Minor footballers capture Leinster MFL title

Sun, 20th March 2016

Dublin minor footballers retained the Leinster MFL when defeating Laois in Saturday's final at Parnell Park.

Following the victory of the U21 footballers in their Leinster semi-final Paddy Christie's side put in an encouraging 60 minutes based on hard work to prevail 1-15 to 0-9.

Dublin opened brightly with points from wing-back Jack Rowe and corner-forward David Lacey before Diarmuid Whelan responded for the O'Moore County.

Conor Lennon and Cormac Howley slotted over to extend Dublin's lead before Laois battled back with points from Alan Kinsella, clipping over after Evan Comerford had initially made a great save, and James Kelly to leave it 0-4 to 0-3 to the Dubs.

David Lacey added a free before Laois enjoyed their best passage of play with scores from Alan Kinsella (two, one free) and Diarmuid Whelan put them ahead 0-6 to 0-5.

In the 25th minute David Lacey cannoned a shot off the butt of the post when through on goal following a purposeful run by Cormac Howley.

However, Dublin finished the half on the up with a fine Kevin Lillis point and a Cormac Howley goal which edged Dublin into a 1-6 to 0-6 lead just before half-time.

Five points in-a-row inside the opening 14 minutes of the second half put Dublin 1-11 to 0-6 clear with keeper Evan Comerford converting a '45' before Tom Keane, Dan O'Brien and Conor Hynes (two) pointed.

Laois had their moments too but the Dublin defence retained good concentration to hold the O'Moore County.

Dublin face Offaly in the Leinster MFC on Saturday, April 16 in Parnell Park.