Down’s valiant performance wasn’t enough to overcome Donegal, who won by six points in an Ulster semi-final. Both teams missed chances that could have altered the outcome.
Down started well, with Eugene Branagan and Pat Havern scoring, but Donegal soon responded, taking a lead with a two-point free from Paddy McBrearty. Down had a goal chance through John McGeough, but he misplayed it, and Donegal capitalized with a goal of their own after a swift counter-attack.
Donegal then built a lead, with McBrearty scoring a goal after a long pass from Shaun Patton. Despite efforts from Down, including points from Havern and Ryan McEvoy, Donegal ended the first half with an eight-point advantage.
In the second half, Donegal scored early, but Down fought back, with Pat Havern and Eugene Branagan reducing the gap to six points. Donegal responded with scores from O’Baoill, McBrearty, and Moore. Down continued to battle, with a strong performance from Danny Magill and key points from Guinness and Branagan.
Though Down had chances, including a save by Shaun Patton after a misplaced kickout, they couldn’t close the gap. Donegal’s defense, led by Ronan Burns’ key saves, kept them ahead, with a late free from Michael Langan securing the win for Donegal.
Despite the loss, Down’s performance against one of the top teams in Ireland raised confidence that they can challenge in future stages
Read the full story in the current issue of the Mourne Observer
