Late Lohan free secures a reprieve for Ballygar

Ballygar 0-7

Annaghdown 1-4

 A late Stephen Lohan free ensured Ballygar a share of the spoils in this Junior A hurling semi-final last Sunday as these two teams will return to fight another day.

There was some controversy at the finish when uncertainty reigned over extra-time, but all in attendance in Kenny Park were in agreement that a replay was the fairest result.

Annaghdown will feel slightly aggrieved as they will question the late decision against them that Martin O’Neill’s pass in defence to Ronan Creaven was a throw-ball. But with the number of their missed chances throughout the hour, they won’t be questioning the opportunity of a second chance to book a final spot against Craughwell.

The incessant rain made conditions miserable on a cold Sunday afternoon and even allowed question marks over whether the game would take place. But the surface held up well despite some water patches and while the quality was limited, both outfits put in a credible effort.

Eric Walsh’s run down the right flank for the opening Ballygar point in the fifth minute seemed to set the tone nicely but the game’s next score wouldn’t arrive again until just before half-time. While control of the sliothar and elements were challenging, some of the shooting (especially by Annaghdown) was very disappointing.

Johnny Comer threatened a goal in the 23rd minute only for a crucial interception from Ballygar full-back Paul Mahony but Comer eventually opened his account six minutes afterwards with a placed ball to level affairs.

DJ Nolan responded immediately with a long-range free to restore Ballygar’s advantage. But after Colm Monaghan and Christy Burke nearly sliced open the Ballygar defence, Comer’s 65 sent the teams in level at 0-2 apiece at half-time.

The wides count was seven against three against Annaghdown but Ballygar had let other chances slip. That being said, the full-back lines for both teams were hurling well with Annaghdown’s O’Neill and Ballygar’s Mahony catching the eye.

And even though the scoring was slow, the standard improved during the second period including the latter stages and Lohan’s equaliser.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.