28 June 2009
Fait accompli, for Baker - and ahead of schedule to boot.
Who could have dreamed in January 2009 that Antrim Senior Footballers could achieve such a momentous and metamorphic aspiration in the space of six months? From outset Baker was different. His commitment was total, his enthusiasm was genuine and his determination was nothing short of instinctive. Baker brought a climate of order to a situation previously all but mired in disorder. He both earned and commanded respect as and where he saw fit.
Those saffron faithful, along with a growing number of new found friends, in their thousands, who were in Clones today, have just undergone the experience of a lifetime. Antrim Senior footballers most definitely came of age today; they controlled and dominated their Championship encounter from beginning to end, at times putting on a number of masterly individual displays. Cavan were turned over no less than fifteen times; such was the tenacity and determination of Antrim to win ball. Again there were no less than eight clean catches of high ball, another sign of growing confidence in a team loaded with talent. What a difference confidence can make, when all else is ship shape and in order.
This historic achievement should in turn prove to be an investment, which will pay handsome dividends for years to come. What Antrim child will not want to emulate his new found heroes, after such achievement as witnessed today? This really is the tonic needed for Antrim. A young Antrim team, fitness trained and coached like never before, delivered in spades again today. They were truly magnificent in defence yet again and fired up for the encounter; the whole crew fit for purpose. This team has credit in the bank and more in the tank. Many of these lads will have gained confidence from this experience.
Baker is not given to vanity or self praise but he was unquestionably happy with the team performance tonight and why would he not be? He sees more in these lads; experience and growing confidence will bring this out. As before, nothing will be taken for granted but having out performed already why should they not be looking forward to a great encounter with Tyrone, in the Ulster Senior Championship Final. What has this not done for Gáelic Football in Antrim and further afield. more………..
