LEINSTER MFC ROUND-UP:CIARAN Byrne inspired Louth to a rare success over Meath, 1-13 to 1-11, in the first round of the Leinster MFC at Haggardstown on Saturday.
The corner-forward struck nine points, including eight from frees, and John Horan scored a sublime goal nine minutes after half-time.
Substitute Robert Farrelly gave Meath hope, scoring 1-2 as the Royals drew level with 10 minutes to go, but Louth finished strongly.
Three Scott Fulham goals helped Dublin cruise to an emphatic 4-15 to 0-8 win over Westmeath at Parnell Park. Wing-back Jack McCaffrey got the other goal.
Kildare had it all too easy over champions Longford on a scoreline of 1-18 to 0-8 at Newbridge.
Barry Coffey gave an exhibition of free-taking and Paddy Brophy got Kildare’s goal as Longford didn’t get off the mark until the 22nd minute.
Laois beat neighbours Carlow, 1-14 to 1-7, at Dr Cullen Park. The visitors had the game in safe keeping by half-time when they led by 1-10 to 1-3. Paul Kingston did most of the damage with 1-5, his goal coming from a penalty.
A three-goal blitz by Offaly in the first half paved the way for their 3-7 to 1-9 win over Wicklow at Aughrim.
Peter Cunningham set up the three goals for Niall Wynne, Aaron McDonagh and Brian Grehan in a 12-minute purple patch.
