Four Roads stay on course for six in-a-row

Four Roads remain on course to claim their sixth county SHC title in succession, but they must wait to learn who their opponents in the October 13 final will be.

The defending champions kept a late Athleague rally at bay to prevail 1-20 to 2-14 in the first of Saturday’s semi-finals in Athleague.

Tom Reddingon’s 23rd minute goal kept Athleague in contention but Enda Rogerson goaled on the stroke of half time to hand the Tisrara men a 1-13 to 1-6 lead.

Early points in the second half from Robbie Fallon hinted at an Athleague comeback but the introduction of David Dolan steadied the ship for Four Roads as the substitute hit three points in-a-row.Eight points separated the sides approaching injury-time and Reddington’s second goal and points from Cormac Kelly and Peter Leahy, were not enough to deny Four Roads.

A late Gerry Fallon free earned Oran a draw, 1-13 apiece, against Tremane in the other semi-final.

Tremane were 1-6 to 0-6 ahead at the break following Seán Mahony’s 25th minute goal. But Cathal Kenny, who scored 1-8, hauled Oran back into contention with a 42nd minute goal.

Tremane led by three points with eight minutes left but Kenny, Thomas Featherston and Fallon landed points to force a draw.