Longford are out of the Leinster Senior Football Championship after a seven point defeat to Wicklow after extra-time.
After a opening, Longford opened up a healthy lead following a positive start. James Moran, Jayson Matthews, Cathal McCabe and an Oran Kenny two-pointer asserting dominance for Mike Solan’s side.
Wicklow fought their way back in to the game. Oisin McGraynor well amongst the scores for the visitors.
However, Longford went into the half-time interval in front. Dylan Farrell’s two-pointer opening up a four-point deficit as Longford led 12 points to eight.
However, the visitors were far from out of the contest, as Wicklow secured the first five scores of the second-half. One of which being a goal from Padraig O’Toole.
Longford responded with a goal of their own, Dessie Reynolds with a fine finish to bring the sides level.
The game remained level until after the 70 minute mark.
Aaron Farrell thought he’d won it in the second minute of injury time, only to be thwarted by another Padraig O’Toole point right at the death to bring the game to extra-time.
Wicklow’s strength in depth became evident in extra-time, notching up six points without response. A Dean Healy two-pointer amongst them, the best of the scores.
Matthew Carey’s two-pointer in the second period of extra-time gave the hosts some hope, but a Kevin Quinn goal right at the end sealed the win for Wicklow.
Wicklow will welcome Dublin to Aughrim next week after winning out 2-23 to 1-19. Longford turn attention to the Tailteann Cup with their opening the game the weekend of May 11th.
