A MASSIVE point from Darragh O’Donovan edged holders Doon past Ballybrown, 3-17 to 2-19, in an enthralling Limerick Senior Hurling Championship tussle at Kilmallock’s Fitzgerald Park.
O’Donovan and Pat Ryan Simon both struck timely second-half goals to set up a grandstand finish, after Ballybrown had led 1-11 to 1-8 at the interval.
The goals were traded by Donal Coughlan and county U20 Barry Adams.
Elsewhere, Ahane relegated Patrickswell after a positive 1-21 to 2-14 in Claughaun.
With a great haul of 10 points, Tom Morrissey brought his C’ship tally to 0-43, over 50 per cent of his club’s total return.
And, favourites Na Piarsaigh had the measure of Kilmallock, 2-23 to 1-14, at Rathkeale’s Neville Park.
All-Star Peter Casey returned to the fold for the winners.
Kevin Downes (0-7), Dylan Lynch (1-2) and Ronan Lynch (0-4) were all in fine scoring form for Shane O’Neill’s side.
In Group Two, with a match (v Kildimo Pallaskenry) to spare, Monaleen secured a place in next season’s top tier and knockout stages with a hard-earned victory over Newcastle West, 1-18 to 0-19, at Seán Finn Park, Rathkeale.
Eoin Brislane’s side were out of sight at one stage only to be reeled in by their plucky opponents.
The decisive score was the game’s only goal in the opening half from the skilful Andrew La Touche Cosgrave.
Elsewhere, a strong second-half showing helped Mungret St. Paul’s easily overcome neighbours Kildimo Pallaskenry, 1-18 to 0-10, in Clarina.
Liam Lynch (1-5) and Niall Mulcahy (0-5) both caught the eye of the victors.
And, two flash goals from four-time All-Ireland winning Limerick captain Declan Hannon shortly after the break helped Adare overcome relegation-threatened Dromin Athlacca, 4-17 to 1-15 in Ballingarry.
Patrick Kearney (1-7) again impressed for the Maiguesiders.
