Blackhall issue a warning in SHC with victory over Dunboyne

Blackhall Gaels produced a shock result tonight in Kilmessan when they recorded a 1-15 to 2-9 third round SHC victory over Dunboyne.

Two Niall Smith goals boosted Dunboyne to a 2-6 to 0-8 interval lead in a high-tempo encounter, but it was the Gaels who won and also sent out a clear message about a new force in Meath hurling.

Smith's first goal arrived after only five minutes and the second was in the 21st minute, but had a bit of good fortune about it as Neil Hackett's effort rebounded off the top of the post.

Smith was the quickest to react and he also claimed a point in a profitable opening 30 minutes during which Hackett (two frees), Ciaran McKay (two) and Stephen Moran also sent over.

Blackhall opened the scoring through Shane Whitty from play in the third minute and the county star added five more points (three frees) with John Kelly and Jonathan Meyler also on the mark.

However, it was the second-half that brought the best out of Blackhall as Dunboyne managed three points for 30 minutes.

Graham Dillon managed that for Blackhall with some great points while Stephen Morris rifled to the net at the three-quarter stage.

Dunboyne finished with 14 after Smith picked up a secnd yellow card in added time.

IHC
In the IHC tonight Na Fianna edged out Drumree by 1-14 to 0-14 while Ratoath defeated Gaeil Colmcille by 1-18 to 1-15.