04 January 2009
Armagh 0.12 Antrim 0.10
After trailing 0.06 .0.03 at half time Antrim lifted their game in the second half the run the Ulster Champions close.But for a bit of luck the result could have been so different,but none the less a heartening preformance for the 4th Jan.
Antrim Footballers had a formidable task in hand today, when they met Division One opponents, from the Orchard County, in their own back-yard; the Athletic Grounds in Armagh. Whilst some might argue that 2009 may have got off to a very 'short-notice first event', in terms of preparation time, it has to be said the conditions today were match favourable, except perhaps for the irritation of a pale and blinding winter sun. There were encouraging aspects to the game today, new playing rules notwithstanding. New Antrim Manager Liam Bradley was very much in evidence and whilst he has had little real opportunity to experiment it was patently clear that his fresh approach demonstrates a determination to accentuate the positive. Come what may he is clearly not a man to allow grass to grow beneath his feet; I think that it is fair to say watch this space.
Whilst Armagh never really looked threatened today it can be said that they had luck on their side, on more than one occasion. Antrim were unfortunate not to have scored at least one and arguably two good goals on the day. Again Antrim were competitive, in bursts, and won their chances to add points but it was not to be today. It is early in the season to pick out players for individual praise but it has to be said that there were encouraging signs of some real determination within the new Antrim squad. Gerard Mc Aleese was focused, determined and on target. Ciaran Close, was yet again reliable and determined although he had to come off eventually in consequence of injury. Tony Scullion, again and again and as is his hallmark drives directly at opponents with vigour and determination; he is an inspiration for his sustained determination on the field of play. Darragh Edwards made a significant claim to the number 11 Jersey today, wearing it as though he intended to stay on board.
All in all Antrim put on a determined display and against formidable odds carried the day with dignity. There was evidence, as to be expected, of the greater experience of some seasoned Armagh players. Names like O' Rourke, Clarke and Mc Keever don't lie down or roll over but the experience of playing against them has to be a positive one for Antrim players.
Antrim
1. Sean McGreevy 2.Aaron Douglas 3.Sean McVeigh 4.Colin Brady 5.Tony Scullion 6.Paddy Carey 7.Conor McGoldrick 8.Micheal McCann 9.Martin McCarry 10.David McAlernon 12.Dara Edwards 12.Aodhan Gallagher 13.Ciaran Close 14.Michael Magill 15.Gerard McAleese
Substitutes: Conor Creaney for A. Gallagher (yellow card), Benny Hasson for M. Magill (yellow card), Liam Carlin for C. McGoldrick, Conor Maxwell for C. Brady (injured), Kevin Brady for D. McAlernon and Donal Graham for C. Close (injured).