Cork and Galway Lead the Charge in National Football League
The Lidl National League is heating up, with Cork and Galway establishing themselves as the teams to beat in Division 1. Both sides, last season’s Division 2 finalists, are demonstrating impressive form early in the 2026 campaign.
Cork’s Unbeaten Run and Waterford’s Struggles
Cork continues to be the only unbeaten team in Division 1, solidifying their position with a 1-12 to 3-5 victory over Waterford at Páirc Uí Rinn. A key moment in the match was Waterford being reduced to 14 players, allowing Cork to capitalize with a 1-05 to 0-01 scoring run. Aoife Healy scored a crucial goal for Cork, while Katie Quirke led the scoring with 0-06. Despite two goals from Brid McMaugh, Waterford suffered their second consecutive defeat.
Galway’s Momentum Continues with Win Over Kerry
Galway, having defeated Cork in the 2025 Division 2 final, maintained their challenge with a 1-11 to 1-09 win against reigning champions Kerry in Tralee. Leanne Coen’s goal early in the second half proved pivotal, extending Galway’s lead. Danielle O’Leary scored for Kerry, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Galway’s strong performance.
Kildare’s Boost and Meath’s Setback
Kildare secured their first win of the campaign with a decisive 4-08 to 1-10 victory over Meath. Goals from Gillian Wheeler, Mayah Doyle, Alannah Prizeman, and Aoife Murnane propelled Kildare to success, while Meath suffered their third defeat.
Relegation Battle Intensifies
The relegation battle in Division 1 is becoming increasingly tight. Armagh and Dublin drew 2-11 apiece, leaving both teams in relegation spots with just two rounds of games remaining. The bottom five teams are separated by only two points, including Kerry, Meath, and Dublin – all former All-Ireland senior championship winners.
Division 2 and Beyond
In Division 2, Cavan strengthened their position with a win over Monaghan. Donegal also edged out Mayo by a single point, and Tyrone recorded a strong victory over Wexford, netting four times. Across Divisions 3 and 4, Fermanagh, Roscommon, Louth, Clare, Leitrim, Wicklow, Carlow, and Sligo all secured wins.
Did you know?
Galway defeated Cork in the 2025 Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 2 final.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on the relegation battle in Division 1 – with just two points separating five teams, the final rounds are sure to be dramatic.
FAQ
Q: Who are the current leaders in Division 1?
A: Cork and Galway are currently setting the pace in Division 1.
Q: Which teams are facing relegation in Division 1?
A: Armagh and Dublin currently occupy the two relegation spots.
Q: What was the score of the match between Cork and Waterford?
A: Cork defeated Waterford 1-12 to 3-5.
Q: Who scored the goal for Galway against Kerry?
A: Leanne Coen scored the goal for Galway.
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