Antrim defeat Derry in Allianz NHL Opener
14th February 2016
A more urgent second half from Antrim saw the team claim a six-point victory over Derry at Celtic Park.
Derry's Jonathan O'Dwyer and Antrim's Conor McKinley and Simon McCrory. ©Presseye
Derry were in front 1-08 to 0-06 at the break.
Ruairi Convery’s accuracy, from the placed ball in particular, was instrumental to the Oak Leafers half-time lead, with Shane Farren also on target for the home side, before the break.
Ciaran Clarke kept the scoreboard ticking over with pointed frees. James Black and Eddie McCloskey were also among the Saffron scorers.
After the break, Antrim quickly set about reducing the deficit and in fact, they surged to a first-time lead when Kevin McKernan's free hit the net, on 47 minutes, after earlier points from Conor Johnston, Eddie McCloskey and Niall McKenna had helped them back, within distance.
Antrim scored some quality points.
Further scores from Jackson McGreevy, Kevin McKernan, Clarke and Saul McCaughan ensured victory for the Saffrons.
It was great to see the Ardoyne Under 12s at the game and they were in fine voice. The players after the game spoke of the saffron roar.
Next week's game is against Kildare at Ballycastle. Bring your youth teams to cheer on the Saffrons.
