Kelly goal paves way for Longford triumph

Paul Kelly’s cracking 27th minute goal proved the foundation for Longford’s impressive victory against a poor Offaly side in this Allianz Football League Division 3 opening round tie at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park yesterday.

Kelly’s strike left a sharper Longford side leading 1-6 to 0-6 at the break and while Offaly made a bright start to the second half with a great score from Bernard Allen, the hosts stepped up a gear to clock up six points without reply after a tremendous strike from Paul Barden began the purple patch in the 42nd minute.

Offaly sub Willie Mulhall pulled a point back in the 58th minute but the confident Longford side regained the upper hand with three more converted frees from McCormack before Glenn Ryan’s side grabbed a second goal with time running out.