DOWN BUT NOT OUT

LOUTH 2-17 DOWN 0-22

Still smiling: Down supporters Gerry, Pearse and Odhran Mulholland enjoying Sunday’s National League game between Louth and Down at the Intergral Grounds Drogheda Picture: Brendan Monaghan Sports/DNA

With the strong breeze behind them, and what seemed to be a shoot on sight, first half gameplan, the visiting Mourne men got off to a great start at the Integral Grounds against Louth on Sunday. Down scored four two pointers and looked the better side at the Drogheda venue. But goals win games and the Wee County came out on top with one in each half from Ryan Burns and Kieran McArdle.

With the wind advantage Down only led by two points at halftime, and it proved not to be enough for the Mourne men.

Down’s Paddy McCarthy is tackled by Louth pair Daire Nally and Dermot Campbell at the Integral Grounds Drogheda Picture: Brendan Monaghan Sports/DNA

Louth talisman Sam Mulroy proved to be a thorn in the side for Down, landing 0-10 in a Man of the match performance as he drove his team mates on at every opportunity. Tommy Durnin and Ciaran Byrne won alot of high ball out round midfield for Louth, who kept their noses in front, to win by a single point at the end of 70 minutes.

Once again Pat Havern top scored for Down with another 8 points to add to his impressive tally so far.

Next up for Conor Laverty’s men is a trip to Breffni Park in Cavan this Saturday (6pm).