As Leitrim reflect on their catalogue of missed chances, the 13 players who finished the game for Galway can feel proud of their outstanding achievement in capturing the Connacht Under-21 football championship title against the odds on Saturday.

Leitrim totally dominated the opening exchanges at Carrick-onShannon. But a succession of wides, seven during the half to Galway's one, contributed largely to the home side finding themselves six points in arrears after 23 minutes. That's when Peter Gaffey finally opened the Leitrim account with a point from a free.

Earlier, Galway had shown the 2,000 plus crowd an exhibition in how to score from limited possession. The excellent Padraig Joyce's pointed free after 30 seconds was a portent. Galway were aided by an impressive strike force of Derek Savage and Chris Donovan, marshalled by man of the match Michael Colleran.

Leitrim found themselves in serious trouble as they kicked recklessly from the easiest of scoring positions.

The dismissal of Galway wing back Tomas Meehan after just three minutes for striking should have been an incentive to the Leitrim men, but they failed to use the extra man wisely.

Galway's second dismissal came on the 40th minute when Derek Savage laid out Leitrim goalkeeper Enda Lyons, in full view of the umpires.

Galway: D Corbett; E Daly, K Newell, T Meehan; R Fahy (capt), J Divilly, N Connolly; M Donnellan, D Kinneavey; S Conlisk, M Colleran (0- 3), D Reilly; D Savage (0-3), P Joyce (0-5), C Donnellan (0-2). Subs: M Meehan for C Donnellan (50 min).

Leitrim: E Lyons; D Kelleher, A Charles, S Dillon; M Greene, J Pharan, R Haslette; P Farrell (capt) (0-2), P McDermott; D Reynolds, C Duignan, F McBrien (1-2); P Gaffey (0-3), D Brennan, T Kelleher. Subs: F Cox for R Haslett (30 min), G Scollan for M Greene (45 min).

Referee: W Feeley (Mayo).