It was a bad day all round for Cavan when the minors lost to Derry in the first round of the Ulster Championship in the curtain-raiser at Breffni Park yesterday. In a tight finish, Derry snatched the honours with an injury-time goal from Martin Donaghy.

Cavan impressed in the early stages and produced a fine opening with three points without reply. By half-time, they were still ahead 0-8 to 0-5.

However, Derry produced a strong finish and points from Paul Hearty and Jim O'Neill, along with 1-1 from their outstanding left back Martin Donaghy, ensured Derry a place in the semi-final.

Scorers: Derry - J Kelly 0-5; M Donaghy 1-1; C O'Neill 0-3; D Canning, P Hearty 0-1 each. Cavan - R Graham 0-4; G Pierson 0-3; P Brady, E Costello, D McConnell 0-2 each.