Down delighted with Semi-Final victory

Niamh Mallon inspired Down to a superb second half display against Antrim in the NWP Recycling Ulster Senior Championship Semi-Final yesterday in Portglenone. Leading by 5 points at the break Mallon finished the game with a remarkable 2-07 from play as Down cruised to a 3-18 to 0-10 victory.

With a strong league campaign behind them Down went into the game as favourites and manager Alistair McGilligan was pleased with his side’s performance all over the pitch.

‘I was very happy with the performance and the only disappointing aspect was not using a few more subs as we have the Intermediate team to consider also. If we used a few from the squad today then it would weaken the Intermediate team but they will have a game eight days before the Ulster Final so they have the opportunity to impress then. We have had an advantage were we maybe have played more games than Antrim in the last few weeks and I think that showed today. The regular games have stood to us well’.

 Natalie McGuinness of Antrim and Aoife Keown of Down battle for possession

The performance of Portaferry forward Mallon certainly entertained the crowd and an array of scores flowed throughout including a deft flick to a long ball into the square by Fionnuala Carr.  ‘It turned out to be a great display from Niamh Mallon but she can’t do it all by herself. She received some great ball into her. A couple of times Niamh could have went closer to goal and on occasions laid the ball off but she’s exceptionally talented. She’s now taken on the leadership as captain and I think she’s starting to settle into that role and it’s bringing out the best in her’.

Antrim battled for goals towards the end of the game and had various opportunities rebuked by the Down rear guard which shows promise heading into a game against reigning champions Derry. In the 2013 decider Derry ran out comfortable winners in Owenbeg with Down faltering all over the pitch. The La Salle Belfast teacher hopes that Down can make amends for 12 months ago.

‘I’m delighted that we never conceded any goals and Maria in goals had a great game. The defence on many occasions threw themselves in front of shots and even 21 year frees and that shows the team spirit and the pride in wanting to keep a clean sheet. They desire to keep the score down was great to see. We will try to take away the demons of the defeat to Derry last year. We are in a lot better place coming into the game. Our performances have been better this year and although Derry may have struggled but they are playing Division 1 and Senior Championship so they are playing at a higher level but hopefully we are more prepared. Two years ago they beat us after extra time when we maybe should have won so the players know they can perform to Derry’s level’.

Down will now face Derry in the NWP Recycling Ulster Senior Championship Semi-Final in Pairc Esler on 1 ^st June.