Allianz Football League semi-final round up
DESPITE a late Monaghan rally Dublin stayed cool to claim a 0-17 to 0-16 Allianz Football League semi-final win at Croke Park on Sunday.
Seeking a third League title in a row Dublin trailed with 15 minutes remaining before a flurry of scores from Dean Rock, Emmet O'Conghaile edged them ahead.
Monaghan came thundering back again, but Dublin held on to set up an April 26 decider with Cork, who had defeated Donegal earlier at headquarters.
Dublin's clash with Monaghan was lively from the start as Jim Gavin's side departed at half-time leading by 0-9 to 0-7.
After the restart substitute Dick Clerkin made an an impact for Monaghan, who also had Conor McManus and Kieran Hughes in decent form.
A Jack McCaffrey score had Dublin in front by three late on, but efforts from Clerkin and McManus left only the narrowest of margins between the teams.
In the dying seconds Monaghan poured forward in search of a leveller, but Dublin held out to win a match watched by 20,013.
Colm O'Neill's remarkable spring continued as Cork defeated Donegal by 4-11 to 0-19.
O'Neill, ravaged by knee injuries in recent years, kicked 2-2 for Brian Cuthbert’s charges during an open encounter.
Bright at the start Donegal led by 0-7 to 0-3, but a Tom Clancy goal for Cork was crucial.
Goals from Brian Hurley and O'Neill (2) allowed Cork take control after the restart.
