Down claimed the Tailteann Cup following a 0-14 to 2-6 victory over Laois in the decider at Croke Park.
Down were two points clear at the break and held on to win by the same margin and atone for last year’s defeat to Meath at the same juncture.
Down made a blistering start leading 0-3 to no score inside seven minutes. Shealan Johnston, Liam Kerr and Pat Havern registered a point each.
Laois eventually settled and got their noses in front three minutes later. Seamus Lacey scored a goal as Laois led 1-1 to 0-3.
Odhran Murdock pushed Down three points clear on the half-hour mark. Killian Roche replied for Laois on the stroke of half-time making it 0-8 to 1-3 in Down’s favour.
Laois showed a marginal improvement after the restart. Scores from Conor Heffernan and Mark Barry restored parity on 44 minutes.
Paul Kingston edged Laois in front within 60 seconds. However, The O’Moore men failed to score for another 26 minutes.
Down capitalised hitting six successive scores. Danny Magill (two), Murdock, Caolan Mooney, Havern and Peter Fegan with a point each.
Barry ended Laois’ scoring drought with a goal 60 seconds from the end but Conor Laverty's men held on for a narrow victory.
