Donaghmoyne make history with 20th consecutive title

Monaghan club Donaghmoyne made history by winning their twentieth county championship in a row by defeating Emyvale on a score-line of 3-15 to 1-6.

The opening goal came from corner-forward Aoife Burns, whilst Catriona McConnell and Lauren Garland combined to do the damage as they raced into a seven point lead after just ten minutes.

Emyvale did close the gap to go into the break just three points behind the Fontenoys.

In the second half, Donaghmoyne raced out of the blocks with a second goal from midfielder Cora Courtney before McConnell added a third to put the game beyond any doubt.

Remarkably, goalkeeper Linda Martin, corner-back Joanne Geoghegan, centre-half back Sharon Courtney and wing-back Hazel Kingham have all been there for all 20 titles.

Elsewhere Cork county champions Mourneabbey were defeated in the first round of the Munster championship after suffering a shock defeat to Waterford champions Ballymacarbry.

Ballymac collected their 41st Waterford title in a row last weekend, were 3-7 to 0-7 winners at a blustery Clyda Rovers GAA Grounds.

The Waterford side led by 2-3 to 0-1 at half time, with goals coming from Aileen Wall and Brid McMaugh.

The reigning Munster champions were aiming for their eight consecutive title, bounced back thanks to points from Doireann and Brid O'Sullivan, but were unable to raise a green flag.

Claire Walsh bagged the third goal of the afternoon to rubber stamp Ballymac's passage through to the next round where they will play Kerry champions Southern Gaels.