This was a game that had the lot - excitement, quality scores, six bookings and two dismissals. But the points eventually went to Louth. The turning point of the game came with the sendings off in the final minute of the first half, when Louth's full forward Mark Stansfield and Fermanagh's goalkeeper, Cormac McAdam, exchanged blows and referee Michael McGrath had no alternative but to send both off.

Defender Sean Breen went in goal and he showed his lack of experience when three minutes after the break Ollie McDonnell broke through for Louth's second score.

Within 12 minutes they had turned a five point half time defecit into a four point lead. Fermanagh weren't finished though and having cut the deficit to three points were awarded a penalty, converted by Gallagher, which left the sides level. But in injury time a Colin Kelly free gave Louth the victory points.