Dublin 2-12
Roscommon 0-11
If ever an end scoreline gives a wrong impression, then this one surely does. Anyone unlucky enough to miss this mighty duel might be forgiven for thinking that Dublin had it all their own way, as they were expected to.
In reality however the Metropolitans were mightily relieved to be crowned All-Ireland champions for the second time in three years after an absorbing and highly entertaining encounter in O’Connor Park.
The underdogs held a two point lead as the game entered the final quarter but to their credit Dublin turned the tide as their greater strength in depth ultimately proved the difference. They were deserving winners in the end but will be well aware that the end scoreline was more than a little flattering.
Nigel Dineen’s men were determined not to let their sizable following down and held a three point lead after 19 minutes. 1-3 from man of the match Paul Hudson however gave Dublin a slender 1-5 to 0-6 half time lead.
Within five minutes of the restart The Rossies were back on level terms compliments of a Donie Smith brace. The dream of being crowned All-Ireland champions was alive and well when Connolly and Compton edged the Connacht champions into a two-point lead, 0-10 to 1-5 after only seven minutes of the second half.
The significant primrose and blue army had plenty to cheer about throughout the third quarter as their young heroes continued to enjoy the better of the exchanges and maintained their two-point cushion.
A raft of Dublin substitutions however revitalised the Dublin attack and with the Leinster champions now dominating the midfield sector the game was about to swing firmly away from the gallant Roscommon side.
The Dubs kicked a further 1-6 without reply, the goal coming deep in injury time.
While defeat is a bitter pill to swallow, Dineen and his men can hold their heads up high. They could not have done any more to bring the Clarke Cup west of the Shannon. Dublin are a formidable outfit who had blown away all opposition en route to the final. That Roscommon pushed them to the pin of their collars says a lot about this Roscommon side.
Roscommon supporters were not too downhearted despite losing because they know that the future is bright at senior level judging on this display. Any county would be delighted to have talent of the likes of Ciaran Cafferkey, Paddy Brogan, the two Dalys, Cathal Shine, Colin Compton, and of course Donie Smith coming onstream.
Dublin too have every reason to celebrate as they collect their second title in three years. A number of this side will be included in the senior set-up this year and are sure to have a big say in the destination of the Sam Maguire.
