Meath corner forward Joe Sheridan’s close-range goal, scored in the second minute of second-half injury time, put a different complexion on the score as Sligo were the brisker side throughout.

Indeed, had Sligo not conceded that goal, they may have actually taken a semi-final berth on scoring difference.

The home side, inspired by Dessie Sloyan, scorer of 1-7, led by seven points after 26 minutes.

Sloyan’s 23rd-minute goal came from a mistake by Meath net-minder David Gallagher.

The game took a dramatic twist when Meath scored two unexpected goals in a three-minute spell.

Sheridan’s 30-metre free squirmed through the grasp of Sligo Goalkeeper Philip Greene and then veteran forward Ollie Murphy finished a clever move for Meath’s second goal.

Two points by Sheridan then put Meath one point ahead, 2-4 to 1-6, before half time.

Meath didn’t score for 28 minutes of the second half, as a refreshed Sligo kicked six unanswered points, including impressive scores from Gary Maye, Sean Davey, and top-scorer Sloyan.

Sligo remained the superior side for the remainder of the game, but Sheridan’s late goal took a slight gloss off their marginal victory.