Kiltegan power on to Leinster semi-final

KILTEGAN qualified for the semi-final of their division in the Leinster Hurling League with a good win over the Offaly men at Kiltegan on Saturday.

Despite being under strength because of a heavy local football list Kiltegan still made the most of home advantage.

However, marksmanship was something they knew nothing about Keith Furlong pointed a free to give them an early lead but it was the defence that was keeping then in the game. Padraig Kearney, Barry Cremin, and Gavin Keogh were doing well but the star of the show was Anthony Furlong at wing back. Even after hitting 10 bad wides the home side were still a point in front - 05 to 0-4 at half time.

Ronan Byrne and Dan Kearney were doing well at midfield for Kiltegan but the forwards were still miss-firing and when full forward Joseph Flanagan got through for a goal for the Offaly men progress was looking uncertain.

Points by Anthony and Keith Furlong brought Kiltegan back it to the game; Mark Pierce and Cillien Doyle got on the score sheet and a great save by Ciaran O'Toole kept home hopes alive. However, Keith Mullally was picking off points from frees and play and the game was hanging in the balance.

Then a long range free by Anthony Furlong went all the way to the net and the day was saved.

Ciaran Doyle, Padraig Keogh and John Kehoe also had their moments for Kiltegan while Adrain Keogh's work rate all over the field was another factor in a victory that guarantees them another competitive match in their bid to get Hurling going again in the area.