Kilmessan blow Gaels away in second-half surge

After making a slow start Kilmessan found their form to defeat Blackhall Gaels 2-17 to 0-11 in the first round of the SHC at Pairc Tailteann this evening.

The reigning champions were sluggest in the opening 30 minutes as a physically stronger Blackhall Gaels set the pace.

Helped by three excellent points from Tommy Coyne Blackhall led 0-8 to 0-6 at the interval. Dermot Carty also made a hefty contribution with five points from placed balls.

The 2013 IHC winners deserved their advantage as they were more adventurous and inventive.

However the second-half revealed a much smarter, alert and ruthless Kilmessan as they fired home goals from Sean Doyle and Nicky Horan to give themselves a platform for success.

Kevin Keena, Kevin O'Reilly and Charlie Keena also contributed excellent points to help last year's Jubilee Cup winners win with plenty to spare.