Rian O’Neill’s last‑second goal sends Crossmaglen into Ulster semi‑final

Crossmaglen Rangers secured a dramatic 1‑22 to 2‑18 victory over Gowna in the Ulster Club SFC quarter‑final, advancing to the semi‑final after a last‑second goal from Rian O’Neill.

Gowna led 2‑13 to 1‑5 after the first 25 minutes, with Ryan Donohue adding a goal for the Cavan side. Despite a strong defensive effort from Cillian Brady, Cormac Brady, Ryan McGahern and Fionán Brady, Gowna maintained a comfortable lead into the second half.

Crossmaglen turned the tide through a series of scores from Rian O’Neill, Oisín O’Neill, Pearse Blessing and captain Callum Cumiskey. The Armagh club narrowed the gap and eventually took the lead, with Seamus Teelan adding a point in stoppage time.

Gowna briefly reclaimed the lead when Ryan Donohue kicked a goal, but a controversial free awarded to Oisín O’Neill set up the decisive moment. Rian O’Neill, having already contributed 0‑5, delivered a stunning strike under pressure to clinch the win.

The match also saw Donegal’s St Eunan’s progress to the semi‑finals after a seven‑point victory over Erne Gaels.

Scorers for Crossmaglen were O O’Neill (0‑8), R O’Neill (0‑5), C McConville (1‑1) and others; Gowna’s scorers included R Donohue (1‑3) and Cian Madden (0‑4).

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Donovan Kelly / Pexels.