U21 Hurling: Down and Derry to meet in Ulster Final

Thursday 20th July 2017

In a high-scoring semi-final at the Athletic Grounds, Down went on a scoring spree against Armagh and won by 8-19 to 1-15, while in the other semi Derry caused an upset when they overcame Antrim by 2-11 to 3-6 in a tough, tense contest.

Down's Cormac Coulter scored 3-8 in a stunning solo show and not far behind him came Daithi Sands, who pocketed 3-1.

Down's other goals came from Pearse Og McCrickard and Barry Trainor, while David Ryan landed Armagh's goal in the first half. His team looked to be in contention at 1-4 to 0-3, but by half-time they trailed by 5-8 to 1-10 and after that they were immersed in damage limitation.

Derry are through to the Ulster U21 hurling final following a sensational 2-11 to 3-6 defeat of holders Antrim at Owenbeg.

A repeat of the last two provincial finals in this grade and a couple of penalty goals from Cormac O'Doherty (2-5) in either half proved decisive as the hosts marched into the decider. The winners led by nine points with ten minutes left before Antrim rallied with a trio of late goals from James McNaughton, Eamon Smyth and Christy McNaughton.

But their nine-in-a-row bid has been derailed at the first hurdle and instead it's Collie McGurk's charges who advance to a third successive Ulster final, wherein they will be gunning for their first title since 2008, with opposition provided by Down.

With Kilkenny awaiting the winners in an All-Ireland semi-final on August 19^th, Derry and Down are now preparing to lock horns in the northern decider for the first time since 2004. Final is set for Wed 26th July.