Roscommon’s winning run came to an end as Monaghan prevailed in the battle of Clones, writes Jack Gannon.
It took five minutes before Roscommons Ciaran Murtagh got the first score of the afternoon. Monaghan were quick to reply, as Jack Mccarron levelled the sides just a minute later.
This kick-started a great run for Monaghan scoring three points without reply. A score from Karl Gallagher and two from Micheal Bannigan saw the hosts lead, four points to one after 16 minutes.
A fine point from Richard Hughes broke Roscommons 15 minute scoring duck on 20 minutes. Ciaran Murtagh got his second of the game and his side's third just three minutes later.
Gary Mohan extended Monaghan’s lead to two on 25 minutes. Two scores from the brothers Ciaran and Diarmuid Murtagh saw the sides draw level on five points each after 32 minutes.
Monaghan were able to take a two point advantage into half-time as both Jack McCarron and Micheal Bannigan gave their side a seven to five point lead over the visitors.
Dessie Ward continued Monaghan’s momentum into the second half with a well-taken score a minute after the restart.
Ben O’Carroll would get his name on the scoresheet for the rossies before Jack McCarron and Ryan Wylie got two points in as many minutes to extend Monaghan’s advantage to ten points to six after 48 minutes.
Roscommon weren’t ready to lie down yet however as Enda Smith and Niall Kilroy converted two points in as many minutes to cut Monaghan’s lead down to just two midway through the second-half.
Monaghan would regain their four point advantage as Conor McCarthy and Rory Beggan kicked two super scores. Roscommon replied with a much needed free from Ciaran Murtagh on 58 minutes.
The sides would trade the last four scores of the game as Jack McCarron and Sean Jones were on target for Monaghan.
This gave Monaghan a three point lead going into added time as they were able to hold firm whilst relying on some great defending from the likes of Ciaran Duffy.
Monaghan ran out 14 to 11 point winners in the end to halt Roscommon’s winning run and to extend their own run to two wins on the bounce.
