Westmeath hit back to ensure survival

Westmeath turned in an inspirational second-half performance to maintain their Division 2 status at Cusack Park, Mullingar, yesterday.

Westmeath looked doomed for relegation when they trailed Derry 0-8 to 0-1 after 30 minutes. However, a dramatic comeback, aided by the sending off of Derry’s Dermot McBride in the 40th minute, ensured survival for Pat Flanagan’s side.

Derry, who despite this defeat, also maintained their Division 2 status, led by seven points after half an hour thanks to four points from the lively Paddy Bradley and some good scores by Ryan Scott, Barry McGoldrick and Sean Leo McGoldrick.