Headline: Scotstown Advances to Ulster Club SFC Semi-Finals After Narrow Victory Over Magherafelt
Scotstown manager David McCague commended his players for their courage after the defending champions withstood a stunning comeback from Magherafelt, securing their place in the Ulster Club SFC semi-finals. The Monaghan team clinched a thrilling 2-21 to 2-20 win in Clones, needing a late equaliser from Nicky Sherlock to send the match into extra time before fending off another resurgence from Magherafelt.
“Bravery. The players have been brave,” McCague remarked to BBC Sport NI when asked about his team’s resilience in the match. He highlighted key moments, including Damien McArdle’s late victory during the final kick-out after Magherafelt briefly took the lead. He also praised Nicky Sherlock’s determination to score crucial points.
McCague noted, “The very last kick-out of the game, Max Maguire presented for a kick-out and that’s bravery. I think in the modern game the bravest team wins the game, and I think probably that’s the piece that got us over the line.”
The manager raised concerns about a contentious late free awarded against goalkeeper Rory Beggan for his challenge on Shane Heavron, which allowed Magherafelt to take the lead in stoppage time. “From my view of it, he got his hands to the ball and went out for a 45, or maybe he didn’t,” McCague said. He acknowledged that Beggan’s momentum carried him into Heavron but stressed that there was no intent to foul. “From my view of it, I felt it was a very harsh call.”
Despite his disagreement with the late decision, McCague expressed appreciation for referee Noel Mooney’s overall performance. “Seasons swing in these moments. But look, Noel Mooney is a top-class referee, and I really enjoyed how he refereed the game today,” he stated.
With a semi-final clash against St Eunan’s on the horizon, McCague remains confident that his team’s experience will be a major asset. “Our dressing room is full of fellas who have learned lessons over a long number of years, and they have a great capacity to communicate the right message to each other at the right time,” he said. “We’ll be hoping that we’re stronger as a result of the real test and challenge we got today.”
