Callaghan fires Ballaghaderreen to Division 2 title

MAYO SENIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 2 FINAL

Ballaghaderreen 2-15

Aghamore 0-20

In Hastings Insurance MacHale Park

This final was on knife edge right until the end. Both sets of supporters that made their way to MacHale Park on Saturday afternoon were treated to a real dogfight. 

It was the Ballaghaderreen captain Luke O'Grady who stepped up to the mark and scored the decisive point, four minutes into added time.

The referee blew the final whistle right after that and Ballaghaderreen had just clinched the Division 2 crown. 

Two goals scored in the first half by sharp-shooter Kuba Callaghan, plus four further points ensured a 2-7 to 0-9 lead at half-time.

But Aghamore showed true fighting spirit, especially inspired by Liam Lavin, Conor Kilkenny and Fergal Boland. With a triple of points right at the start of the second period, Aghamore clawed their way back into the game.

It was good old nip and tuck from then on, and both teams were level with only five minutes on the clock.

Aghamore took the lead by a Lavin point. 

But then enter a true sporting legend: Former Mayo county footballer Andy Moran, who was subbed in for Ballaghaderreen in the 44th minute, pointed a quick double of scores from open play.

The momentum had swung, but would swing back again, when Aghamore drew level again with only a minute to spare in added time.

It all seemed destined for extra-time, when Ballaghaderreen captain Luke O'Grady took the opportunity, not from a very favourable angle, and curled it nicely over the bar.

A full match report will be carried in Tuesday's Mayo News.