Roscommon show great resolve to eke out draw with Clare
Aisling Hanly and Laura Fleming were two of Roscommon's key performers against Clare in Ennis this afternoon
The Roscommon intermediate ladies' team have put themselves very firmly in the promotion picture in Division Three of the LGFA National Football League after eking out a deserved draw against Clare at Cusack Park, Ennis.
With both sides top of the table coming into the game after winning their first two matches, Clare, who were just edged out in last year's All-Ireland intermediate final by Kildare, were perceived to be the standout team in the division.
But Roscommon played their best 30 minutes of football under manager Ollie Lennon to deservedly take a 1-6 to 0-2 advantage into the break, albeit they had played with the aid of a strong breeze.
With Saoirse Wynne, Lauren Shanagher, Kate Nolan and Laura Fleming playing brilliantly, Roscommon eventually made all their good approach play count in the second quarter as they hit 1-5 without reply.
Aisling Hanly grabbed the goal, while Aisling Feely kicked a couple of outstanding points.
Roscommon, who were without Lisa O'Rourke and Niamh Feeney from their named starting 15, were under the cosh for much of the third quarter as the home side staged a revival.
The excellent Fidelma Marrinan hauled Clare back into contention with a 41st minute goal. Six minutes later, they were level as the same player restored parity.
With Caoimhe Cregg sin-binned and Aisling Feely departed through a knee injury, Roscommon's position looked precarious, but they dug in and showed great resolve.
Laura Fleming restored their lead from a free, and they looked like securing a famous win until Marrinan landed a spectacular equaliser for the hosts in the fourth minute of injury time.
With two teams set to be promoted, Roscommon remain in a great position at the head of the table and will look forward to their remaining games with confidence
