A crazy game.

The rivals met in what was already a highly charged fixture. It was a repeat of last year’s Leinster final, where Louth lifted the Delaney Cup for the first time in almost seven decades. Tension was clear from the opening whistle and it did not take long for tempers to spill over.

Referee Brendan Griffin had barely restarted play before he was forced to halt proceedings. A melee broke out near midfield, with several players involved in pushing and shoving. One Meath player was even left without his jersey during the brief but heated exchange.

After consulting with his officials, Griffin issued black cards to four players. Louth duo Ciaran Downey and Sam Mulroy were sent to the sin bin, along with Meath pair Brian O'Halloran and Seán Rafferty.

The early flashpoint stunned supporters who had barely settled into their seats. It also set the tone for a contest that already carried plenty of edge following last season’s provincial showdown.

Given the enormity of the fixture and the fact that it straightaway lived up to its billing, fans were livid that it not been shown online or on TV.

Despite the chaotic opening, play eventually resumed and both sides attempted to refocus on football. Still, the incident became the main talking point among fans, with many surprised at how quickly discipline became an issue.

Encounters between Meath and Louth rarely lack passion, but this latest chapter added another layer to a rivalry that continues to grow in intensity. With league points on the line and local pride at stake, the opening seconds served as a reminder that these clashes are never short on drama.

As the season progresses, both counties will hope the focus shifts back to the football rather than the flashpoints that defined the early moments in Croke Park.