Double success for Dubs over Blue Stars

There were wins for both the Dublin senior hurlers and footballers this afternoon in the Naomh Mearnog grounds in Portmarnock, as former Fermanagh half-forward Rory Gallagher failed to line out for the Blue Stars amid rumours of his potential inclusion on future Dublin panels.

Dublin’s hurlers notched an impressive 0-17 to 1-10 defeat of the Blue Stars in the opener with Ballyboden’s David Curtin hitting over 0-5, with three points from open play.

Centre forward Connie Ring of recent Dublin champions Craobh Chiaráin pointed 0-3 (1f) for the Blue Stars with Conal Keaney, a club mate of Curtin’s, notching 0-2.

With Gallagher’s absence, local star Shane Ryan, a member of last year’s Irish Compromise Rules squad, took over at half-forward and Ballyboden’s Derek Byrne deputised at full forward to great effect, hitting the net twice in a tally of 2-2 for the Blue Stars footballers.

He could not prevent a win for Tommy Lyons’ seniors, however, as Vincent’s Tomás Quinn did his National League chances some good with a goal and four points, three of which were from play.

Raymie Gallagher and Senan Connell both hit 0-3 for the Stars with Jason Sherlock (0-1) also on the score sheet.

Dublin’s 2-13 to 2-12 victory was sealed with a point apiece from dual star Keaney, Darren Homan and half-forward Tomas Mulligan.