All-Ireland intermediate football title claimed by Mayo champs Crossmolina

The script couldn't have been written any other way. With time almost up, Crossmolina had a chance from the penalty spot to win the All-Ireland IFC title and up stepped Conor Loftus to shoulder the pressure and convert the opportunity.

The kick, low and hard to the bottom left corner, ensured victory over Ballinderry on a 1-12 to 0-13 scoreline and just minutes afterwards, captain Mikie Loftus dedicated the win to Roisin Cryan, Conor's late fiancée who passed away tragically just a few short weeks ago.

Getting back to football is all part of the healing process and victory should help the community a great deal.

As for the match itself, there was little between the teams all through. It was 0-6 apiece at the break but the game swung one way and then the other in the second half as play opened up a bit.

Crossmolina went 0-11 to 0-8 ahead on 52 minutes but the Derry and Ulster champions came roaring back to eke out a two-point advantage (0-13 to 0-11) with regular time almost up.

Five minutes of injury time were announced and Crossmolina piled on the pressure, pulling a point back through Niall Coggins – and it could have been a goal as the Deel Rovers opened up the Ballinderry defence, not for the only time in the game.

One last chance was created and Crossmolina had a penalty. One last chance from the spot to win the game and claim the title. Conor Loftus made no mistake.

*See Tuesday's print edition for a report and reaction from Croke Park