Longwood’s hurlers secured their first victory of the 2023 League with a hard-fought victory over parochial rivals Killyon.

Motivation is never lacking in this fixture and so it proved again on Sunday morning. Every ball was keenly contested on Killyon’s well maintained pitch.

Longwood were quick out of the blocks with Jim Dorran bagging an early goal. Dorran continues to answer the call, his love of hurling and of club can never be questioned, he was industrious throughout the hour and finished with an impressive 1-2 to his name. He was ably assisted by the returning Joe Stenson, making his first appearance of the season, Kieran Murtagh and Louis Butler in the forward line.

The midfield combination of Sean & Thomas Coloe performed very well. Both picked up injuries during the game but continued through the pain barrier to ensure that victory would not be denied. Warriors both! The fact that they also contributed 1-5 between them, speaks volumes.

Longwood’s defence was tenacious throughout. Mark Kennedy, Niall Mulvey and Adam Leacy were conspicuous for the duration the contest.

Killyon introduced Paddy Coyne and Shane Clarke early in the second half and the latter quickly announced himself with two goals, both of which were finished clinically.

To Longwood’s credit, they stood firm and remained resilient. They were the better team for the remainder of the game. A brace of long-range points from Sean Coloe and a series of Anthony Healy frees saw Longwood forge clear and they were able to control the closing stages of the contest.

So two points on the board and something to build on. Longwood’s next game sees them host Kilskyre/Moylagh in a couple of weeks. In the meantime, the footballers will host Clann Na nGael on Tuesday evening.

Longwood: Paul Gill, Cathal Campbell, Mark Kennedy, Adam Leacy, David Coloe, Niall Mulvey, Sam King, Sean Coloe (0-4), Thomas Coloe (1-1), Jim Dorran (1-2), Joe Stenson, Kieran Murtagh, Karl Ennis (0-1), Anthony Healy (1-8), Louis Butler. Subs: Gavin Griffith for Ennis.