Ulster SFC: Monaghan 0-27 Cavan 2-14 - Hosts set up Derry semi-final
Monaghan wasted little time in extending their advantage after the restart, with Stephen Mooney pointing inside the opening minute following a precise delivery from Michael Bannigan. That score settled any early nerves, although Cavan showed improved intent with Patrick Lynch opening their second-half account before Emmanuel Shehu drove forward to split the posts and reduce the gap.For a brief spell, the Breffni men carried momentum, but Monaghan's composure in possession allowed them to steady the contest. David Garland and Andrew Woods added important scores as Gabriel Bannigan's side slowed the tempo, retaining control despite Cavan's increased pressure around the middle third.Cavan were handed a lifeline midway through the half when Tiarnan Madden finished to the net after good approach play, cutting the deficit and injecting belief into their challenge. However, Monaghan's response was immediate, with Michael Bannigan and Rory Beggan both on target to restore a measure of control.Monaghan's lead came under threat when Cavan were awarded a penalty after Niall Carolan was brought down following a driving run through the defence.Lynch stepped up, but Beggan produced a superb save low to his left, preserving Monaghan's advantage and halting the Breffni men's momentum at a crucial stage.Darragh Lovett later reignited Cavan's hopes when he found the net after a driving run from Lynch created the opening, the substitute finishing from close range to bring his side back within striking distance.Moments later, Beggan was called into action again, producing another crucial save to deny Lovett and maintain a four-point lead heading into the closing stages.However, the hosts regained composure as Monaghan's control of kick-outs and their ability to recycle possession in advanced areas proved decisive. Scores from Stephen Mooney and Stephen O'Hanlon helped maintain the gap as the Farney men managed the final minutes effectively.Beggan's accuracy from placed balls continued to punish Cavan, and a late red card for Favour Shehu for an off-the-ball challenge on Bobby McCaul summed up a frustrating afternoon for the Breffni men.
