Cross win Armagh decider

Published Sunday, 14 October 2012

Crossmaglen Rangers completed the first part of the defence of their All-Ireland title by claiming the Armagh Championship with a seven point win over Pearse Ógs at the Athletic Grounds on Sunday.

Cross player Jamie Clark celebrates. (© Presseye)

County star Jamie Clarke gave Cross the perfect start with a goal in the opening minute, but their opponents fought back gamely to take 0-7 to 1-3 lead.

However, Tony Kernan's goal put Cross back in front just before the break, and never relinquished their advantage.

Ógs managed to come back to within two points of their illustrious rivals, but another goal from Clarke near the end made sure of a 17th county title in 18 years for Cross.

Elsewhere All-Ireland Club Hurling Champions Loughgiel Shamrocks will face Down champions Portaferry in the Ulster Club Hurling final after both sides won their respective last 4 ties.

Both sides secured facile victories in their semi-final games, with Portaferry overcoming Swatragh of Derry by 0-23 to 1-6 and Loughgiel seeing off Middletown of Armagh by 1-25 to 0-12.