Carlow, Lilywhites advance

KILDARE and Carlow progressed to the Christy Ring Cup semi-finals after Division 2B victories over Derry and London on Saturday.

Things aren’t as clear cut in Division 2A. Meath and Westmeath top the table on five points with just one round of fixtures to play.

Goals from Ronan Whelan and Derek McNicholas helped the Lake County to a 2-14 to 0-11 victory over Mayo in Castlebar, drawing level with the Royals who had a free weekend. Kerry, are one point behind Westmeath after a 2-21 to 2-11 victory over Down in Tralee and face the Lakesiders in a winner take all game next weekend.

Carlow face into their last four game without marksman, Des Murphy after he picked up a red card in the dying moments of their win over Derry (2-15 to 3-9).

In the Group’s other game Kildare came from behind to beat London 0-24 to 1-11 in Clane and advance to the knockout stages. London were 1-8 to 0-9 clear at half-time with Fergus McMahon hitting the half’s only goal.

Free-taker Billy White kept Kildare in touch and despite having defender Richie Hoban sent-off, the Lilywhites began to up the tempo. The home side held out to notch their third win in four Group 2B games to remain top after Mark Moloney put them ahead. .

Kerry put visitors Down to the sword in their vital Christy Ring Cup 2A game played at a blustery Austin Stack Park Tralee.

The precocious Shane Brick once more displayed his artistry and unerring accuracy hitting 15 points.