Joe McDonagh Cup

Down 2-26 Kerry 2-19

Down finished with a real flourish to secure a valuable Joe McDonagh Cup win over Kerry at Ballycran.

With 13 minutes remaining Down trailed by a point, 2-15 to 1-17, but Chris Egan's goal proved to be crucial.

Padraig Boyle replied with a point for Kerry, but Donal Hughes (2), Caolan Taggarty, and Pearse Óg McCrickard (2), and Daithí Sands steered Ronan Sheehan's team clear.

It was an exciting encounter throughout as a ninth minute Finn Turpin goal edged Down 1-3 to 0-4 ahead.

Kerry were defiant as Niall Mulcahy instantly replied with a major for the visitors.

The teams eventually departed level, 1-11 each, at the interval.

It was similarly hard fought after the restart, but Down had nudged three points in front prior to a Luke Rochford goal for Kerry.

Boyle guided Kerry into the lead, but Egan replied with the decisive goal for a determined Down, who claimed victory.