Unlucky Garrycastle must do it all over again

Garrycastle's All-Ireland club dream will be decided in a replay, after they fought out a thrilling draw against Crossmaglen Rangers in a pulsating final at Croke Park today (St Patrick's Day).Anthony Cunningham's charges stunned the favourites with an outstanding first half performance, but Cross' had the legs in the final quarter to come away with a draw - and almost a win.Garrycastle led 1-8 to 0-7 at half time, with Dessie Dolan (0-3) and James Dolan (0-2) impressing, and Paddy Mulvihill striking a low shot past Cross' keeper Paul Hearty for the half's marquee score.Despite losing Tom McHugh to a red card, the Athlone side kept plugging away, and led 1-10 to 0-8 after 40 minutes; Crossmaglen's Paul Kernan was also sent off, restoring the balance in manpower.Kernan's dismissal only seemed to galvanise Cross', and they battled back into contention. Fine points from Tony Kernan, and a trio from Oisín McConville, levelled matters by the 49th minute.Garrycastle enjoyed a brief purple patch, and moved two points ahead thanks to scores from Dessie Dolan (a free) and Mulvihill, but Crossmaglen dominated the final ten minutes, achieving parity through McConville (a free) and David McKenna's kick, coming from a near-impossible angle.The Armagh outfit had their chances to tie up the game in the dying moments, but Garrycastle held on manfully to ensure a replay.For a full report and reaction, see next Wednesday's edition of the Westmeath Examiner.