D2 Roundup – Armagh and Kerry impress to book final berths

Armagh and Kerry will contest the 2022 Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 2 Final, after they were both victorious in their respective semi-finals this weekend.

Both remain unbeaten and have been impressive this year, promotion on the agenda for both as Kerry will look to avoid another final loss this year.

Armagh 7-18 Laois 1-9; O’Raghallaighs, Drogheda, Louth

Armagh have their position in this year’s league final, after a strong showing over Laois on Saturday.  The Orchard County have been in great form this year getting three wins from three and a final spot is deserved for them.

A great opening half saw Armagh lead 4-9 to 0-3 at half-time, Niamh Reel, Aimee Mackin, Catherine Marley and Blathin Mackey all rattled Eimear Barry’s net as Armagh streaked into the lead.

The excellent Aimee Mackin finished the encounter with 1-6, while Catherine Marley, Blathin Mackin and Niamh Reel all raised further green flags in the second half, as they showed their quality and experience of a senior outfit.

Kerry 1-14 Monaghan 1-11; Tuam Stadium

Kerry will appear in back to back final appearances with a win over Monaghan, The Kingdom lost the 2021 Division 2 Final to Meath at Croke Park but are now back within touching distance of promotion, edging a tight contest in Galway.

Monaghan had the better of the game in the opening half, Jodie McQuilan striking the back of the Kerry net after 19 minutes, as they started to state their claim in the contest, taking a 1-6 to 0-7 lead into the interval.

Into the second half it was the kingdom who showed their composure and hunger to make this years final, Louise Ní Mhuireachtaigh an ever present in the forward line, finishing the day with 1-9, hitting the net 12 minutes into the second half, her free taking punishing Monaghan landing 0-08 all afternoon.