Kilcoo Advances to Final, Manager Lacey Expresses Contentment

Kilcoo manager Karl Lacey stated that his team was “in the right place at the right time” to score five goals during their Ulster Club SFC semi-final victory against Scotstown. The Down champions secured a 5-10 to 0-14 win at the Athletic Grounds on Saturday night, avenging their defeat by Scotstown in last year’s Ulster Club quarter-finals. Four of Kilcoo’s goals were scored within an eight-minute period, spanning either side of half-time. Lacey reflected on the game, saying, “In the first half we had an opportunity [for a goal] but didn’t take it and then we missed the free from it – it felt like it was going to be one of those nights where we weren’t going to get the goal.” He continued, “But things opened up, it was man-to-man football, there were gaps and we exploited them well. On days you get goals, on others you don’t but tonight we were in the right place at the right time so happy days.” He also commented on their recent performances, stating, “We played a good Crosserlough team two weeks ago and a good Scotstown team tonight so we’re happy to get over the line.” The 2022 All-Ireland champions, Kilcoo, are set to compete in the 8 December decider against the winner of Sunday’s second semi-final, which will be contested by Clann Eireann and Errigal Ciaran. Kilcoo’s win served as retribution for their quarter-final loss to Scotstown last year, a match the Monaghan side won with a last-gasp point from Rory Beggan. Lacey remarked on the nature of their victory, adding, “Scotstown are a good side and maybe they got a taste of our medicine from last year.” He further attributed their success to preparation, noting, “We’ve worked hard and I’m really happy to get individuals back at the right time.” Concluding his remarks, Lacey said, “We’re just happy to be in the final and we now have a busy two weeks ahead of us.”