Pearse Blessing's second-half goal proved decisive as Rangers weathered a spirited Killeavy challenge before pulling clear late on to win 1-19 to 0-17 and reclaim the Gerry Fagan Cup for the first time since 2023.

Killeavy, chasing their first county title since 1948, made a blistering start, with two-pointers from Fergal Boylan and goalkeeper Shea Magill helping them establish an early five-point advantage.

However, Crossmaglen gradually found their rhythm, with brothers Oisin and Aaron O'Neill instrumental in turning the contest around.

The former landed a superb two-pointer before further scores from Odhran Caraher and Harry Cumiskey helped Rangers establish a four-point cushion.

Late efforts from Gareth Murphy and Conor O'Neill reduced Killeavy's deficit to two at half-time, with Crossmaglen leading 0-10 to 0-8.

But Killeavy roared back after the restart as Magill converted another long-range free before Ciaron O'Hanlon struck a magnificent two-pointer from open play to swing the balance again.

The sides continued to trade scores, with Aron Magennis edging Killeavy in front before Crossmaglen struck a crucial blow.

It came when Oisin O'Neill squared across goal for Blessing who blasted beyond the helpless Magill to put Rangers two points clear.

Boylan responded with another two-pointer to level the contest, but Blessing continued to torment the Killeavy defence, landing a point before substitute Kealan McEntee extended the advantage.

Magennis briefly reduced the deficit, only for Blessing to strike a superb two-pointer with four minutes remaining.

Oisin O'Neill added another point before Cian McConville finished a sweeping counter-attack to put the result beyond doubt.

Killeavy launched several desperate balls into the Crossmaglen goalmouth during added time, but Rangers held firm to secure yet another county crown.

Crossmaglen will now turn their attention to the Ulster Club Championship, where they will face the winners of the Cavan final between Gowna and Kingscourt Stars in next month's quarter-finals.