Swatragh 1-10 Castledawson 1-13

Davitts Left Two Rue Missed Opportunity As Referee Plays His Part

Swatragh hosted Castledawson in their opening home game of the season. Swatragh were hoping to continue their good home form from last season when the only suffered one defeat. The Davitts knew they would be in for a tough examination against a Broagh side unbeaten so far this season.

Swatragh started the game brightly end enjoyed early midfield dominance. The early ball into the full forward line was reaping dividends with both Convery and McGuckin getting on the score sheet early on. As the half wore on Castledawson began to gain parity in the middle sector and closed the gap on the home side. Swatragh began to seem reluctant to feed the ball in early and began running up cul de sacs, and were accordingly blown up for over carrying on numerous occasions.  This repeated turning over of possession gave Castledawson the impetus they needed, and they went in ahead at the interval.

Swatragh began the second half as they did the first getting two early scores from McGuckin frees to level the sides early on. Then a free was launched forward early by Bradley and Convery was on hand to fist home from close range.

It was not long before Castledawson were back on level terms. A forward run from the midfielder was fed from the wing and he took numerous steps before finishing low to the corner. The Swatragh faithful were furious that the goal was allowed to stand especially considering how conscientious the referee had been on over carrying earlier in the game.

Further controversy was to follow as the referee decided that a legitimate looking tackle from Swatragh captain Seamus Kearney warranted a red card. It was another baffling decision from the referee who also saw fit to penalise the home side for over carrying on an amazing fourteen occasions.

Swatragh battled manfully too the end but their numerical disadvantage allowed Castledawson to deploy an extra man at the back to combat the influence of the threatening Convery. At the final whistle Swatragh had once again been edged out on a score line of: Swatragh 1-10 Castledawson 1-13.

It was a disappointing result for the Davitts who had looked well capable of victory until the sending off. However they will have to look at themselves for the reasons for defeat with poor decision making at key stages costing them dear. Their failure to persist with early ball to the full forward line while well on top needs to be addressed.  They will be hoping for better luck in their next fixture against Magherafelt at home.

Team and scorers: B. Og McAtamney, O. Dillon, P. Mooney, M. Quinn, G. Turner, R. Dillon, S. McMaster, M. Friel, R. O’Hagan, B. Tohill(0-01), S. Kearney(0-01), M. McKenna, S. Bradley, R. Convery (1-03), S. McGuckin(0-05).
Subs: R. McWilliams for R. O’Hagan.