Griffins inspire Clann na nGael to provincial victory

A stunning save from Eoin Griffin and a powerhouse display from Daragh Griffin inspired Clann na nGael to a 3-8 to 1-9 Leinster Club JFC quarter-final victory over Westmeath champions Ballynacargy at St Loman's Park Mullingar this afternoon.

Despite playing with the benefit of a strong wind at their backs Clann na nGael were rocked by the concession of an early goal. However Daragh Griffin quickly got his side back in front with a goal as the Athboy/Rathcairn side led by 1-6 to 1-1 at the break.

Using their pace and ball retention to good effect Clann na nGael stretched their advantage after the resumption, but Ballynacargy were worthy foes and they battled back to close the deficit to 1-5 to 1-5 at the three-quarters stage.

Then came Eoin Griffin's time to shine as Cathal Burke burst through the Clann na nGael rearguard and fired goalwards, but the visitors goalkeepe made a magnificent save and two minutes later Daragh Griffin bagged his second goal to make it 2-8 to 1-5 – a six-point swing because of the Griffins.

Ballinacargy did claw their way back as Thomas Doyle had a goal disallowed for the Meath champions.

As the game ticked into injury-time Ballynacargy closed the gap to two points, but as they pushed for a winning goal they were hit on the break as Eamonn O Donnachada raced clear and was then on the end of a fine move to palm his side's third goal and secure their passage to the last four.

 

Read Fergal Lynch's full match report and interview with winning manager Tom Hanley in Tuesday evening's Meath Chronicle.