Football fans agree on one thing after first half of Leinster final between Meath and Louth

Meath and Louth fans could agree on one thing at half-time of an enthralling Leinster football final at Croke Park.

The Royals held a single point lead at the break and would be forgiven for wondering how they didn't have a much bigger lead.

While Meath began to dominate kickouts and possession as the half wore on, they were sucker-punched by two brilliant Louth goals.

The first was a low-bullet shot from Ryan Burns after a fluent attacking move by the Wee County in the 24th minute. The second was a trademark run from Craig Lennon before a composed finish to find the top corner.

Louth will feel lucky to be only one point behind a Meath side that outplayed them for much of the first half.

But both sets of fans agreed on social media that the new football rules were making for a great spectacle.

While there have been some detractors since the Football Review Committee introduced a raft of new rules for this season, they have undoubtedly been outweighed by fans of the changes.

One person on social media wrote: "Anyone cribbing about the new football rules just look at the Louth-Meath game. Enthralling stuff.

Another person said: Want a lesson how defend look at Louth. Forcing Meath into mistakes but Meath pressing the kick out is causing Louth problems. A great spectacle to watch. The new rules are making a difference.

Another wrote: No exaggeration to say the new rules are absolutely transformational. Everyone who loves watching football owes Jim Gavin and the review committee eternal gratitude!"

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