Wins for Armagh and Donegal in opening round of Nicky Rackard Cup

The hurlers of Armagh and Donegal claimed wins in the opening round of the Nicky Rackard Cup this afternoon.

In Dowdallshill, hosts Louth made the early running but visitors Armagh ran out comfortable 0-20 to 1-8 winners in the end.

Wesley Morrissey propelled the Wee County into an early lead before Armagh took control to claim a 0-9 to 0-6 interval lead.

Although Armagh were reduced to 14 men early after the restart - and conceded the only goal of the contest when an Adrian Wallace effort tied the game in the 40th minute - the Orchard men were strong over the closing 30 minutes.

Louth were held to just two further points with Armagh moving 0-15 to 1-7 ahead as the game entered the final quarter.

The hosts battled on, however Armagh stood firm with goalkeeper Simon Doherty saving a 63rd minute penalty strike from Brian Corcoran.

A first half goal proved key as Donegal beat Roscommon by 1-15 to 0-14 in the competition's other game today.

The Tir Chonaill men were in strong form throughout this Letterkenny clash and led by 1-6 to 0-7 at half-time.