Kevin’s rally to edge entertaining derby

ST KEVINS STABANNON PARNELLS 1-11 0-12

ST Kevins needed a late rally to see off the challenge of Stabannon Parnells and snatch a place in the last four of the Kevin Mullen Shield.

In a well-contested local derby at Philipstown, the reigning Junior Champions looked to be in danger when they trailed by two points entering the final quarter. However, the hosts hit back with the last four points of the game to secure the victory and just like in last year’s Junior Final it was an injury-time point from Patrick Clarke that sealed the victory.

It was St Kevins who had the better of the first half and a goal from Paul Duff gave them a bit of breathing space at the break as they went in leading by 1-6 to 0-5.

Stabannon came out fighting in the third quarter and a series of well-taken points, including efforts from Aonghus Giggins and Daniel Bannon, saw them ease into a 0-12 to 1-7 lead in the final quarter.

It looked as if Parnells were on their way to victory at that stage, but the Kevins responded in impressive fashion. Scores from Seanie Crosbie and Liam Boylan levelled the game and Aidan Craven edged his side in front before Clarke struck just before the final whistle to make sure his side reached the semi-final.