McLoughlin makes difference for outsiders
The North Mayo side made the running all through, and were full value for their 1-13 to 0-14 win, with county star Kevin McLoughlin shooting late scores to seal victory.
Breaffy, who were odds-on favourites to advance to the last four, were never allowed to get into their stride with the O’Shea brothers, Aidan, Seamus and Conor, all peripheral figures for long spells. The eventual winners led at the break by 1-6 to 0-3 with Darren McHale netting.
Breaffy came roaring back into contention during the third quarter with points from Tommy O’Reilly (3), Aidan O’Shea (2), Peter Dravins, Robbie Fadden and Alan Durcan to draw level.
It looked at that stage like Knockmore were fading fast but they got their second wind and finished strongly with scores from Ger Gaughan (2) and McLoughlin (2).
Meanwhile, Garrymore set up a semi-final with holders Castlebar Mitchels after a narrow but fully deserved 1-14 to 1-12 win over Charlestown.
Mayo forward Enda Varley was the star of the show, shooting four points, as Charlestown badly missed the services of injured county midfielder Tom Parsons.
The sides were evenly-matched all through, and level at the halfway mark (1-6 apiece).
Garry’ made the early running but Charlestown hit back with a fine goal from Patrick Lenehan.
David Dolan hit the Charlestown net on 11 minutes in response, and it was tit-for-tat for the rest of the evening.
Garry’ did race ahead again after the restart with three quick-fire points from Mark Tierney (2) and Enda Varley, but they were reeled back in by Colm Maye (who shot seven points from frees) and the excellent Jack Reilly. In a frantic finish, Martin Maloney popped up to land the insurance score for the South Mayo side.
Elsewhere, champions Castlebar Mitchels proved too strong for Aghamore, running out 2-12 to 0-7 winners. Barry Moran and Neil Douglas (penalty) scored their goals.
The holders will face Garrymore while Ballintubber, who booked their place in the last four with a 1-14 to 0-9 victory over Ballaghaderreen, meet Knockmore.
