27 March 2013
Kevin Ryan has refreshed the Antrim panel this year with a number of new faces and the new generation has grown in stature with each game. Rossa’s Stephen Beatty, 20, has featured in all games so far this year and topped off his year to date with the goal which confirmed the win over Carlow last Sunday.
Stephen featured for the county minor team a few years ago but this is first year in the senior set up.
“I noticed a big change right away, even with our pre season games. The pace is much quicker than you might be used to and the hits come harder too. But you get used to that and eventually you work your way into games.
“Playing Limerick, Dublin and the other teams is a step up from club hurling and from minor hurling, but in a good way. As a team we only think about our own performances but in the days before a game to does cross your mind that you are about to play against top class hurlers. At the end of the day though they are just players like we are so you give the best you can and see where that gets you.”
I asked Stephen if the squad was relieved to get that first win last Sunday.
“Of course we were delighted with the win but Kevin has been saying all along that he is looking for consistent performances. Against Limerick and for parts of the games against Dublin and Wexford we did perform well but not for the whole match. That’s the next aim, to deliver 70 minute performances consistently.”
Looking ahead to this weekend the La Salle pupil said the team is looking forward to another home game.
“We only got two home games in the league this year so hopefully we can get a good crowd to support the team on Sunday. It’s a double header with the footballers too so hopefully it’s a good day all round.”
Maybe home fans can see another Beatty goal this weekend.
