Roscommon relegated after Derry defeat

Roscommon have been relegated from Division 1 of the Allianz Football League after a heavy defeat to Derry at Celtic Park today (Sunday).

The Rossies were only three points adrift at half-time (1-8 to 1-5), with Donie Smith taking advantage of a mix-up in the Derry defence to score the visitors' goal.

Davy Burke's side cut the deficit to the minimum early in the second half (1-8 to 1-7), thereby raising the hopes of the travelling supporters.

But Derry eventually pulled away and, aided by a goal from Lachlan Murray, Mickey Harte's side went on to claim a comfortable 2-19 to 1-9 victory.

In order to avoid relegation, Roscommon needed to beat Derry and hope that Kerry would defeat Galway. The Kingdom held up their side of the bargain with a two-point win in Killarney but the Tribesmen still stay up.

The Rossies will compete in Division 2 next year, as will Monaghan, who were already relegated before today's narrow defeat to Mayo.

Derry will face All-Ireland champions Dublin in the Division 1 league final, with the Dubs hammering Tyrone at Croke Park today.