McNally leads the way as Kildare blitz Meath in fabulous opening half of Leinster SFC semi-final

Meath 0-4

Kildare hold a commanding nine-point half-time lead over neighbours Meath in tonight's Leinster SFC semi-final, with Cathal McNally proving to be the biggest threat to the Royals' defence so far in Tullamore.

The Johnstownbridge forward has hit 1-3 already in a hugely impressive display in which he has taken every opportunity afforded to him, with his booming left wing point in the 18th minute the pick of his scores so far. Daniel Flynn and the returning Paddy Brophy have chipped in with two points from play apiece, while Kevin Feely has struck three points, one of which was a monstrous effort from 50 metres off his left boot.

Meath have been both wasteful and ponderous going forward thus far, but the pressure the Kildare defence have put on their opponents has been nothing short of superb. Ollie Lyons, Johnny Byrne, Mick O'Grady and Eoin Doyle have all made important interventions at different times, while the physicality the Lilywhites have brought to proceedings has been admirable.

On a blisteringly hot evening in Tullamore with no wind, Kildare should see this one home if they hold their composure in the second half.