A goal by Peter Duffy in the 23rd minute of the second half was the score that set up this badly needed first win for Monaghan at the expense of neighbours, Cavan, in Clones yesterday. Monaghan opened with two quick points as Cavan showed early nerves, but a Jason Reilly goal after eight minutes saw them hold the advantage for most of the first half, despite having caused problems for themselves by missing too many good chances.

Monaghan led by 0-5 to 1-1 at half-time and extended that lead to five points three minutes into the second half with a point by Mark Daly and a goal from a penalty by Declan Smith, after Peter Duffy had been brought down.

Cavan then hit their best spell with six unanswered points, three from Ronan Carolan and one each from Dermot McCabe, Raymond Cunningham and Peter Reilly to regain a one-point lead at the end of the third quarter.

Monaghan replied strongly, a brace of points from Kevin Hughes restored them to the lead and then Peter Duffy crashed in that all-important second goal after a great run by Padraig McShane.

Cavan went all out to retrieve the situation but could only manage a late point from Ronan Carolan.