Kildalkey take jhc crown as five see red

Kildalkey produced the required performance to defeat Kilmessan 1-13 to 1-9 in the JHC final at Pairc Tailteann today while in the SHC semi-final Kiltale defeated Dunboyne 2-19 to 0-18 at the same venue. 

The JHC final was generally played in a sporting manner however four players were red-carded by referee Bernard Heaney after a brief row broke out seconds after the final whistle.

Kildalkey's Michael Potterton was sent off in the first-half while two of his colleagues including team captain Cathal Egan and un-used substitute Tommy Masterson,  were shown the red card following the final whistle. Kilmessan's Paddy Keena and Charlie Keena also saw red.

An early goal by Conor Flynn helped Kildalkey to lead 1-8 to 0-6 at the interval with Danny Thynne netting for Kilmessan after the break. 

Kildalkey were greatly helped by a series of outstanding points from Conor Kearney. 

In the closing minutes Kildalkey goalkeeper Stephen Masterson saved a penalty from Kilmessan's Christopher Curtis. Kilmessan pressed forward but Kildalkey held out. 

In the SHC game goals from Peter Durnin and James Kelly helped Kiltale overcome Dunboyne and book their place in the final with Kildalkey due to meet Trim tomorrow to decide who they will meet.