Brendan Devenney hit 1-4 for Donegal

The Mourne county looked dangerous early on and full-forward Aidan O'Prey should also have notched a goal.

Veteran Mickey Linden looked especially dangerous early on and played a part in setting up McCartan's superb goal.

But after their early difficulties, the Donegal defence regrouped and good midfield work from Jim McGuinness and the superb John Gildea helped Moran's team fight back.

Brendan Devenney levelled for the home team with a 27th minute point which left the score 0-6 to 1-3.

But that stage Down had lost defender Simon Poland who had to be taken to hospital with what appeared to be an ankle injury.

Before the start, Liam Doyle had cried off the Mourne outfit after being injured in the warm-up. Noel Sexton had come into the Down startling line-up.

Sweeney's 34th minute goal was the product of individual brilliance.

Little appeared to be on when Sweeney took the ball 25 metres out but he skinned Down full-back Ciaran Byrne, then rounded goalkeeper Peter Travers before hammering to the empty net.

Disappointing Walsh

The goal proved to be a killer blow for Down.

The Mourne side didn't manage a score in the the second half until the 53rd minute.

That ended a 28 minute period without a score.

By that stage, Brian Roper had notched Donegal's second goal.

Roper's 44th minute goal put Donegal 2-10 to 1-3 ahead and ended any remote hopes that Down may have entertained of launching a comeback.

A minute later, the very disappointing Michael Walsh was replaced by Ronan Sexton.

With the game already won, Donegal eased off in the closing stage but the excellent Devenney was still able to hit another goal.