Penalty miss and wides prove very costly for Kilmainhamwood

A missed penalty was costly as Kilmainhamwood lost out narrowly by 0-7 to 1-6 in a crucial first round JFC tie against St Brigid's at Moynalty on Saturday writes MICHAEL BERRILL.

The host club deserve tremendous credit for their efforts in directing players and supporters and the playing surface and scoreboard is as good as you will see anywhere.

Kilmainhamwood manager Colm Kane named a side of youth and experience that started off quite nervously and tallied four wides from play before Stephen Kiernan pointed a free after 10 minutes.

St Brigid’s levelled immediately before David Russell restored the 'Wood's advantage. St Brigid’s added a brace of points, but Kiernan drew the sides level again.

Kilmainhamwood forged ahead when Gary Yorke converted a '45' while St Brigid’s levelled soon after.

Close to the interval St Brigid’s got through for a goal to take a 1-4 to 0-4 interval advantage.

Kilmainhamwood created early second-half chances that were wasted before Gary Yorke kicked another tremendous long-distance free in the 38th minute.

Kilmainhamwood looked to kick on and levelled through Kiernan and David Russell, but that was as good as it got.

St Brigid’s forged ahead again at the end of the third-quarter before the lost a player to a red card.

Six minutes from time Kilmainhamwood earned a penalty after Niall Conlan was impeded, but Kiernan's spot kick was expertly saved by the St Brigid's custodian.

Despite the introduction of the experienced trio, Andy Farrelly, Michael Shankey and Philly Moran in the second half, the 'Wood couldn’t get that crucial goal they craved and 12 wides proved costly.

A few positive notes however for Kilmainhamwood. Paul Carolan continues to excel in his new half-back position, possibly playing his best game in a 'Wood Jersey.

His brother David looked very competent at corner back and solid performances from newcomers Brian Cassidy, Niall Conlan, Callum Crosbie and Jamie Fagan, augurs well for the future.