University of Limerick have too much for ATU Donegal in Sigerson Cup opener

University of Limerick ran out comfortable winners in the opening round of the Sigerson Cup against ATU Donegal.
ATU Donegal 0-8 University of Limerick 3-12 

In the end, 13 points separated the sides at the University of Galway Connacht GAA AirDome in Bekan.

Goals from Daniel Walsh, Ciaran Downes, and Gearoid Hassett proved decisive as Declan Brouder's team dominated as they aim to go one better following last year's final loss to UCC. By halftime, UL were leading 1-8 to 0-3, showcasing an impressive performance in the second quarter and extending their lead as the match progressed.

ATU Donegal managed scores in the first half through Jack McSharry, Jack Gallagher, and Rory O'Donnell, but they struggled to cope with UL's fast and efficient counter-attacking strategy.

Noteworthy points from Ciaran Downes, Paul Keaney, and Darragh Heneghan signalled UL's determination before Walsh's goal in the 20th minute. UL continued their dominance in the second half, with dynamic performances from Downes, Frank Irwin, and Keaney, establishing a commanding position.

The game was effectively sealed with a rapid 1-3 without reply after the restart, with Downes contributing 1-1, and Conor Ryan and Darragh Heneghan adding further points. A goal from substitute Gearoid Hassett in the 48th minute, although ATU persisted and secured points from Blake McGarvey (2), substitute Bobby McGettigan (2), and Cian McEntee.

UL will now take on Maynooth, while Maxi Curran’s ATU Donegal side face another road trip next week, as they take on MTU Cork.

ATU Donegal: Nevin O'Donnell (Shannon Gaels, Co Leitrim); Jake Kelly (Glenswilly), Dylan Dorrian (Milford), Paddy Teevan, (Ballyhaise, Co Cavan); Kyle Murray (Aodh Ruadh), Oisin Caulfield (Na Rossa), Dylan Doogan (St Eunan’s); Rory O’Donnell (Milford, 0-1), Jack Gallagher (Glenswilly, 0-1); Kealan Dunleavy (Glenswilly), Luke McGlynn (Glenfin), Ryan O’Donnell (Kilcar); Jack McSharry (Killybegs, 0-1), Blake McGarvey (Cloughaneely, 0-2), Cian McEntee (Gaoth Dobhair 0-1). Subs: Allen Palosa (Downings) for Murray; B McGettigan (Termon, 0-2) for Ryan O’Donnell; Anthony Doherty (Carndonagh) for Doogan.

University of Limerick: C Flaherty; C Keogh, C Moriarty, M Dempsey; E O’Riordan, C Glennon, D Walsh (1-0); C Ryan (0-1), B McNamara; D Heneghan (0-2), P Keaney (0-2), F Irwin (0-2); P Walsh (0-1), C Downes (1-3), C McHale. Subs: G Hassett (1-0) for Keaney; P O’Driscoll for D Walsh; C O’Grady (0-1) for McHale; S McDonnell for Downes.

Referee: James Molloy (Galway)