A last minute goal by James O’Higgins earned Ballinlough a share of the spoils in this entertaining Division 4 B-League encounter played in blustery conditions in Meath Hill on Sunday morning.
The home side started with the breeze, and used it to their advantage, kicking some fine scores to open up a five point lead at half time, with the scores standing at 1-7 to 1-2. A well taken goal by Niall Farrelly kept the visitors within sight going into the break.
The Reds improved after the restart, as their backs restricted Meath Hill to just 0-2 from play in the second period. The returning James O’Keefe marshalled the young defence around him, with James Baugh especially solid at centre back.
Some great point taking by Oliver Brady and James O’Higgins saw the sides level with just ten minutes to go, before Meath Hill were awarded a penalty after confusion in the Ballinlough area. This was duly converted, and followed up with another point to leave four points in it with just five minutes to go.
However, the ‘Lough kept fighting to the death, and had reduced the deficit to a goal, going into the closing minute. The impressive O’Higgins then popped up to save the draw with a fine finish to the back of the net with the last kick of the game.
Best for Ballinlough on the day were Niall Farrelly, James O’Keefe, Paddy Briody and Shane Smith
The ‘Lough have done well in B-League competitions in the past three to four years, and will be hoping to return to winning ways against Simonstown next weekend.
Ballinlough: K. McGuinness, S. Smith, J. O’Keefe, M. Farrell, J. O’Reilly, J. Baugh, P. Briody, N. Farrelly, K. Beirne, O. Brady, K. Rothwell, L. Gibney, J.O’Higgins, D. Farrelly, J. Tunney. Subs: J. Lydon