Maguire proves the ace as Louth’s good form continues

LOUTH continued their good form from 2010, beating Wicklow in an entertaining O’Byrne Cup quarter-final (2-13 to 1-12).

Peter Fitzpatrick’s men are intent building on last year’s heroics and seem to have put the bitter disappointment of their controversial provincial final defeat behind them. Derek Maguire was the Louth hero, pouncing for two first-half goals as they led 2-6 to 0-6. He was also fouled for a penalty but Shane Lennon’s kick was saved by Wicklow goalkeeper John Flynn.

Tony Hannon kept his side in contention with some good points from placed balls and when Seanie Furlong struck the Louth net, the margin was down to two, but Louth showed plenty of composure to see out the game. They play UCD, who accounted for Carlow in a very competitive outing 0-13 to 0-10. Luke Dempsey’s men led 0-10 to 0-9 with 10 minutes remaining, JJ Smith having kicked six points, five of which came from frees.

But UCD always had a greater scoring threat from the likes of Longford man John Heslin, Rob Kelly of Kildare and Laois player John O’Loughlin and they finished strongly to advance.

Meanwhile, Westmeath had four points to spare over DIT (1-9 to 0-8). The critical moment in the game came in the first-half when David Glennon goaled from the penalty spot. His first effort had been saved but the referee ordered that the kick be re-taken and the Tyrellspass man capitalised on his good fortune.