Peter Canavan thought referee was fair on Dublin despite Paul Flynn’s criticism

"I thought Sean Hurson had a decent game."

Former Dublin star Paul Flynn questioned the referee's decisions during his county's loss against Derry, but Tyrone legend Peter Canavan was quick to defend the official. Derry were very poor in the first half scoring just two points, but after an incredible performance, spring boarded by the substitution of Gareth McKinless, they bounced straight back. The second half was thrilling as the game went end to end, and Niall Toner's goal meant that their poor first half wouldn't stop them from going for the win. They sealed the victory at the very death after a wonderful point from Brendan Rodgers to secure a famous victory for the Oakleafers. However, before the Slaughtneil man's score, Derry were awarded a few frees that helped them get back into the game too, with Mick Fitzsimons being sent off in the process. Speaking on RTÉ Two, Flynn though that some of the referee's decisions were harsh against his former side, but Canavan quickly weighed in to defend Sean Hurson - the match official on the day - and a fellow Tyrone man.

"I know Paul (Flynn) and a lot of the Dublin supporters are irate leaving the ground here, but I thought Sean Hurson had a decent game. "In fact, Michael Fitzsimons could have been sent off earlier for a black card or second yellow. He was lucky to be on the pitch at that stage.

"I also thought Conor Glass was very hard done by on that equalising free. Yes a few other calls went against Dublin, but by in large he contributed to a very good game. "In terms of the finish, in the previous two games Dublin got over the line because of their bench. Jack McCaffrey came on and the difference he made, they didn't have him there tonight." Related links:

• Gareth McKinless has the kind of impact that all subs dream of as Derry beat Dublin
• Rory Gallagher reveals the two things that he demands from his Derry players
• Peter Canavan: "The Tyrone support has been very poor"