By Donna O'Connor

After last week's disappointing result against Kildare, Down Camogs were out to prove themselves and this was unfortunate for the visitors Carlow.

Within the first opening mins Mairin McAleenan was set up by Lisa McCrickard to provide the first point of the game. But Carlow's Gillian Noal hit back by scoring an excellent striking goal from the side line. Down continued to attack with a further two points, with Carlow scoring another from a free which was given against Jenny Braniff. But Down's strong defence hit back at the Carlow team by excellent passes between Debra Kelland and Clare McGovern. Downs Teresa McGowan and Orla Maginn were tested to the limited but by keeping level heads they also prevent Carlow from scoring. Further scores for Down came from Catherine McGourity , Karen Mulholland.

At this half time stage Down were leading 0:9 to Carlow 1:1.

Down came out in the second half, playing nothing but hard ball by making the most of the opportunities that were provided at the expense of Carlow. Down gave a way 1 point but it was quite some time later before the homesiders made another error. Mary Gilmore provided the ultimate goal which secured the newly founded confidence within the Down team. Further scores came from Brenda Gallagher, Ann Morgan and Jenny Branniff.

With everything to their advantage Down ended the game with 1:22 to Carlow's 1:02.

Down seemed to resurrect themselves from last week's performance against Kildare. They provided a fantastic game of play but the score should have been higher if it had not been for Carlow's strong dependable goalkeeper Lindsay Condell.

Next week Down Camogs take on Roscommon. On paper this should be another win for Down but as its away, an early start for all will be involved so we will wait and see.