Roscommon’s promotion hopes suffer blow

Down 1-12 Roscommon 2-6 Roscommon’s hopes of promotion from Division Three of the Lidl Ladies NFL suffered a blow as they were consigned to their first defeat of the campaign.

This was a costly defeat for Roscommon, not just in terms of their promotion hopes but also due to three costly injuries picked up in attack. 

Kate Nolan, Róise Lennon and Caoimhe Lennon all picked up injuries on the 4G pitch in Cherryvale, Belfast as Roscommon will now have to look deep within their squad before next weekend’s clash with Laois as they seek to arrest a run of three league games without a win.

This game was set to be played in Páirc Esler with the change of venue appearing to disrupt Roscommon’s preparations as they endured a slow start.

Down got an early fillip with Eva Hicks bagging an early 1-1 to help her side to an early five point lead. For most of the first half, Down dominated with Megan Doherty, Laoise Duffy and Eimear Fitzpatrick finding the target.

Roscommon appeared in trouble but they fought back as Abby Curran did brilliantly to gather Kate Nolan’s delivery before finding the net. This score ensured Roscommon trailed 1-7 to 1-3 at half time.

Weather conditions took a turn for the worse in the second half with incessant rain, thunder and lightning all making conditions difficult for everyone in attendance.

Upon the resumption of play, Down increased their half time buffer as Niamh Edgar and two frees from Fitzpatrick moved them 1-10 to 1-3 ahead.

Roscommon looked to be in trouble, but substitute Lauren Shanagher goaled to leave themselves in the hunt for a precious win.

But a Niamh King score and a Fitzpatrick free saw Down consign Roscommon to their first defeat of the league campaign and leave their promotion hopes hanging by a thread.

*Full report in Tuesday’s Roscommon Herald*