IN AN historic day for Fermanagh, their footballers swept to a first All Ireland final since 1959 at Pairc Sean MacDiarmada, Carrick on Shannon yesterday, Roscommon started promisingly, but were undone by an extraordinary fourth minute goal. Fermanagh were awarded a 12 metre free by referee Seamus McCormack following a foul on Rory Gallagher. As Roscommon keeper Brian Morkan argued with the referee, Gallagher lobbed the ball to the net.
Roscommon regained the initiative, however, a Brendan O'Brien goal and some good points giving them a four point lead after 20 minutes.
Five minutes later, another Fermanagh goal after Roscommon keeper Morkan stepped back over the line while in possession - stemmed the tide. Still, Roscommon went in at half time with a one point lead, 1-6 to 2-2.
Roscommon scored three unanswered points after the break, but then their attack spluttered. Fermanagh clawed their way back before going two points ahead approaching the final 10 minutes.
Roscommon drew level again, setting up a tense climax. Fermanagh, with points from Mark Gallagher in the 57th minute and Raymond Gallagher on the stroke of full time, showed their mettle.
