Louth Dominates Cavan in Allianz Football League Clash

Kingspan Breffni Park witnessed a commanding performance by Louth as they defeated Cavan 1-22 to 1-12 in their Allianz Football League Division 2 encounter on Saturday, February 28th, 2026. This result marks a significant turnaround for Louth, having lost to Cavan in the previous two seasons.

Wee County Secure Decisive Victory

Louth’s victory was built on a determined performance and slick attacking play, establishing an 18-point lead before Cavan managed to narrow the gap in the final quarter. The match was played before a crowd of 3,894 spectators.

Cavan Struggle in Sixth Defeat

For Cavan, the defeat represents a sixth loss in seven matches this season and their worst performance yet, with a noticeable dip in confidence. Despite a win over Kildare last week, their form has been concerning.

Early Exchanges and Louth’s Control

Cavan started brightly with a point from Cian Shekleton within the first 20 seconds. However, Louth responded quickly with a flowing move that was initially saved by Liam Brady, with Ryan Burns following up with a point. Shortly after, Brían O’Connell scored, and Sam Mulroy equalized from a free after a foul on Craig Lennon. The visitors then seized control with a ruthless spell of scoring which exposed Cavan’s defensive frailties and lack of ball-winning options at midfield.

Midfield Dominance and First-Half Surge

Cavan’s decision to hold Gearoid McKiernan in reserve backfired, as he was called upon after just 15 minutes with the score already at 0-09 to 0-02 in favor of Louth. Tommy McDonnell scored a two-pointer, and Sam Mulroy added two points to extend Louth’s lead. Ryan Burns also contributed with a well-taken point, turning his marker and curling a shot in off the crossbar.

Second-Half Consolidation and Cavan’s Rally

Louth continued their dominance after the restart, controlling possession and adding to their tally through Tadhg McDonnell, Burns, and Downey. Cavan attempted a rally with a goal from Ciaran Brady and points from Lynch, but Louth’s lead proved insurmountable.

Final Score and Team Lineups

The final score stood at Louth 1-22, Cavan 1-12.

Cavan: Liam Brady, Jason McLoughlin, Paddy Meade, Brían O’Connell (0-01), Oisin Brady, Eoin Clarke, Gerard Smith (0-01), Ryan Brady (0-01), Conor Brady, Ciaran Brady, Cormac Brady, Peter Corrigan, Cian Shekleton (0-02), Patrick Lynch (0-04, 2ptf, 1f, 1 ’45’), Dara McVeety (0-01)

RTÉ Sport

Subs: Gearoid McKiernan (0-02f) for E Clarke (16), Niall Carolan for Ryan Brady (half-time), Ciaran Brady (Corofin, 1-00) for G Smith (49), Tiarnan Madden for Ciaran Brady (49), Thomas Smith for N Carolan (69).

RTÉ Sport

Louth: Niall McDonnell, Padraic Tinnelly, Dermot Campbell, Conal McKeever, Tadhg McDonnell (0-03, 2pt), Emmet Carolan, Craig Lennon, Dara McDonnell, Conor Early, Paul Matthews (0-03, 2pt), Sam Mulroy (0-06, 2ptf, 2f, 2pt), Conor Grimes (0-01), Kieran McArdle (0-01), Ciaran Downey (0-04), Ryan Burns (1-04)

RTÉ Sport

Subs: Ciaran Keenan for R Burns (43), Eoghan Callaghan for C McKeever (54), Daire Nally for T McDonnell (62), Tommy Durnin for P Matthews (64), James Maguire for K McArdle (69).

RTÉ Sport

Referee: Paul Faloon (Down)

Looking Ahead

Louth’s impressive form positions them well in Division 2, while Cavan will need to address their recent struggles to regain momentum.