Armagh minor football champions after win over Down

ARMAGH 1-08 DOWN 1-05, Clones

Armagh have claimed their first ESB Ulster Minor Football Championship title since 2005 following an exciting 1-08 to 1-05 win over neighbours Down at St Tiernach's Park, Clones this afternoon.

The sides were level on two occasions in the opening half, but the Orchard County youngsters kept on top on the restart to ensure their 12th title.

Armagh made the better of the opening stages and led by 1-01 to 0-00 after just five minutes thanks to a goal from half-forward Rory Grugan.

Grugan rounded Down goalkeeper James Deeny and drilled the ball home into an open goal.

But Down quickly bounced back with a pointed free from David McKibben before a 12th minute goal from Caolan Mooney levelled the tie for the first time.

Scores were at a premium in the second quarter, but a Robbie Tasker point ensured Armagh held a 1-03 to 1-02 interval lead.

Down were held to just three points in the second half as a determined Armagh side clicked into top gear.

Eugene McVerry and defender Kealen Downey were on target with quick-fire scores early after the restart.

But despite the efforts of Kevin McClory and Robbie White, Down could not bridge the gap and Armagh closed out the final with a brace of Grugan scores.