Minor footballers stage comeback to draw with Rebels

Sat, 13th February 2016

Dublin's minor footballers staged a great second half fightback to earn a 1-13 each draw with Cork in their opening Leinster MFL clash at Parnell Park on Saturday.

Against the wind Dublin started well and led 0-3 to 0-1 inside seven minutes following points from Conor Hynes, Ross McGarry and Kieran Murray.

However, Cork inspired by Mark Buckley and Ryan Fowley in their half-forward line soon assumed control and by the interval led 1-10 to 0-3.

Their goal arrived in the 27th minute when Fowley fired to the corner of the net.

Dublin had gone close to scoring a goal in the 20th minute but Seán Bugler was denied from close range.

The Dubs improved massively in the second period - upping their work-rate and tackle count with three points from Cormac Howley (two frees) cutting the deficit.

Five minutes into the second half Seán Bugler weaved around his marker before rattling the Cork net to make it 1-6 to 1-10.

Dublin maintained their momentum with scores from Cormac Howley (two frees), sub Aaron Bradshaw, and the impressive Ross McGarry bring the sides level by the three-quarter stage.

But Buckley edged the Rebels back in front before a Conor Hynes point had the sides lvel again.

Conor Lennon gave Dublin the lead for the first time since the early minutes of the game but Cork struck back with two points from Buckley (one free).

Cork held a one-point lead as the game entered the last two minutes before Ross McGarry brilliantly converted a free from the stand side to earn Dublin a deserved draw.

In the same group Kildare, who have two teams in the Leinster MFL, drew with Wexford 1-11 each to leave all counties level after Round 1 of games.

Next Saturday Dublin travel to Wexford (Ferns, 2.30) while Kildare host Cork.