Carlow footballers sprang a major surprise yesterday by beating fancied Fermanagh at Dr Cullen Park, Carlow.

Carlow showed great composure as they scored a merited victory over the Northern side and led by 1-8 to 0-5, after playing into the strong wind.

Full forward Johnny Nevin scored their goal in the 23rd minute.

Quick Carlow points on resumption from Mark Carpenter and Mark Dowling stretched their lead and although Fermanagh fought back to reduce the leeway to five points, they were unable to conjure up the goal that might have sparked a more substantial comeback.

Carlow: J Clarke; B Farrell, A Corden, P O'Dwyer; J Kavanagh, K Walker, J Byrne; S Kavanagh (1-1), Philip Nolan; Pat Nolan, J McGrath, M Carpenter (0-2); M Dowling (0-4), J Nevin (1-1), M Nolan (0-3). Sub: D Tracey for Pat Nolan.

Fermanagh: C McAdam; P Courtney, P McGuinness, M Lilly; R Curran, K Gallagher, T Callaghan; P Brewster (0-1), D McGrath; C Courtney, T Brewster (0-2), S Maguire (0-1); R Gallagher (0-5), S Quinn, S King (0-1). Subs: D McNulty for T Brewster; J Gilheaney for McGrath.

Referee: P Fox (Westmeath).