Derry Silence Dubs To Reach Decider

DERRY qualified for a first All-Ireland Minor Final since 2007 following a thrilling victory over Dublin on Sunday in Croke Park. It sets up a meeting with four-in-a-row chasing Kerry on Sunday, September 17.

- Michael McMullan

Lorcan McWilliams scored 0-7 for the Oakleafers, but the win stemmed from a solid defensive performance from Derry in the closing stages with Sean McKeever, Conor McCluskey and Oran McGill in impassable form. McGill put in two shuddering hits in the closing stages as Dublin came raiding for a game-saving goal.

Damian McErlain’s side trailed by a point at the break, but Dublin took control of the third quarter, as Derry struggled to get primary possession.

Oran Hartin began to go short on his kick-outs and the introduction of Callum Brown was once again a massive factor in Derry’s push for the line.

Jon Paul Devlin scored a point when sprung from the bench but referee Sean Lonergan indicated seven minutes of stoppage time. With Hill 16 coming into voice, Dublin had a lease of life but Derry’s inspirational defence shut the door on the blue wave.

BLOSSOMING OAKS

Despite conceding the early score to Ross McGarry, it was Derry who settled best, with Paddy Quigg putting them ahead.

Dublin hit back but a brilliant team score, started by goalkeeper Oran Hartin and Conleth McShane’s run saw Derry 0-3 to 0-2 ahead. Mark McGrogan stuck a brilliant point from distance and a free from Lorcan McWilliams had the Ulster champions in the driving seat.