18 January 2011
Given the tragic events of the last few days surrounding the McAreavy and Harte families on field activity hardly seems all that relevant. Michaela McAreavy was a well known figure in all GAA households, she was seemingly an ever present at her father’s side and a sadness has permeated GAA activity over the last 10 days. But of course the games do go on, naturally, and both Antrim senior teams saw action over the last weekend.
Our footballers posted a spirited performance in terrible weather conditions on Saturday last. There were some fine individual performances and Baker and team can take encouragement from the way Dean O’Neill and Mark Sweeney slotted into the team which saw off St Marys. Harder tests are to come of course, beginning tomorrow night in Casement against All Ireland finalists Down. Victory in that match is far from being out of the question and with improved weather conditions it is to be hoped that a decent crowd will support Antrim.
Our hurlers saw off the challenge of Westmeath in the Walsh Cup to set up an early season treat against Dublin this Sunday. Matches between us and the Dubs have been 50 / 50 affairs in recent years, putting to one side the Leinster Championship opener in 2009. That result was avenged in memorable style last summer and Sunday will be a competitive affair. Travelling for the second weekend in a row will not be easy, but perhaps on Sunday we might get a glimpse of what the season may hold in store.
Our footballers will also be in action on Sunday in Crossmaglen, clocking up their 3rd game in 8 days. The closed season is truly behind us and Antrim’s year is up and running.
Time to support our county.
