Morrissey’s haul of points guides Sarsfields through

Sarsfields 1-20

Portumna 0-16

 Ivan Smyth at Duggan Park

NIALL Morrissey’s 12 point haul helped Sarsfields progress through to a first semi final in four years. Five-in-a-row chasing St. Thomas’ stand in their way. With the pair enjoying a cracking opening round group tie, Sarsfields will be keen to atone for defeat in that memorable encounter.

This victory was built upon a rock solid defence as they shipped just five second half points with only two of those coming from play. Sarsfields, though not at their imperious best up front, struck over six of the last seven scores to ease home.

Kevin Cooney once more showed why he is considered one of the form players of this year’s championship as he proved an effective outlet up front. In the 20th minute, the full forward latched on to Ian Fox’s sideline cut before offloading to Mark O’Regan to finish to the net with the goal the only score separating these sides for three quarters of this tie.

Central to their success was the excellence of Darren Morrissey, who kept Declan McLaughlin under wraps with the Galway defender producing a timely intervention to prevent his marker from racing through on goal in the 43rd minute. After a mesmerising opening half display, Joe Canning spent more time in the company of ex-county teammate Joseph Cooney in the final period with the Sarsfields man helping to slightly curb the influence of the Portumna sharpshooter.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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