Dublin set for showdown with arch rivals Meath

DUBLIN had more than one reason to celebrate yesterday after John O’Leary’s ladies set up a mouth-watering TG4 Leinster senior football final with rivals Meath by beating Kildare 2-18 to 2-9.

Dublin, who are reigning Leinster champions, led by one point at the break against the Lilywhites in St Peregrine’s club grounds. However, it was a brace of goals by Niamh Hurley that effectively fired the Dubs to victory.

The victory was built on solid performances by Denise Masterson and Niamh McEvoy at midfield, while Bernie Finlay also impressed.

St Peregrine’s club player Louise Kidd also carried out Trojan work at her home ground, while Gemma Fay was as reliable as ever. In attack, Louise Kelly tormented the Kildare defence in the second half and Dublin rarely looked in trouble after the break.

Meath needed extra time to beat Laois in Stradbally on Saturday, but they edged out a nervy finish to win by the minimum, 0-14 to 0-13.

Dublin comfortably beat Meath in the opening game of the Leinster round robin section, but the Royals have steadily improved since and will be eager to end Dublin’s dominance in the province.

Reigning All-Ireland ladies champions Galway comfortably advanced to yet another Connacht final against neighbours Mayo by beating Roscommon at Tuam Stadium yesterday, 5-17 to 0-8.

In the Ulster Championship, Tyrone caused somewhat of a surprise, beating Donegal in Irvinestown, 0-13 to 1-7.