Roscommon senior champions St Brigid’s sent out a clear signal of intent with a clinical performance which saw them brush aside the challenge of Galway champions Salthill/Knocknacarra in Pearse Stadium last Sunday. They are now just one hour away from claiming their third Connacht title on the trot but Ballaghadereen will be no pushovers.
Salthill were forced to field without Roscommon native Gary Cox and were dealt a second blow after six minutes when star forward Seamie Crowe was forced off injured. Thing may have been closer had both of these been present throughout but Kevin McStay’s side looked like men on a mission.
The Kiltoom men held a 0-8 to 0-4 half time lead and increased that by three points by the 40th minute. The home side did their best to claw their way back but the Saints were in no mood to keep the door open and finished the game strongly. Frankie Dolan was unerring from placed balls and top-scored with 0-6 while Senan Kilbride weighed in with 0-5.
While all focus now turns to the Connacht decider on Sunday week, on this evidence the ingredients are there to retain the provincial crown and have a big say in the all-Ireland campaign.
