In a strange way that's testament to the rise of the two sides involved. Both Colm Coyle and John Maughan have got what they wanted from the early months of the year.

They've somehow fallen into a winning habit for the most part, made the top two in their groups and because of all that focus has already switched to what lies in waiting. The real stuff starts when Meath face Kildare in three weeks and Roscommon begin their realistic two-game trek towards a Connacht title.

Yet still. . . Just a few weeks ago either side would have given anything to be here, as much to allay fears about stuttering form as to pick up silverware. Meath had the worrying experience of capitulating to Wexford. You don't go into a game needing to lose by less than eight, come out by the minimum and feel good but that seems to have been the wake-up call they needed. Roscommon were worse still. Mid-way through their game against Offaly, fans were going for their sheaths. There had been little improvement in a year and already the under21 side Maughan had spent weeks talking up had fallen to Mayo.

A game and a half later, all is well and good. Particularly after their impressive defeat of Cavan last Saturday. Ger Heneghan and Cathal Cregg had been solid all season but Enda Kenny suddenly looked the player to match the reputation. Likewise Michael Finneran who complimented Seamus O'Neill well in the middle of the park. But one game against Cavan probably isn't the best indicator and today will provide a more stern examination, particularly for Finnan who must take responsibility at midfield in the absence of his partner.

That alone could sway it.

Meath looked threatening against Monaghan in their own semi-final success. Nigel Crawford always appears dominant at this level . . .

regardless of his flaws a step higher . . . and if he can get any handle on possession, the outcome looks predictable. Graham Geraghty is set to return to a forward line where Joe Sheridan, Stephen Bray and Brian Farrell have been ticking along nicely. Their markers today may be too young and inexperienced to cope with a considerable presence.

Meath should win it and quickly turn their attention to Kildare, Roscommon should lose it and will be left with plenty of time to fancy themselves against Sligo.

MEATH TBC ROSCOMMON G Claffey; S McDermott, A McDermott, R Kelly; S Daly, J Nolan, R Dooner;

K Mannion, M Finneran; D Hoey, G Cox, C Gregg; C Devaney, E Kenny, G Heneghan NHL DIVISION 2 FINAL MEATH v ROSCOMMON Referee P Hughes (Armagh) Breffni Park, 3.30