Meath Minors eyeing place in Leinster final

THE Meath minor footballers will attempt to make the provincial final for the first time since 2010 when they take on reigning champions Kildare in the semi-final at Pairc Tailteann this Wednesday evening at 7.30.

The Royals haven’t won the title since 2008 but there were indications that could change following a 1-18 to 2-5 quarter final win over Dublin.

Its not often that a Meath team has 10 points to spare over Dublin in a championship encounter but Barry Callaghan’s charges were worthy winners in that May 21st clash.

That victory proved a huge morale-booster but it will count for little if Meath are unable to overcome the challenge of the Lilywhites.

Kildare are backboned by a number of last years winning team and defeated Wicklow 2-16 to 0-7 in their first outing of the campaign. They then ended Westmeath hopes, 1-16 to 0-8, where they again showed their potency in attack.

Meath were unconvincing when they dug out a 0-11 to 1-6 victory over Laois in an opening round but then showed a remarkable improvement against the Dubs.

There are injuries concerns over full back Conor Harnan but manager Callaghan and his selectors Paddy Reynolds and Darren Fay expect to have a full panel to pick from.

A feature of the win over Dublin was the manner with which players adapted to playing in different positions. Eanna O’Kelly Lynch and Sean Reilly who were expected to figure in defence lined out at midfield while captain Daragh Campion, normally a midfielder was in attack.

That Meath attack performed to their optimum with St Colmcille’s James Conlon outstanding throughout and contributing five points from play. Oldcastle’s Jason Scully was also in top form against the Dubs while Ethan Devine, Eoin Smyth and Campion also contributed generously to the scoreboard.

This is a massive match for Meath as victory will ensure a Croke Park outing on Leinster final day and also a place in the All-Ireland quarter finals.

Barry Callaghan has been with this particular squad from under-16 level and victory would also be a vindication that the different approach being adopted by the county at underage level is beginning to reap benefits.