DONEGAL retained their All Ireland Vocational Schools title yesterday at Croke Park with a one point victory over Kerry.

In a controversial finish, Kerry captain Liam Murphy had a free from about 40 metres from which he elected to pass. When the referee's whistle sounded, Murphy protested that he should have been informed that his free was the game's last kick. It was a frustrating end to the Kerry captain's afternoon.

Donegal had to wait until the 13th minute to record their first point. With 24 minutes gone, John McAloone hit a Donegal goal. Given Donegal's control from midway through the second half, Kerry were fortunate to lead by 1-6 to 1-4 at half time.

Within two minutes of the resumption, a Joel Carr point and a smashing goal by Peter McHugh gave Donegal the advantage for the first time and they retained it until the finish.