Royals fail Cavan challenge at the death

3-12 1-17

A GOAL with practically the last action of the game from Liam Buchanan gave Cavan victory over their neighbours in a match to mark the official opening of the Ballinlough pitch and facilities on Sunday evening.

Meath fielded close to full strength, with Ronan Jones again partnering Bryan Menton at midfield, while Mickey Newman continued his comeback, scoring two points from the edge of the square.

Mattie McGleenan’s side began the game in determined fashion, posting a goal and three points in the opening 15 minutes. Corner forward Niall Clerkin was on target with the Cavan goal.

Jones eventually got Meath off the mark and the home side were back in the match following a goal from Donal Lenihan.

Cavan, though, finished the half leading 2-5 to 1-5, with Buchanan pouncing for that second goal.

Points from Lenihan (three) and Shane McEntee left it level 1-9 to 2-6 by the 45th minute.

Meath enjoyed a spell of dominance after that and boosted by two points from substitute Ruairi O Coileain they edged three clear. However, just as they had started the game, Cavan finished strongest to snatch victory at the death.