Michael Glaveys opened their Championship campaign with a two-point victory over Western Gaels in Frenchpark writes Matthew Towey.
In what was a close encounter throughout, Glaveys took raced into an early four-point lead. A two point free along with two individual scores all from Dylan Ruane with five minutes played.
Western Gaels were up and running when they found the back of the Micahel Glaveys net after eight minutes of play following a goal line scramble.
Michael Glaveys dominated around the middle in the early stages responded with scores through Niall, Robert and Cathal Heneghan. Glaveys led by seven points on 13 minutes.
Kevin Higgins scored the hosts first two pointer of the evening as Western Gaels looked to gain a foothold in the contest.
Luke Hester and Sean Brehony traded scores before Western Gales goalkeeper Patrick Gaynor put on a masterclass in kicking in the final 10 minutes of the first-half.
The County U-20 keeper sailed over a 45 before nailing three frees. All of which were outside the two-point arc. Western Gales moved into a two-point lead with 27 minutes played.
On the brink of half-time the hosts were awarded a penalty. Captain Finbarr Cregg dispatching the spot-kick. Western Gaels led by five at the break, 2-10 to 0-11.
The second-half began with both teams trading scores through the newly introduced Darragh Heneghan of Miachael Glaveys and Rory Wester of Western Gaels.
Keeper Gaynor stars for Western Gaels
Western Gaels added further points through keeper Patrick Gaynor and the experienced Cathal Cregg as the hosts side grew in confidence. The hosts, leading by six points on 38 minutes.
Glaveys reduced the lead with two efforts from outside the two-point arc as they trailed by two. Further points from Dylan Ruane and Daniel Hagney squared the game with 45 minutes played.
Patrick Gaynor produced a wonderful save to deny the visitors, before Western Gaels moved the ball downfield into space for Barry Creighton to put the home side two in front.
In the 55th minute Darragh Heneghan made a wonderful run, weaving through the opposition defence, finding the back of the net.
The visitors were two in front soon after when Robert Heneghan fired over.
Western Gaels attempted to work a two point score at the death to rescue a draw but were unable to do so. Michael Glaveys held out for a two point victory. 1-20 to 2-15.
Elsewhere on opening night in group C Boyle scored a statement win over Roscommon Gaels. While in Group A, St Faithleachs stunned Padraig Pearses.
