Joes Hold Firm at the Top While Division 2 Lead Changes Hands
The John O’Neill Sand and Gravel Leagues produced another weekend of high-octane drama, with St Joseph’s maintaining their perfect record and a shock result at the top of Division 2.
Division 1: The Joes Stay Perfect
St Josephs remain the standout side in the top flight, continuing their flawless start with an impressive away victory over Newtown Blues. Locally, Ardee St Marys kept pace at the top, moving level on eight points after a disciplined 0-11 to 0-8 win over Naomh Máirtín.
Elsewhere, Hunterstown Rovers staged a magnificent comeback to defeat St Mochtas, while Mattock Rangers shared the spoils with Dundalk Gaels in a hard-fought draw at The Ramparts.
Division 2: Stabannon Surge to the Summit
A major upset saw Oliver Plunketts inflict the first defeat of the season on leaders Roche Emmets. This 1-14 to 2-7 result paved the way for Stabannon Parnells to leapfrog into first place following a gritty win over Sean O’Mahonys. St Brides and Kilkerley Emmets also recorded strong wins to keep the pressure on the top two.
Division 3: Unbeaten Runs Continue
The race in Division 3 remains a two-horse battle at the top, as both O’Connells and Lann Léire protected their unbeaten records with wins over Wolfe Tones and Naomh Malachi. Mid-Louth’s Na Piarsaigh/Blackrock also stayed in the hunt with a convincing victory over Annaghminnon Rovers.
Mouthwatering Fixtures Ahead
Looking ahead to next weekend, all eyes will be on the “local derby” as Hunterstown Rovers travel to Collon to face Mattock Rangers. In Division 1, league leaders St Josephs host the county champions in what promises to be a heavyweight clash, while Ardee St Marys welcome Dreadnots to the town.
This weekend of sport adds to a vibrant period for the “great talent” in our community, following Mick Lennon’s retirement at the Aviva and the Louth Leisure Cycling initiatives. As the summer championship approaches, these league points are becoming more precious by the week.
