Donegal’s U16 ladies will aim to emulate their minor counterparts in the All Ireland Football Final with Meath at Tarmon Barry in Longford this Saturday (Throw in 2.30pm).

Minor boss Kenny Griffin praised his charges for capturing the County’s first ever national ladies title.

“I’m absolutely delighted for the girls, there have been so many years of hard struggle to finally win an All Ireland and the first one feels so sweet, I am just over the moon,” he said.

Starting the second half at 3-03 apiece, Griffin’s girls were level with Clare until the final quarter when they pulled away to eventually win by an eight points. Full forward Geraldine McLaughlin stretched their advantage with some late scores.

“At half-time I said to the girls, this is the last time you’ll all be together so get out there and empty the tank, they gave everything in the second half and they were deserved winners.

“Ciara Hegarty was brilliant in midfield, but Geraldine is a such a gem, I wouldn’t swap her for any other player and I think I’ll adopt her,” he joked.

Geraldine will be back in action for Donegal against Meath this weekend in the U16s’ final. She scored 3-04 in Donegal’s semi-final victory over Galway.

Galway remain unbeaten this season and should be buoyed by their semi-final victory over favourites, Cork.