Longwood's footballers lost out in the opening round of the Corn Na Bóinne, the cup competition restricted to intermediate teams, coming up just short after a competitive game in challenging circumstances.

Credit to the Drumbaragh club who have done tremendous work to improve their club facilities in recent years; that said, underfoot conditions were incredibly heavy and taxing on the legs.

It was the ultimate game of two halves. Drumbaragh were much the better in the opening half, taking an eight point lead to the half-time break.

Longwood were dominant in the second period with some beautiful points from Sean Coloe and Ryan Moore complemented by an excellent Louis Butler goal. But, try as they might, they could not bridge the gap, eventually coming up just two points short.

While disappointed to lose, there is surely something to build on and the boys can approach the next game (at home to Moynalvey on Thursday evening) with a degree of optimism.

Special mentions to Brian Stagg and Ben McLoughlin both of whom made their first team debuts and performed very well.

Longwood: Kevin Maguire, Cathal Campbell, Adam Leacy, Ross Kerrigan, Brian Stagg, Sean Sheridan (Capt.), Ciaran Sheridan, Bob Maguire, Sean Coloe (0-4), Gavin Griffith (0-1), Ryan Moore (0-5), David Coloe, Ben McLoughlin, Anthony Healy, Louis Butler (1-0)

Maigh Dearmhaí abú!! 🤍🖤🏁🏁