Down emerged victorious in the NFL Division 3 final, overcoming Wexford in extra-time at Croke Park. The win came after a late comeback from Down, who were trailing by three points with just eight minutes of normal time remaining.
Wexford’s Near Miss
Wexford almost sealed the victory when Gavin Sheehan’s goal chance hit the woodwork. However, they couldn’t maintain their lead, and late scores from Ceilum Doherty, Liam Kerr, and Ryan McEvoy brought the game to extra-time. In the additional 20 minutes, Down outscored Wexford by 0-04 to 0-01.
The narrow win should secure Down’s place in this year’s All-Ireland SFC. Wexford, on the other hand, appear set for another season in the Tailteann Cup.
Down’s Road Ahead
Down now turn their attention to their Ulster SFC opener against Donegal in Letterkenny on 26 April. Despite the upcoming glamour tie, the Division 3 decider was anything but a gentle tune-up, with Wexford providing a stern test for the Tailteann Cup winners.
Wexford started brightly, leading 0-06 to 0-04. Down responded, with a point from Doherty reducing the deficit before John McGeough was fouled, resulting in a penalty and a black card for Wexford’s Eoin Porter. Odhran Murdock’s penalty was saved, but Down eventually found their rhythm, with Pat Havern scoring heavily to help them gain the upper hand.
Key Moments in the Match
- Mark Rossiter’s two-pointer brought Wexford within one point of Down.
- Another Rossiter two-pointer gave Wexford a lead.
- Down scored the last three points to force extra-time.
Down continued their momentum into extra-time, with points from Guinness, Ruairí McCormack, and Adam Crimmins.
Down’s focus now shifts to their Ulster SFC opener against Donegal, while Wexford will likely compete in the Tailteann Cup again.