Staunton ensures Mayo a place in semi-final draw

CORA STAUNTON scored 1-8 to fire Mayo into the semi-finals of the Suzuki Ladies National Football League in a 4-11 to 1-11 victory over Monaghan at Ballina yesterday.

All four quarter-finals took place over the weekend and Mayo, Meath, Galway and champions Cork will be the teams going into tonight’s open draw for the semi-finals.

Mayo rarely looked in trouble against Monaghan yesterday, with first-half goals from Triona McNicholas and Kelly Colleran giving them a 2-6 to 0-6 half-time lead.

Staunton rifled home her goal early in the second half but the Farney County refused to lie down. A goal by Grainne McNally helped them back into contention and they were within three points midway through the half.

However, Mayo curbed the Monaghan comeback when Michelle McGing slotted home their fourth goal against the run of play.

Niamh Kindlon, with seven points, impressed for Monaghan.

League and championship holders Cork beat Armagh 2-12 to 0-10 at Park Rathineskea in Laois yesterday.

The Rebels led 2-5 to 0-5 at the break, with both goals coming from Nollaig Cleary.

Meath also advanced to the semi-finals following a 2-13 to 1-6 victory over Kerry at Ratoath on Saturday.

Gillian Bennett was the star of the show for Meath as she chalked up 1-9 during the game.

The tie was effectively over at half-time when Meath led 2-9 to 0-4, with Mary Sheridan grabbing the other goal.

Deirdre Corrigan scored a consolation goal for Kerry in the second half.

Galway, who were beaten in last year’s final by Cork, are also through to the semi-finals again following a 0-20 to 1-10 win over Waterford in Mungret on Saturday.

Tipperary beat Limerick 2-10 to 0-8 in a division two quarter-final while Laois beat Longford 6-22 to 1-6 and Sligo saw off Down 2-10 to 2-7.

There were also wins for Laois and Sligo.

In division three there were wins for Wicklow, Leitrim and Clare.