A late goal from Ultan Kelm that proved the difference as Fermanagh edged Longford by 1-12 to 0-12 at In Pearse Park to move into the last eight of the Tailteann Cup.

A doubt coming into this first round clash, Sean Quigley’s three second-half points proved crucial for the Ernesiders as the Roslea sharpshooter’s third put them in front on 64 minutes before Kelm’s strike settled the issue five minutes later.

Longford started the stronger side and Darren Gallagher’s three frees helped them hold a 0-5 to 0-1 lead after the opening 18 minutes.

Ryan Jones and Quigley (free) kept the visitors right in touch but Kevin Diffley’s fine score ensured it was the Midlanders that went in at the break with a 0-6 to 0-4 advantage.

Keelin McGann stretched the lead back to three for the Leinster men early in the restart prior to Quigley and Jones sailing over points to level matters.

Conall Jones put Kieran Donnelly’s side into their first lead in the 45th minute and, while Longford would get it all square again, Quigley’s free saw them fall behind and the hammer blow came from Kelm with a minute left in regulation.

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