Down notch first win of the campaign

NHL DIVISION 2:

Down 2-16 Kildare 1-14, Newbridge

Goals in either half from Paul Braniff and Conor O'Prey were vital as Down claimed their first win of the current Allianz NFL Division 2 campaign, following a five-point victory at St Conleth's Park, Newbridge.

The visitors led by 1-9 to 0-8 at the interval, but despite the determination of Andy Comerford's side who edged in front thanks to a David Harney goal, Down reclaimed the lead and were strongest in the final quarter.

This game was a tight affair in the opening stages, with the sides tied at 0-8 apiece until a Paul Braniff point edged Down ahead with five minutes remaining in the first half.

Braniff bagged 1-6 in the opening period. His goal arrived in the latter stages of the half, after a sideline cut was sent in, with Braniff finding space to slot the ball to the Kildare net.

Down led by four points at the break, but despite a strong wind assistance, it was Kildare who battled back into contention.

Captain Tony Murphy was introduced for the hosts, and the Celbridge clubman helped inspire a Lilywhite comeback with a brace of points.

Niall O'Muineachain was also on target with a fine score, and coupled with Harney's goal the hosts edged in front.

However, Down replied immediately with O'Prey netting their second goal, and although Murphy equalised with his third point, Down soon hit a purple patch.

The visitors hit seven unanswered points to push 2-16 to 1-12 ahead in the closing ten minutes.

David Kennedy and Chris Bonus kept Kildare in touch late on with points, but they were unable to find a goal which they craved, as Down held out for their first win.