Monaghan’s preseason preparation continued as they overcame Fermanagh in Castleblayney on Sunday afternoon.
However, Monaghan had to work for it by Fermanagh, needing a strong second-half finish to book a home McKenna Cup semi-final.
Stephen Mooney, David Garland and Fionan Carolan kicked Monaghan into a three point lead after five minutes.
Fermanagh opened their account with a Daragh McGurn two-pointer on 10 minutes, before Garvin Jones drew proceedings level with a free.
Josh Largo Ellis got the opening goal of the afternoon. Indeed, the ball finding its way into the Monaghan net having been launched from distance.
After 23 minutes Fermanagh led by two points, 1-03 to 0-04. Monaghan responded in similar fashion. Two minutes later when Darragh McElerney found the back of the Fermanagh net.
At half-time Fermanagh took a two point lead to the break, 1-6 to 1-4.
Shane McGullion got Fermanagh’s second goal of the afternoon, five minutes after the start. However, Garvin Jones quickly added another point for the Erne siders.
As Monaghan boss Gabriel Bannigan made a raft of changes, Michael Bannigan entered the fray and made an immediate impact for his side.
A free and a two-pointer inside 40 seconds brought Monaghan back within three.
A Dessie Ward free levelled proceedings on 49 minutes, before David Garland fired Monaghan ahead after 52 minutes.
Eddie Walshe landed the final two-pointer of the day, stretching Monaghan’s lead to five points.
Justin McDade got Fermanagh’s third goal of the clash on 57 minutes, but Monaghan held out for the remainder of the shortened 60 minute game, booking their place in Wednesday evening’s semi-final.
Monaghan face Tyrone in Wednesday evening’s semi-final. Throw-in is set for 7:30pm with a Monaghan venue to be confirmed.
