Monaghan’s promotion hopes are over after losing 4-3 to Kerry in a free-taking competition in the Lidl Ladies football league semi-finals at Mountbellew-Moylough in Galway
After more than 80 minutes of action, there was no separating the sides and it ended 1-14 to 2-11 after extra time having finished 1-8 apiece at full-time.
Kerry made the better start and led four points to two at the first water break with Ellen McCarron and Cora Courtney on the mark for Ciaran Murphy’s side
Monaghan were much improved after the restart and grabbed three of the next four scores making it five points apiece at half-time.
Kerry were the dominant side in the next quarter and a goal from Lorraine Scanlon saw the Munster outfit lead 1-6 to five points at the second water break.
Monaghan recovered their momentum in the fourth quarter, Ciara McAnespie reduced the margin to a solitary point when she found the net 46th minute, Courtney restored parity two minutes later slotting over a free making it 1-6 apiece.
A Monaghan victory appeared to be on the cards when Courtney subsequently slotted over a brace of points giving them a two-point cushion with seven minutes remaining.
Kerry responded in style and a point each from Louise Ni Mhuircheartaigh and Niamh Ní Chonchúir sent the game to extra-time.
Kerry out-scored Monaghan three points to one in the first half of extra time leaving two points between the sides at the halfway stage.
Monaghan raised their game after the resumption and a 72nd minute goal from Ellen McCarron restored a two-point cushion for the Farney women.
Yet again there was a resurgence from Kerry and in the 81st minute, Lousie Ni Mhuircheartaigh slotted over a free and a free-taking competition was upon us.
The Kingdom won the free-taking competition 4-3 with Danielle O’Leary landing the winning score.
Kerry now march onto the league final while Monaghan’s campaign has ended.
