Stabannon book league final spot

STABANNON FECHINS

THE odd goal in seven proved decisive for Stabannon Parnells as the Louth kingpins booked their place in the Division 1 League final with a home semi-final win over St Fechin’s.

In humid conditions the home side got off to an ideal start when they were awarded a penalty, which Danielle Sharkey dispatched.

The Fechins responded well and when a long range effort from Hayley McDonnell dropped to the net, they were right back in the game.

St Fechins managed to take the lead, kicking tthree consecutive points from McGlew and McCullough (2) , but two further goals ensured that Stabannon, the pre-match favourites, adjourned with a 3-3 to 1-5 lead at the break.

St Fechins ladies got off to an excellent start in the second half, with Rachel Kinch blasting

REFEREE: Noel Mullaney (Monaghan). a penalty to the back of the net and it got worse for Stabannon when Anne Marie Lynch was sent off on a straight red immediately after the spot kick was converted.

The senior newcomers had a sping in their step now and Finch wrested back the lead, scoring a point from a free, followed by another tremendous goal from McDonnell after great interception from Jenny Mulroy.

But Stabannon are the champions for a reason and they fought back scoring 1-2 without reply to take a one-point lead.

Haughney levelled it up again, but Stabannon kicked four points without reply to book a final date with Geraldines. STABANNON: Rachel McNally 1-3, Grace Rogers, 0-4, Amy Malone 1-0, Aine McGee 0-1, Danielle Sharkey 2-0, Carol Cluskey 0-1.

ST Fechins: Rachel Kinch 1-4, Hayley McDonnell 2-0, Catherine McGlew 0-2, Louise McCullough 0-2, Hazel Haughney 0-1. Subs: Anna Redmond for McEvoy, Rebecca Howell for McCullough, Sharon McDermott for McGlew

REFEREE: Tommy McEntaggert.