Champs Ratoath off to flyer despite absentees

INTER-COUNTY duo Eamonn and Joey Wallace were notable absentees as Meath champions Ratoath made an impressive start in the defence of their title with a facile 5-21 to 2-6 victory over Nobber.

Former county player Brian Farrell, who was one of the stars in Nobber’s IFC win 12 months ago, is now the Ratoath manager having taken charge following the shock departure of Davy Byrne in the aftermath of that maiden title success.

Bryan McMahon accounted for 2-5 for Ratoath, who trailed to an early goal from Jordan Morris.

Summerhill, beaten finalists for the past three years, hit four unanswered points from Barry Dardis (two) Diarmuid McCabe and Conor Frayne to defeat neighbours Moynalvey 0-17 to 1-12.

Inspirational

With Cillian O’Sullivan in inspirational form, Moynalvey led by six points at one stage in the opening half but loosened their grip following an injury to Pádraic Harnan at the end of the opening quarter.

Former Na Fianna player Michael Deegan marked his return to championship action for Dublin-border side Donaghmore/ Ashbourne with seven points (all frees) as the team managed by his dad Mick defeated Navan O’Mahonys 1-12 to 0-12.

Dunboyne, who were champions in 2018, could be a force again this year after recording an impressive 4-12 to 0-9 win over Dunshaughlin. Donal Lenihan bagged 2-4 for the winners.

A hat-trick of goals from Fiachra Ward helped Wolfe Tones to a 4-11 to 0-12 victory over Curraha. The losers played most of the second half with 14 men following the dismissal of James McEntee.