Stalemate in Kenny Park as Beagh caught late on

Beagh 0-14
Liam Mellows 1-11
Cian O’Connell at Kenny Park

THOSE who attended Kenny Park on Sunday afternoon for this crucial Galway SHC encounter departed from Athenry wondering about the actual worth of Beagh and Liam Mellows as parity ultimately prevailed.

It was a strange game. Mellows were poor in the opening period, but thundered into the contest impressively to take a second half lead. Beagh, though, possessed the slicker stickmen and that extra drop of skill ensured there were still plenty of anxious moments late on for Mellows.

Eventually, a Mellows free from Tadhg Haran put the City team level and the match was ended abruptly with only 53 seconds of injury time played. Another day out will surely be of benefit for the two clubs, who each have plenty of questions still to answer.

Initially. there had been so much to admire about Beagh’s composure as their sweet striking and movement had Mellows under pressure. Beagh were hurling in clever fashion and their forward unit were manufacturing chances and taking them too.

By the 18th minute, Beagh had scorched 0-7 to 0-2 ahead and it was a fair and accurate reflection of what was happening. Rory Gantley was using all of his guile in the half back line, making measured clearances alongside Adrian Diviney, who was a solid and commanding presence too.

Further upfield Padraig Landers dashed about seeking involvement, while Kevin Keehan was similarly capable for Beagh. Mellows were in distress and two Haran frees was all they could muster as the South Galwaymen were dictating the pace.

Sharp and stylish, Beagh hit seven points from ten opportunities in 18 minutes, reflecting and underlining their smart efficiency.

Unsurprisingly, that sort of precision and industry dropped when their opponents settled, but it was a reminder of Beagh’s potential and Mellows will certainly be forewarned for the replay.

Before the break, Mellows crucially landed two frees from Haran which trimmed the deficit down to 0-7 to 0-4 at the break. The statistics were worrying for Mellows as apart from the failure to register from play, four points was a sparse return from 11 chances.

Vast improvement was required after the restart, but Mellows’ were far busier and much brighter when the action recommenced. That was chiefly down to the drive of Dean Bruen, John Lee, and David Collins, who bolted the defensive doors. Haran’s influence increased and Mellows were suddenly examining Beagh, who were now being pinned back.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.