Drumbaragh are best in North Meath derby (27/05/14)
A large crowd turned out to see this very entertaining game of football at a well appointed Moylagh on a perfect Sunday evening for football.
In the end last years junior championship winners Drumbaragh earned the bragging rights over neighbours Ballinlough. It was a must win game as both teams had lost their opening round
Ballinlolugh started the better with a brace of points from Kevin Devine and Johnny Reilly but Drumbaragh fought their way into the game and a William Carry goal gave them a 1-5 to 0-2 lead after 15 minutes. A goal from former Meath star Peadar Byrne brought Ballinlough right back into the game and with ten minutes remaining in the half only a point separated the teams 1-5 to 1-4. Ballinlough were reduced to 14 men when corner back Robbie Farrell was dismissed by referee Eamonn Barry. Finian Murtaghs charges found another gear and dominated the remainder. Their second goal arrived courtesy of Darragh McNamara and Drumbaragh went in at the break 2-10 to 1-4 ahead.
Scores were at a premium in the second half. As Ballinlough pushed forward for scores Drumbaragh were contented on soaking up the pressure and catching their opponents on the break. Lorcan Maguire gave 'The Lough' some hope with their second goal with seven minutes remaining but it was Drumbaragh who went on to record a very fine victory.
Drumbaragh scorers: William Carry 1-2, Daragh McNamara 1-1, Colm Carry and Thomas Carry 0-3 each, James Connolly 0-2, Peter Carry, John Smith, Seanie Bennett and DJ Carry 0-1 each
Ballinlough: Derek Muldoon, Robbie Farrell, Podge Muldoon, James Baugh, Benji Smith 0-1, Lorcan Maguire 1-0, Colm Mallon, Tommy McCullen, Cian Mallen, Johnny Reilly 0-1, Michael Geraghty, Mark McCullen, Peadar Byrne 1-2, Kevin Devine 0-2, Sean Geraghty. Subs: Niall Farrelly, Jack Tunney 0-1, Jonathan Reilly