Meath unable to save themselves from the drop

The spectre of relegation that hung over Meath throughout their NHL Div 2A campaign became a bleak reality today when they lost a do or die clash, 1-21 to 2-21, to Carlow at Pairc Tailteann.

This was a game Meath sought bravely to win and there were spells when they looked like they might push on and do just that but in the end the visitors ran out winners to copperfasten their own safety.

Carlow led 0-12 to 0-10 at the interval and they were in front for most of the way. They were greatly helped in their quest for victory by two goals scored by Chris Nolan in the second-half.

Meath were in front only briefly and they nabbed a goal themselves through Jack Walsh late on but they were unable to save themselves from defeat despite a spirited display.

Jack Regan hit nine points for Meath, six frees, two '65s' but the home side just couldn't get another goal or two that would really have boosted their cause with Carlow goalkeeper Brian Tracey making super late saves from Nicholas Potterton and David Reilly. Nicholas Potterton and Patrick Potterton had outstanding games in the midfield sector.

With Martin Kavanagh hitting 15 points, Carlow managed to sustain their lead for most of the game. They led when it mattered most, at the final whistle, and consigned Meath to relegation.

SCORERS

Carlow - Martin Kavanagh 0-15 10 frees, two 65s; Chris Nolan 2-0; Sean Murphy 0-2; Conor Kehoe 0-1; Diarmuid Byrne 0-1; Niall Bolgan 0-1; Kevin McDonald 0-1.

Meath - Jack Regan 0-9 six freees, two '65s'; Jack Walsh 1-0; Mikey Cole 0-3; James Kelly 0-2; David Reilly 0-2; Shane Whitty 0-1; Michael Burke 0-1; Patrick Potterton 0-1; Stephen Morris 0-1; Damien Healy 0-1.