Derry win inaugural McGuigan Cup

The inaugural Jim McGuigan Cup (u17 football) was played at Glen on Saturday afternoon with the home side emerging victorious.

In the semi final, despite a poor opening half, the young Oak Leafers finished strongly against a fancied Tyrone side running out winners on a scoreline of 2-11 to 1-09.

With Cavan netting a last minute goal to overcome Down it was the Breffni men who would face Derry in the final.

Cavan opened brightly and led by 2-00 to 0-00 after 10mins. However Derry responded well with a goal and two points without replay against a stiff breeze. Further Cavan points gave the blues a four point cushion at half time.

With the wind in their backs for the second half, Derry fought hard eventually levelling with 15mins remaining. A final surge from the home saw the McGuigan Cup fittingly stay in Derry for its first outing on a scoreline of Derry 1-11 Cavan 2-04.

Chief Executive of Ulster GAA Danny Murphy joined Colm McGuigan to present the trophy named after his father to Derry captain Cathair McCabe.

Thanks and congratulations is due to Watty Grahams Glen for superbly hosting what was a highly enjoyable and entertaining tournament in memory of a great Derry and Ulster gael.