Canning hat trick helps Roscommon qualify for Nickey Rackard Cup final
The Roscommon team that took on Louth in the Nickey Rackard Cup. Photo: Roscommon GAA.
Roscommon booked their place in the final of the Nickey Rackard Cup as they accounted for Louth.
Sligo’s one point defeat to Armagh meant in the end a draw would have been enough for Roscommon to progress. But, Kevin Sammon’s charges took no chances as they produced an improved second half display to book a trip to Croke Park on the weekend of May 31/June 1.
With the stakes high, Louth started the stronger to move 0-6 to 0-3 after 10 minutes. Sean Canning rifled home a valuable Roscommon goal while his point pushed Roscommon 1-7 to 0-7 in front.
But, Darren Geoghegan was on form, firing over seven points in the opening period as Louth came on strong to lead at the interval.
A brilliant score from Paddy Lynch helped Louth keep their two score advantage at the start of the second half. Roscommon needed a response and Brendan Mulry provided just that with his side’s second goal of the contest.
From there Roscommon pushed on as Canning slammed home his side’s third goal after 54 minutes to move his side 3-13 to 0-17 in front. The Pádraig Pearses man completed his hat trick late on to ensure Roscommon will head to Croke Park in two weeks time.
**Full report in Tuesday’s Roscommon Herald**
