Armagh and Roscommon through to Nicky Rackard semi-finals

Nicky Rackard Cup

Armagh 4-24 London 2-21 / Louth 1-8 Roscommon 0-17 / Fingal 1-18 Tyrone 2-9

Armagh secured a home semi-final draw in two weeks for this year’s Nicky Rackard Cup after they defeated London by 4-24 to 2-21 at Crossmaglen following a cracking game that required extra-time.

The Orchard County were on the cusp of defeat in normal time when they trailed by three points but a last gasp goal by Fiachra Bradley ensured the game went to extra-time.

There, the home side were outstanding and completely outplayed the exiles, scoring two goals courtesy of Paul McCormickan.

Ryan Gaffney at right half-forward earned the man-of-the-match award for a fabulous display while Paul Gaffney at full-back, Frances McMullan and Barry Breen in attack were equally impressive.

Roscommon also secured a home semi-final in two weeks when they turned in a highly impressive performance to see off the challenge of Louth at Dundalk by 0-17 points to 1-8 today.

The Connacht men were in total control during the opening half and led by 0-9 to no score at one stage. David Dolan was excellent on the frees, knocking over four during the opening 20 minutes (and finishing with a tally of 0-7) while corner forward Niall Kilroy swung over three beauties in that spell.

Louth registered a much needed goal coming up to the interval and at half time they trailed by 0-8 points, 0-14 to 1-2.

Even though they had the help of the wind for the second half, Louth struggled in the face of strong Roscommon defending and points by Padraig Kelly, Kevin Kenneally and Mervin Connaughton made the game safe.

In the other game, Fingal racked up a good win over Tyrone at Swords, running out 1-18 to 2-9 victors which means the latter exit this years campaign while the North Dublin side qualify for a quarter final next weekend.