Veteran Callaghan inspires stunning Naas comeback

September 05, 2022

Naas' Eamonn Callaghan. ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo.

39-year-old Eamonn Callaghan inspired reigning champions Naas to a stunning comeback victory over Sarsfields in yesterday's Kildare SFC quarter-finals at St Conleth's Park.

Sars appeared to be in control as they led by six points (0-3 to 0-9) at half-time as Joe Murphy's charges struggled to gain any foothold in the contest. But suddenly Naas got firing and scored a succession of points from new Carlow selector Callaghan, who finished with 0-7, to take the lead with 20 minutes remaining, despite having Darragh Kirwan sent off.

A goal by Con Kavanagh had Sarsfields soon back in front but Kevin Cummins' 58th minute penalty proved the decisive score in a 1-14 to 1-11 win for the holders. Naas will take on Celbridge in the last four.

In the curtain-raiser, Clane qualified for their first semi-final since 2007 thanks to a convincing 3-16 to 1-9 victory at Eadestown's expense. Tom Cribbin's side now face Athy.


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