MEATH RATINGS
Paddy O’Rourke
Had no chance with the goal and apart from that didn’t have a decent shot to deal with all day. His kick-outs were for the most part solid, though a few went wayward. 7
Donal Keogan
Was paired with Ryan Burns and gave the Hunterstown man little scope to settle. Won a few balls he had no right to win and his physical presence was a feature throughout. 8
Mickey Burke
Another to do a great man-marking job and full forward Conor Grimes failed to hit the target over the 70 minutes. Burke was tenacious in the tackle and defended superbly. 8
Daragh Smyth
The championship debutant struggled somewhat in the opening half but picked it up in the second winning some good breaking ball. 6
Padraic Harnan
Was fairly solid throughout as he settled into a defensive role. His distribution was a big improvement on some of his league outings. 7
Donnacha Tobin
Hobbled out of the game in the 49th minute with an injury which will be a concern ahead of the clash with the Dubs. Performed really well up to that point. 7
Alan Douglas
Another championship debutante and this was a real mature display from the Trim man. Tackled and distributed well and got back to cover the space when needed. 7
Harry Rooney
Produced his usual robust display, making one or two spectacular fetches. His pace could be a worry against the Dubs though. 7
Cian O’Brien
Scored a point late on and overall can be well satisfied with his first championship match. Started to impose himself in the final quarter and will be better for the outing. 7
Cillian O’Sullivan
What a debut for the young Moynalvey man after two frustrating years with injury. Scorer of two points, but it was his general play which marked him out as a star of the future. 9
Andrew Tormey
Accounted for three points but didn’t always make the best use of the possession that came his way. Frustrating to watch as he got involved in things he should be keeping out of. 7
Graham Reilly
Another three points man but it should have been six or seven. His failure to track back resulted in two points for Anthony Williams. 7
Eamon Wallace
Superb throughout the opening half as he contributed four points from play. The Ratoath man was somewhat quieter in the second half but overall was one of Meath’s better players. 8
Dalton McDonagh
Lasted 56 minutes but might have been called ashore earlier after a disappointing outing. Never got to the pace of the game at any stage and was too easily closed down. 6
Michael Newman
Top scorer with seven points Newman converted most that fell his way from placed balls. Failed to find the target from open play and that aspect of his game was disappointing. 7 SUBS: Cathal Finn 5; Bryan McMahon 5.Donal Lenihan, Sean Tobin.