Derrylin manager Mickey Cadden
Mickey Cadden steered Derrylin to the intermediate championship title for the first time in 17 years with a 2-7 to 1-9 victory over Maguiresbridge.
The Bridge had been favoured ahead of the decider, but the O’Connell’s frustrated them with a splendid defensive effort which confined them to two points in the first half and just one point from play for the entire game.
The key score came just before half time. Donal McAvinue floated in a speculative sideline ball which Eoin Maguire fetched and drilled home to give Derry line a five point advantage.
Another goal eight minutes into the second half from Maguire, a flick past the out-rushing Fergal Hanna, left the St Mary’s with a mountain to climb.
Colm Courtney’s men made a valiant effort though and a late Sean Corrigan penalty brought them back to within two points of the O’Connell’s.
Ciaran Corrigan had a tricky chance from play to send the game to a replay, but his shot tailed wide and it was delight for Derrylin.
See this Wednesday’s Fermanagh Herald for full match report, reaction and statistical analysis.