Classic Finals

THIS game will always be remembered for a number of reasons, not least the fact that Down brought the Sam Maguire Cup back to Ulster for the first time since they themselves won it in 1968.

And, the next three championships all went north, highlighted by first-ever wins for Donegal and Derry, before Down won the last of the county’s five titles.

It was noteworthy that current manager James McCartan was inspirational for Down and that Meath talisman Colm O’Rourke was unable to start on medical advice – although he did come on late in the game.