In a re-run of last year's provincial championship, Galway took the honours once again by the narrowest of margins in a hard-fought encounter at Cloone yesterday.

On this occasion Leitrim, who fielded only four regulars against nine of Galway's title-winning side, were unlucky not to force a draw. Aidan Rooney failed to convert an injury-time free much to the relief of the Galway mentors, who saw their team lose their way and squander a five-point lead during an exciting second half.

Galway played like champions in the opening quarter when they built up a 0-5 to 0-0 lead. Right from the throw-in they showed their intentions as centre back, Damian Mitchell ran through the Leitrim defence to register a spectacular first score.

Just as quickly as they had ignited, Galway started to lose their touch and a 17th-minute point by Brendan Guckian opened Leitrim's account and started a period of dominance for the former champions, though Galway were still in front at half-time, 0-6 to 0-4.

Early in the second half Galway increased their lead with points from frees by Jarlath Fallon and Niall Finnegan but again Leitrim responded and points by Aidan Rooney, David McNulty and McGlynn left one point between the sides going into the final quarter.

In an exciting finale, both sides exchanged scores with Leitrim introducing Declan Darcy after a long lay-off through injury. However, possession was squandered by both sides and in the 58th minute substitute John Concannon shot over what proved to be the winning point.