Fallon leads the way

Westmeath, contesting the final of the Leinster Under-21 FC for the third time in four years, had their perseverance finally rewarded when they captured the title for the first time by defeating the holders Laois by 1-9 to 0-10 in yesterday's replayed final in Tullamore.

The game was every bit as exciting as the previous week's encounter, although conditions made difficult by high winds and driving rain inevitably took their toll on the standard of play.

Westmeath made good use of first-half wind advantage, for despite shooting seven wides, they led at half time by 1-6 to 0-2. The goal that was to prove so valuable was netted in the 12th minute by Joe Fallon following a free by Des Doran. Fallon was the winners' most prolific forward, finishing the game with 1-5 to his credit.

Laois were by no means out of contention trailing by seven points at the interval, and with the wind and rain on their backs, they stormed back into contention by firing over six points without reply.

Just when Westmeath appeared to be fading out of the game, Fallon came to the rescue by pointing a free. That broke the holder's momentum and restored the confidence of the challengers.

Twice more Laois got to within a point of their opponents, but each time Westmeath hit back to remain in front. They finished much the stronger side and clinched victory in injury time with a final point by Joe Fallon.

In addition to Fallon, the winners had sterling performers in James Galvin, Paul Mullen, David O'Shaughnessy, Shay Deering, until forced to retire at half time, and Des Dolan.

The reason Laois, who made three changes from the previous week, surrendered their crown was their lack of scoring power in their forward line: place kicker Chris Conway accounted for all but three points of their total.

Two of his points from sideline kicks in the second half were spectacular efforts. Others to show to advantage were Kevin Fitzpatrick, Martin Delaney and Niall Collins.

WESTMEATH - C Mullin; P Mullen, J Galvin, F Murray; B Lambden, A Canning, M Burke; K Burke, D O'Shaughnessy; S Deering (0-1), F Wilson, R Brown (0-1); J Fallon (1-5), M Ennis, D Dolan (0- 2). Subs - D Kilmartin for Deering, J Brennan for Lambden, C Barry for K Burke.

LAOIS - R Darby; J Kehoe, K Fitzpatrick, J Higgins; N Collins, D Conroy, P McDonald; M Delaney, N Garvan; M Lambe, C Conway (0-7), T Kelly (0-1); B McDonald, S Kelly (0-1), J Behan. Subs - C Parkinson for Lambe; B Fitzpatrick for Behan.

Referee: S McCormack (Meath).