Ulster Hurling Minor Final: Antrim 3-18 Down 0-5

Antrim were crowned Ulster Minor Hurling Champions after defeating Down in the Ulster final at Casement. It may have not reached the heights of last years final between the 2 teams but determination and skill was on display from both sides.

Antrim started the match at a blistering pace and it seemed to take Down by surprise. After 15 minutes Antrim were 1-6 to 0-3 up and Down were sitting back too much and admiring the Antrim style. The Down defence settled better in the second quarter giving away only 1 more point before half time but their forwards were being physically crowded out and rarely got the ball in their hands to cause much threat.

The second half opened with 2 Antrim points in the first 2 minutes. Down raised their game but again failed to score whilst Antrim were picking up yet more points . 11 minutes in to the second half Antrim got a second goal to leave the scores 2-13 to 0-3. A series of Down substitutes were unable to pull back such a deficit. Down's last 15 minutes were spent running the ball for goals but individuals overplaying the ball or choosing the wrong option played in to the hands of the Antrim defence.

Inspite of the defeat many of the Down players had solid games. Whilst Down may not be spoilt with the same depth of talent that Antrim have individuals from this team will surely bolster the Down Senior team over the next few years.