Comeback kings Raphoe win Linden Cup

Raphoe came from 2-0 down to win the Ulster Linden Cup final on Sunday in Cookstown.

Raphoe 4 CIYMS 3

Raphoe were bidding to win a title they last won in 20213.

Matthew Lecky and Sam McKnight went close early on, but CI held firm against a string of Raphoe penalty corners.

Raphoe were punished when CI took the lead at the end of the first quarter, a reverse stick shot finding it way past David Moore in the Raphoe goal.

Brian Anderson wins an all-Twin Towns final at North West Zones

Five Donegal boxers won finals in the ring with a raft of walkover wins significantly boosting the county's representation at the Ulsters.

Raphoe started the second quarter strong, CI denying Jonny Long and Lecky an equaliser.

Raphoe pushed hard for a goal but yet again found themselves letting in another, fout minutes shy of half-time.

Lecky and Goudie were both denied again and just before the half-time whistle CI had a player yellow carded for a high wreckless challenge.

Two-nil down, it was ll or nothing now for Raphoe. Two early penalty corners saw Raphoe finally dispatch one, a powerful drag flick from Goudie.

Moments later Goudie equalised with a replica of his first goal.

Raphoe continued the onslaught on the CI goal, but despite the goalkeeper's best efforts Raphoe scored again. Tom Eaton was the scorer, latching onto a rebounded effort.

Ian McGonigle produced some important tackles to ensure the scoreline stayed in Raphoe's favour.

Raphoe got off to the perfect start in the fourth quarter as Jonny Long won a penalty corner, which was dispatched by Lecky, a reverse stick shot too strong for the CI 'keeper.

Raphoe started to play with more possesion, Lee Stewart and McGonigle controlling the play in midfield.

Lecky ound himself in the book, a green card and a two-minute sin bin followed shortly after by a yellow card having just returned to the field.

CI took advantage and pulled a goal back but it wasn’t enough.

Moore, Meehan and Stewart stayed strong at the back with an experienced performance as Raphoe held on to win a memorable Linden Cup.