Derry 1-12 Meath 0-8
Derry exuded class and confidence today as they beat Meath by seven points to lift the All-Ireland minor football title at Croke Park.
Despite a number of worthy performances in attack, it was full back and team captain Gerard O'Kane who inspired the Ulster side to victory.
Neither side gave the spectators much to cheer about in the opening 10 minutes as both struggled to score against two excellent defensive units.
O'Kane spoiled a number of Meath attacks and it was his surging runs up field that ignited Derry's scoring after the early lull.
A brace from half-forward Cathal O'Kane set Derry on their way after David Murtagh had opened the scoring for Meath.
Derry, who moments earlier were denied a goal following a superb Mark Brennan save, went three points to the good when Barry McGoldrick smacked over a fine point.
Meath, however, stayed in touch through free taking corner forward Brian Farrell and drew level at 0-5 to 0-5 minutes before the interval.
But enthusiastic Derry continued to probe their opponents and were rewarded with a close range Ruairi Convery goal. They held a three point advantage (1-5 to 0-5) at half-time.
Derry kept their scoring rate ticking over in the second half and opened up a comfortable lead which Meath would never overturn.
Farrell pointed twice to keep Meath in touch but Derry's pressure ultimately squeezed the life out of their opponents.
Ciaran Mullan and Conleth Moran - son of former Donegal manager Mickey Moran - pointed late on to pile further misery on the Leinster side.