AHL Division 3: Longwood 3-16 Donaghmore Ashbourne 2-18

Longwood claimed a narrow but deserved victory over Donaghmore Ashbourne in Division 3 of the Senior Hurling League on Friday evening.  The final scoreline of 3-16 to 2-18 would indicate an entertaining and closely fought encounter and that is exactly what it was.

In a game that ebbed and flowed throughout, Longwood’s ability to raise green flags at crucial moments ultimately proved decisive.

Donaghmore Ashbourne made the sharper start and were first on the scoreboard inside the opening minute, but Longwood settled quickly and responded well. Early points from Sean Coloe and Anthony Healy helped them find their rhythm before Kevin Heagney struck for a vital goal on nine minutes. Heagney added a second major midway through the half as Longwood turned pressure into scores, and although Donaghmore Ashbourne remained dangerous, Longwood carried a 2-9 to 1-10 lead into the break.

The second half was every bit as competitive, with Donaghmore Ashbourne chipping away through frees and points from play to stay in touch. Longwood continued to pick off valuable scores of their own, with Anthony Healy accurate from placed balls and Sean Coloe adding from play. The key score arrived midway through the second half when Kevin Heagney completed his hat-trick with Longwood’s third goal, giving the home side fresh momentum at a vital stage.

The men in green refused to go away and struck for a late goal to set up a tense finish, but Longwood kept their composure in the closing stages. Further points from Anthony Healy, Sean Coloe and Heagney helped keep their nose in front, and despite sustained pressure from Ashbourne, Longwood held out to secure the win by the minimum margin.

Kevin Heagney was the standout figure in attack with an impressive 3-2 from play, while Anthony Healy contributed heavily from frees and open play. Sean Coloe also chipped in with important scores at key moments as Longwood showed enough resilience and finishing power to get over the line.  Ben McLoughlin also warrants a special mention as he worked tirelessly throughout the hour, his industry and energy contributing greatly to the win.  

Longwood: Ross Healy, David Coloe, Mark Kennedy, Tomás O’Brien, Conor M Dixon, Sean Coloe (0-4), Conor Dixon, Sean Sheridan, Gavin Griffith, Anthony Healy (0-8), Damien Healy (0-1), Ryan Moore (0-1), William Phillips, Kevin Heagney (3-2), Ben McLoughlin, Sean Kelly