Minor Hurlers defeat Westmeath

By Patrick Murphy, Down GAA Hurling PRO

Down minor hurlers (U-18) have begun training for their Ulster League campaign. On Saturday they recorded a 3-8 to 1-8 victory away to Westmeath in Kinnegad.  Down opened the scoring and dominated the first half to lead at half time 1-7 to 0-4. 

Down were not as urgent in the second half and Westmeath began to eat into the lead.  It was however the two second half goals that kept Down in the ascendancy through out. 

The team was very strong down the centre of the park with Warrenpoint’s Higgins and Maxwell starring.

Selector Willy Mageen was impressed with the display.  He pointed to the full forward line as being the stars of the match.  The man of the match was the corner forward Courtney just ahead of Fowler at centre half back.  On the day everyone’s stick work was excellent and both players had the physical presence to make the difference.  Courtney played for the other forwards and caused problems round the square for the goals.  His personal tally of 1-1 was just reward for his efforts. 

Team: D Ennis, T McManus, N. Fowler P Keith, D. Ennis, A. Clarke (all Ballycran)
D. McManus (Ballygalget) G. Courtney S. Courtney(both Newry Shamrocks)
A. Higgins K. Maxwell, (both Warrenpoint) S. Conlon, A O Prey  (Portaferry)
P.ONeill (Ballyvarley), P McAleenan (Leitrim)

Subs Used:
D Grant, J Mc Dermott N. Mullan