Peter Canavan attributed Fermanagh's poor start against Cavan to the 10-week layoff they had since playing Meath in the final round of the Allianz League.

The Erne County lost today's Ulster SFC quarter-final at Brewster Park by two points after failing to score in the first 26 minutes, and speaking to the BBC afterwards, their manager ruefully reflected: "Cavan had already played in the championship and were up to the pace much better than us. The benefit of having played recently worked for Cavan and we are left to rue our bad start."

The Tyrone legend, who watched the game from the stand, was convinced his side would go on to win after drawing level on 0-11 apiece with 13 minutes to go.

"I felt that if we were within touching distance with five or 10 minutes to go we could win it. I was expecting a big finish from our boys and maybe with a bit more composure they would have won," he added.

Fermanagh will now take their place in tomorrow morning's All-Ireland qualifier first round draw. Tweet

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