Dublin 1-10 – 1-8 Donegal
Dublin claimed their first All-Ireland under 21 final since 2003 after a dramatic two point win over Donegal in Kingspan Breffni Park, Cavan on Saturday evening.
Donegal sharpshooter Michael Murphy had a chance to win it for Donegal in injury time at the end of the game but blasted a penalty kick against the crossbar, with Dublin able to clear the rebound to safety.
Dublin were the better side in the opening half, dominating proceedings around the middle of the field while up front, Dean Rock was a constant threat, scoring three points in the first thirty minutes. With Dermot Molloy particularly influential, Donegal finished the half strongly and went in at the break a point ahead after Leo McLoone finished a fabulous move to the net on the stroke of half time.
Donegal picked up where they left off after the break and were two points to the good midway through the half when Gary Sweeney goaled for Dublin to regain the lead. As the game drew to a close Dublin looked the likelier winners until the penalty in injury time, but the crossbar came to the rescue for Jim Gavin’s men. The final whistle sounded soon after and captain Jonny Cooper lifted the Clarke Cup amidst scenes of delight for players and fans alike.
