Kildare and Derry were crowned All-Ireland Gala camogie junior 'A' and minor 'B' champions respectively in Ashbourne yesterday.

A goal from super-sub Louise Walsh in the closing stages sealed Kildare's first All-Ireland junior title in 20 years as they overcame Armagh by 3-10 to 2-8. It was the Orchard County's second successive final defeat, having lost after a replay to Roscommon 12 months ago.

Two goals in the opening quarter from Andrea McAlinden and Joanne Mallon helped Armagh to a six-point lead, but four points from the impressive Roisin O'Connell and a goal from Orla Mullally left Kildare just two points adrift, 1-6 to 2-5, at the break.

With Colette McSorley unerring from frees, the Ulster side continued to hold the upper hand until a 50th minute goal from Mary Murtagh gave the Lilywhites the lead. And Walsh's late strike made sure of the win.

In the All-Ireland minor 'B' final, Derry's goal-scoring ability proved decisive as they defeated local rivals Antrim by 3-10 to 0-9.

The Oak Leafers led by 1-6 to 0-5 at half-time thanks to a Mary Jo McCullagh goal, and further majors from Mary Kelly and Grainne McNicholl after the restart put the result beyond doubt. Tweet

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