After a free ridden first half the scores were level at half time - Cavan 0-7, Down 1-4 - with the Down goal coming from a Greg McCartan penalty.

Cavan produced a much improved second half performance and with Jason Reilly and Larry Reilly in good form in attack they made the most of some fine distribution from midfielder Pierce McKenna.

Cavan gradually took control but the forwards shot a number of wides, 14 in all, which gave Down a lifeline Down battled in the closing minutes but their efforts came too late.