All-Ireland champions Tyrone needed extra-time to retain their Ulster U20FC title at Donegal's expense in Owenbeg last night.

In a pulsating decider, the Red Hands prevailed by 1-19 to 2-14 to set up a repeat of last year's All-Ireland final against Kerry in the semi-final later this month. Nine points from full forward Ruairi McCullagh proved decisive for the winners who were pushed all the way after leading by seven at one stage in extra-time.

Caolan Donnelly and McCullagh kicked late points to give the winners a 0-5 to 0-4 half-time lead. Donegal resumed with a pair of two-pointers from substitute Shane Callaghan and Conor McCahill to go three up before Tyrone regained the lead thanks to a goal from Joey Clarke and points from McCullagh and Conall Sheehy.

Donegal responded with a goal from corner back Cathal Rua O Gallchoir in the 50th minute, but two McCullagh frees sent the game to extra-time with the sides deadlocked on 1-9 apiece.

Tyrone powered seven points clear on the restart with the help of McCullagh, Eoin McElholm, and Shea McDermott two-pointers before Donegal responded with a Seanan Carr goal and two points to trail by 2-11 to 1-17 at the end of the first period.

Callaghan reduced the deficit to the minimum at the start of the second period, but the Tir Chonaill men couldn't regain parity as a late McCullagh free finally sealed Tyrone's victory.

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