Antrim manager defends players after feisty Ulster Championship derby

Down emerged victorious in a heated Ulster Championship derby against Antrim, with a final score of 0-13 to 0-9 at Pairc Esler. The game was marred by several incidents of ill-tempered clashes, both on and off the field.

Antrim manager Andy McEntee defended his players’ actions during the match, claiming that the red card shown to a member of his backroom team at half-time was a case of mistaken identity. Despite the loss, McEntee praised his team for their commitment and fighting spirit in the face of adversity.

Down’s Miceal Rooney acknowledged that their performance was not up to par and would need significant improvement if they were to succeed in the upcoming semi-final match. The game itself was described as a poor spectacle, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm and execute effectively on the field.

Tempers flared early on, with players from both sides receiving yellow cards before the match even began. The pre-match parade ended in a scuffle, leading to further tensions between the two teams.

Despite the contentious nature of the match, both teams now look ahead to their next challenges in the Ulster Championship. Down will face either Fermanagh or Armagh in the semi-final, while Antrim will regroup and focus on their next opportunity to showcase their skills on the field.

Overall, the derby between Down and Antrim was a physical and intense affair, with emotions running high on both sides. As the dust settles on this match, both teams will reflect on their performances and look to improve as they continue their journey in the Ulster Championship.