\n<\/p>\n
In Sam McCartan Westmeath had the outstanding player on show.<\/p>\n
He scored 0-4, two from play from wing-back, as well two ’45’ in the final quarter when the game was in the mix.<\/p>\n
Pat Havern scored seven points from frees while Liam Kerr also hit 0-3 from play for Down, who had a nice start with Miceal Rooney scoring after just 12 seconds, Liam Kerr following up with his first point three minutes later.<\/p>\n
Both sides were guilty of poor shooting and misplaced passes in the opening quarter but they settled into it and the second quarter was a better spectacle.<\/p>\n
David Lynch and Robbie Forde strode forward to hit lovely points from play to draw Westmeath level after 19 minutes.<\/p>\n
Westmeath came into the game intent on stopping Down’s goal rush of 14 goals in seven games, and they were disciplined in defence.<\/p>\n
At the other end, Ryan O’Toole missed the best goal chance of the first half dragging his shot wide of the near post.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n