Ratoath into last four as Kilmessan drop down

Ratoath put in a storming finish to get the better of Kilmessan by 0-23 to 2-16 in the SHC at Dunshaughln this evening. 

While Ratoath - a new, powerful force in Meath hurling - are on their way to the last four of the SHC Kilmessan were relegated to Group B after this clash. 

Kilmessan, who had to win and hope other results went their way, didn't make the best of starts but they led 1-11 to 0-11 at the break with their goal scored by Eoghan Harkin. In the second-half Pauraic Burke also found the net for Kilmessan to help them lead by 2-15 to 0-17 going into the closing stages. 

However Ratoath hit back and a late flurry of points saw them draw level before Cian Rogers hit over what proved to be the winning score.  

Padraig O'Hanrahan showed the way for Ratoath with nine points, eight frees,  while Bryan McMahon, Gavin McGowan and Ben McGowan were among others to contribute scores. Darren Reilly was in fine form for Kilmessan and hit over eight points but he coudn't save Ratoath from defeat. 

In the SHC quarter-finals Longwood now take on Kiltale while Trim play Killyon with Ratoath and Kildalkey through to the last four.