01 March 2009
Antrim Senior hurlers excelled in their second half performance against Waterford in casement Park today.
After a dream opening, with a fast first goal from PJ O’Connell, Antrim were to be all but undone in the next 20 minutes, in particular by the audacity of the Wexford number 12, Diármuid Lyng, who blasted three quick goals to the back of the Antrim net, making it look all to easy to penetrate the Antrim defence; for a time,. Wexford came out clearly prepared, focused and determined, whilst it took just a bit longer for Antrim to settle to the task at hand. However, Antrim soon rallied and then dug deep, setting about the job of rebalancing early losses, to finish the first half 3 points down at 2- 9 to 4-06.
The second half was to be proof, for those in need of the same, that Antrim hurlers are not only capable of withstanding fierce and determined opposition but more importantly that, when the going really gets tough that they truly have the capacity to dig deep and demonstrate inordinate courage and determination on the field of play. Their performance today was worthy of the further encouragement and full support of all hurling fans, everywhere and although winter conditions often and invariably make for unforced errors, this was otherwise a terrific battle of minds, with a truly magnificent response from Antrim; to a very determined Wexford team. All credit to our senior hurlers, for today they demonstrated their metal; even in the understandable absence of some Cushendall stalwarts. Antrim senior hurling team closed ranks today and they truly delivered.
PJ O’ Connell and Kieran Kelly epitomised the courage and determination of Antrim today by confidently and accurately rifling in two goals when presented with opportunity, by the Dublin referee. This was a hard clean match; a real test of courage, endurance and determination. Paul Shields again had a field day, routinely taking his points when presented with the opportunity. Antrim once again fought as a cohesive and spirited team; Karl Stewart, Sean Delargy, Neil Mc Manus, Neil Mc Auley, Kieran Mc Gourty, Brendan Herron, were often in the thick of a real battle and took to it like true warriors. Antrim players fought as one for all and all for one – a team, and took their spoils, again demonstrated by way many players sharing in the scoring; long may this team spirit continue. This gallant warrior like display epitomises the true potential of Antrim Gaels; sustained it is also the very essence of future success.
To Antrim clubs and supporters I would say this. Our players, both in football and in hurling, have begun this season newly invigorated. This can be measured in spades, by way of their responding to good leadership, both in management and coaching, with added value by way of personal commitment and dedication. Adherence to good personal discipline and hunger on the field is what it takes to bring dividends; there is always more to do but do come out and encourage others to come out and give these lads more support – they are well worthy of it. There is a long way to go but they are systematically facing up to the challenges before them. Negativity is now essentially behind us – where it truly belongs; leave it there. Encourage others to come along and support the efforts of those who are determined to deliver for Antrim. Lawrence Smyth Antrim PRO.
