Cavan Ladies were knocked out of the All-Ireland Intermediate championship at the quarter-final stage by Westmeath in controversial circumstances at Kingspan Breffni.
Cavan got the first two scores of the game through points from Aisling Gilsenan and Aishling Sheridan. However, the lead was quickly wiped out as Grainne Byrne found the back of the net on seven minutes.
It was double punishment for Cavan who conceded another goal only a minute later. Sarah Dillon, who had popped the ball over the bar moments prior, the scorer of Westmeath’s second goal.
Cavan needed a strong response, and on 13 minutes they got it. Aisling Gilsenan with a fine goal to get Cavan right back into the contest.
Westmeath were able to manage the game and keep Cavan at arm’s length; until the hosts got three scores on the bounce, moving level at half-time.
Changes were made by both sides at the break but it was Westmeath who got the first two scores of the second-half before points from Gilsenan and Ellie Brady put Cavan back in front with 10 played in the second-half.
22 minutes into the second period and Gilsenan’s latest score gave Cavan a two-point lead before a crucial moment in the game as Anna Jones buried Westmeath’s third goal of the day to give “The Lake County” the lead once more.
In the closing stages with Emmet Daly’s side chasing a point to send the teams to extra-time; Cavan were seemingly awarded a free kick from the 13 metre line.
However, the referee appeared to reverse his decision, in fact awarding Westmeath the possession. Which was enough for them to see the game out and seal their place in the All-Ireland Intermediate Championship semi-final.
Westmeath winning out 3-7 to 1-12.
