Early goals pave way for Graiguecullen

Portlaoise, Graiguecullen, Arles-Kilcruise and Arles-Killeen will contest the Laois SFC semi-finals.

Graiguecullen saw off the challenge of neighbours Killeshin. They got off to a great start with early goals from Mark Timmons and Mark Doogue, and led 2-7 to 0-5 at half-time. Killeshin came roaring back in the second half, and a goal in injury-time got them within two, but Graigue held on to win 2-13 to 2-11.

Portlaoise are also safely through after a tough encounter with O’Dempsey’s. They took control early on thanks to fortuitous goal, but Conor Meredith hit back for O’Dempsey’s and they only trailed by one at half time, 1-7 to 1-6.

Portlaoise keeper Michael Nolan saved a penalty in the second half and his side opened up a six point lead, and despite an O’Dempsey’s rally, they won 1-17 to 1-13.

Arles-Kilcruise are also into the last four after their 1-11 to 0-7 win over Mountmellick. But it came at a cost as Ross Munnelly picked up a straight red card.

In the other quarter-final played last Wednesday night, Arles-Killeen had too much for The Heath, as they eased to a 3-9 to 0-8 win.

In the relegation play-offs, Portarlington beat The Rock, and in the other game, Emo beat Timahoe 3-12 to 1-14.