Kilcoo Secure Semi-Final Berth with Hard-Fought Win Against Crosserlough

Paul Devlin emerged as the top scorer in the game held at Pairc Esler, contributing seven points. Pre-match favourites Kilcoo faced a persistent challenge from Crosserlough but ultimately managed to clinch a 0-15 to 1-10 victory in the Ulster Club SFC quarter-final. Crosserlough, playing in Newry, were left regretting the accumulation of three black cards and a late red card during the match. The underdog team initiated the game with an impressive start, as two of the Smith brothers combined to score a goal within the initial five minutes. Peter’s cross-field pass was subsequently palmed into the net from close range by James. The two teams exchanged scores before Crosserlough’s Oran Rehill received a black card for a late tackle on Miceal Rooney. While Rehill was off the field, Kilcoo outscored the Cavan champions 0-4 to 0-3, thereby reducing the deficit to a single point. “The Magpies” steadily built their momentum as the first half progressed. Despite impressive scores from Crosserlough’s Peter Smith and goalkeeper Shane McManus, two frees from Paul Devlin, alongside a score from Jerome Johnston, ensured Kilcoo held a one-point advantage at half-time. Crosserlough was compelled to begin the second half with 14 players after Kieran Smith was shown a black card at the conclusion of the first half. The second half proved to be a tense encounter, with Kilcoo unable to definitively pull away from the Cavan champions. It appeared that Crosserlough consistently provided a response whenever Kilcoo scored. Down manager Conor Laverty, coming off the bench, made a significant impact, delivering a superb assist for a Devlin mark and scoring a remarkable point with the outside of his right boot. Crosserlough battled until the very end, drawing level with five minutes remaining following an excellent point from Matthew Costello. However, the day ultimately belonged to Kilcoo. Devlin, who was the game’s highest scorer with 0-7, converted their two decisive points in the final moments. Meanwhile, Crosserlough’s Dara McVeety (black card) and James Smith (red card) concluded the match in the dugout. Kilcoo’s reward for their victory is a semi-final fixture against either Erne Gaels or Scotstown.