How Donegal frittered away a 12point lead will occupy the thoughts of their manager, Declan Bonner, today as he ponders a remarkable final flurry from visitors Westmeath in Section B.

Donegal were held scoreless for 16 minutes while Westmeath, down and out for so much of this game, clattered in 2-3 and might have had more but for some woeful finishing. Westmeath scored goals through Damien Gavin and midfielder Paul Conway as Donegal made a number of unforced substitutions. Jim McGuinness, dominating at midfield, and Tony Boyle, already with 1-2 to his credit, were hauled ashore.

But their departure coincided with Westmeath's flowering and Bonner admited after the game he was "a worried man".

In the first half there was little need for concern as Donegal poured through a weak Westmeath defence. Brian Roper and Boyle scored goals while John Duffy, from frees, and the lively newcomer, Brendan Devenney, created problems.