Defender scores sensational goal from 55 metres in controversial Derry GAA final
Faughanvale's Michael Sweeney scored a sensational goal from 55 metres out as the Derry Intermediate Football final ended in a controversial goal.
Sweeney was at the heart of a Faughanvale side that were looking for their first championship title in 25 years at Celtic Park. In their way was Ballinderry, who took a 0-06 to 0-04 lead at half-time.
The magic moment came in the second half when full-back Sweeney received a pass from Odhran McClenaghan along the touchline.
Read more: Newbridge stun Glen as Malachy O'Rourke's reign ends with shock Derry SFC final loss - a recap
The Ballinderry goal was open as Ben McKinless had ventured up the pitch, but not many would have tried their luck from 55 metres out.
Sweeney let fly, however, and his perfectly struck effort curled from left to right over a hapless McKinless and into the net.
The goal ignited a thrilling second half that looked destined to go Faughanvale's way when - with Faughanvale one point up in injury time - Sweeney looked to have perfectly timed a tackle on Ballinderry's Ruairi Forbes as the latter charged towards goal.
But referee Richie Donoghue judged Sweeney to have committed a foul, and the free was converted to send the match into extra time.
In the end, extra time was enough to separate the sides who will go at it again in a replay next Saturday after a 2-10 to 1-13 draw.
The winners will be back out the following week in the Ulster Club Championship to take on Armagh champions Carrickcruppen.
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