Defeat for Tyrone U-20s in opening round of Ulster

THE Tyrone U-20s lost out in the opening round of the Ulster Championship when they lost by 1-12 to 1-9 at the hands of Donegal.

It was a disappointing loss for the young Red Hands, but they can take consolation from a spirited comeback in the final quarter.

A goal for Donegal with their opening score of the game gave them the lead. The visitors held the upper hand for much of the first half, although the Red Hands battled well.

Points from Luke Donnelly, Oisin McCann, Odhran Robinson and Ciaran Bogue reduced the deficit, but they trailed by 1-6 to 0-6 at half-time.

Donegal dominated the third quarter after which they led by six points, as Tyrone went 21 minutes without a score.

However the introduction of Daniel Fullerton and Michael McGleenan transformed their challenge. A goal from Rory Donnelly brought them right back into contention and points from Daniel Fullerton and Luke Donnelly left the tie in the melting pot entering added time.

But Tyrone just fell agonisingly short, as they couldn’t overhaul the Donegal advantage.