Meath booked their place in the Leinster final when they overcame a spirited challenge from Laois in a thrilling semi-final at Dunsany, Co Meath yesterday.
Top scorer for Meath was left corner forward Christine O'Brien with a personal tally of five points. Laois bagged the only goal of the game, when full back Sue Ramsbottam scored seven minutes from time, to narrow the gap to three points. But they were always chasing a strong Meath lead throughout, and the hosts ran out deserved winners.
MEATH: S Coleman; P McNeilis, M Sheridan, L McKeever; D Mangan, A Donnehy, F Mahon; S Dooley, N McNeilis; E Duffy, D O'Carroll (0-4), D Shaw; E McAuley (0-4), R McNeilis, C O'Brien (0-5 one free, one penalty). Subs: J Sheils (0-1) for R McNeilis, G Nulty (0-1) for Shaw (both half-time); E O'Carroll for Duffy (43 mins); L Keenan for P McNeilis (52).
LAOIS: T Swayne; T Fogarty, S Ramsbottam (1-0), M Phelan; A Casey, M Casey, A Collins; L Brennan, K O'Reilly; M Kirwan (0-3, two frees), L Carroll (0-1, free) T Lawlor (0- 3, one free); A Brophy (0-1), M Keogh, C O'Loughlin. Subs: N Delaney for O'Reilly (44 mins); C Casey for Brophy (46).
Referee: T Clarke (Dublin)
