There was extra-time agony for Sligo hurlers in the Allianz League Division 3B final on Sunday as they were beaten by Longford on a scoreline of 3-10 to 2-15.
Played in atrocious conditions at the Connacht Centre of Excellence in Bekan, both teams struggled with the rain, hail and sleet in the first-half. It was Longford who adjusted the better and a early goal helped them into a 1-05 to 0-4 half time lead.
Both teams coped better with the elements in the second-half and produced some great hurling. Sligo struck for three goals in the second period through Kevin Gilmartin (twice) and Gerard O’Kelly-Lynch but each time Longford replied and there was nothing between the sides at the full time whistle, the 3-07 to 1-13 scoreline meant extra time.
Longford struck a decisive blow early in the first period of extra-time when they scored 1-1 within three minutes. Try as they might Sligo, couldn’t claw back the deficit.
Gerard O’Kelly-Lynch added late points but Sligo were unable to draw level by the final whistle.
Listen to the reaction of Sligo manager Daithi Hand here:
Longford earn promotion to Division 3A next season. For Sligo, another year in Division 3B beckons.
