Kilmessan recorded a rare win over Kildalkey as they progressed to the Brendan Davis Cup semi finals courtesy of a 1-8 to 0-8 win over their rivals at Boardsmill last night.

Kevin Keena got the only goal of the game midway through the first half and it proved to be the vital score in a tough game.

Both sides fielded weakened teams as their county players were not involved, while injuries also played a part.

Nonetheless, the intensity was still there and both sides gave it their all, even if the quality of hurling was not up to the level expected by both these sides.

Kildalkey started the better with points from Mark Healy and Jack Harmon (free), but Keena's goal helped Kilmessan to a one-point half time lead.

In the second half, scores were hard to come by as both defences were well on top. For Kildalkey, Maurice Keogh was outstanding at full back, while Peter Farrell dominated the centre back position for Kilmessan.

When Keena was moved out to the centre forward position, he swept over a couple of points and although Kildalkey went in search of a goal, the Kilmessan defence held firm.

The 2011 county champions were certainly giving youth its chance and the likes of Mark and Martin Healy, Harmon and Luke Rickard will have no problem adapting to life in the senior ranks.

For Kilmessan, Farrell and Keena were ably assisted by Martin Horan and Danny Maguire. Tweet

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