Ugly scenes mar minor football final

The Downs won a thrilling Westmeath Minor Football Championship Division 1 final at TEG Cusack Park on Saturday, overcoming Shandonagh by a solitary point, 1-14 to 1-13.

Sadly, the entertaining action on the pitch was marred by ugly scenes after the final whistle. Firstly, players from both sides jostled and then referee Eoin Jordan (Athlone) was targeted as he left the pitch. It is understood the Competitions Control Committee (CCC) of Westmeath GAA will carry out an investigation.

A fisted goal by Odhran McColgan ensured The Downs led at half-time by 1-5 to 0-4, but they faced a stiff breeze in the second half and had to dig deep against a strong Shandonagh side. With Padraig Monaghan outstanding at midfield and unerring from placed balls, The Downs did enough to claim victory, but only after Shandonagh squandered some great scoring chances.

A fine goal by Sean Graham ensured the Kilpatrick side remained firmly in contention, but crucially, they couldn't get their noses in front.

There was a late, late opportunity to go for an equalising point from a 45', but the ball was kicked backwards and the chance was lost.