Longwood march on as Ratoath are vanquished

There was no shortage of spirit or fight shown by Longwood when when they defeated Ratoath 3-14 to 1-17 in a highly entertaining SHC clash at Dunshaughlin.

The gripping contest ebbed and flowed all evening but in the end the 'Wood did the business with Ryan Moore firing home an injury time goal that sealed the win. 

With two wins and one draw Longwood can look forward to participating in the knock-out phase and who knows what might happen there. The way they are playing Ryan O'Dwyer's charges are capable of defeating anybody. 

Anthony Healy showed the way for them in this contest with 1-11, 1-9 from frees. Jim Dorran and Moore also hit the net for the 'Wood who trailed at the break 0-8 to 1-8. 

Ratoath were in front for spells but they were unable to contain Longwood's desire, especially in the frantic closing stages. Niall Murphy finished to the net just before the break to bag Ratoath's goal and put them ahead at the interval. Podge O'Hanrahan was also a big player for them firing over eight points from frees with Sean O'Hanrahan hitting five from play but they couldn't contain their fired up opponents.  

The sides were level with normal time almost up but Moore's goal proved decisive as Longwood's march continues. Referee Stephen Masterson let the play flow and that helped to contribute to a rip-roaring contest. 

SEE MATCH REPORT IN NEXT ISSUE OF THE MEATH CHRONICLE