Ben Conneely, Leon Fox (f), Ross Ravenhill, Jason Sampson 0-1 each.
OFFALY: Conor Clancy; Joey Keenaghan, Ciaran Bucke, Paddy Delaney; Brian Watkins, Ben Conneely, Killian Sampson; Ross Ravenhill, Leon Fox; Shane Kinsella, Eoghan Cahill, Liam Langton; Oisin Kelly, Adrian Hynes, Brian Duignan.
Subs Used: Damien Egan, Paddy Rigney, John Murphy, Jason Sampson, Eimhin Kelly, Shane Dooley, David Nally.
By Offaly PRO Sun 9th May
