Surprise Cup win for Kildare - round-up

Despite having left half-forward Rory Dunbar sent off, Carlow fought back to grab a 1-11 to 2-8 draw with Wicklow in today's opening game of the 2006 Christy Ring Cup.

Eoin Garvey's Barrowsiders, beaten semi-finalists in last year's competition, were on a revenge mission in Arklow as the hosts beat them in the League 11 weeks ago.

The sides were level on seven separate occasions this afternoon in a game neither deserved to lose.

A snappy goal from full-forward John Keogh had Wicklow 1-04 to 0-06 in front at the break.

The second half saw Dunbar dismissed and the home side, under new manager Brendan Cuddihy, bag a second goal through substitute Denis Moran. But it was not enough as a Damien Roberts green flag and a late levelling point from substitute Barry Cox gave Carlow a share of the spoils.

In the other Group 2B tie, played in Tralee, a David Harney goal and a hatful of points from Billy White helped Kildare to a surprise 1-16 to 2-12 win over Kerry.

White hit 0-07 in the first half to help Kildare turn around with a 0-10 to 0-07 lead. Skipper Michael Conway landed all bar one of Kerry's points in the opening period, but the Lilywhites were not to be denied.