Cushendall Target Antrim Hurling Title Against Familiar Rivals Dunloy

Cushendall Target Antrim Hurling Title Against Familiar Rivals Dunloy

Cushendall Ruairí Óg will face Dunloy in the Antrim Senior Hurling Championship final on Sunday at Páirc Mac Uílín in Ballycastle, with throw-in scheduled for 14:00 BST. The match was originally set for last weekend but was postponed due to Storm Beolo. Both sides meet for the fourth time in seven county finals, adding another chapter to a well-established rivalry.

Youthful Core Steps Up in Absence of Veteran Burke

Cushendall captain Eoghan Campbell told BBC Sport NI that the emergence of younger players has been pivotal in the team's return to the decider. Experienced defender Paddy Burke missed the championship run after hip surgery, creating opportunities for under‑21 graduates.

• Conor McCann, still a minor, has secured a starting berth in the back line.
• Fred McCurry has been converted from midfield to corner‑back, adding attacking versatility.
• Manager Brian Delargy confirmed that seven under‑21 players featured in the semi‑final win over Loughgiel, a group that recently captured the county under‑21 title.

"The best thing that's happened for us is the young lads stepping up, especially in the back line," Campbell said. Delargy added that those players "have staked a claim, and they've come through in Paddy's absence." Burke remains involved off the field, offering advice and support.

Tactical Preview: Containing Dunloy's Attack

Campbell highlighted Dunloy's offensive structure as the primary challenge. He identified Keelan Molloy's deep‑lying playmaking, the Elliott brothers (Seaan and Nigel) driving through the middle, and Nigel Elliott's scoring threat when he finds rhythm. Cushendall's plan will rely on positional flexibility — McCurry's ability to cover midfield or forward roles allows teammates to interchange for short spells during the high‑tempo exchanges typical of modern hurling.

Bradley's Return Bolsters Attacking Options

Forward Fiontan Bradley returned from injury to score a crucial goal in the 2‑16 to 0‑20 semi‑final victory over Loughgiel. Delargy described the finish as a high‑percentage one‑on‑one chance created by Callagh Mooney. The manager noted that several squad places remain competitive, with Bradley's availability adding depth to an attack that also includes established scorers.

Final Details and Viewing Information

• Competition: Antrim Senior Hurling Championship Final
• Teams: Cushendall Ruairí Óg vs Dunloy
• Venue: Páirc Mac Uílín, Ballycastle
• Date & Time: Sunday, 14:00 BST (postponed from previous weekend due to Storm Beolo)
• Format: Single match, 60 minutes plus potential extra time
• Previous Meeting: Dunloy defeated Cushendall in the group stage; Cushendall beat Loughgiel 2‑16 to 0‑20 in the semi‑final
• Broadcast/Streaming: Check BBC Sport NI and Antrim GAA official channels for live coverage details

Campbell Hints at Inter‑County Return

After 13 years with Antrim, Campbell stepped away from inter‑county duty but left the door open for a return under new manager Michael McShane. "When I stepped away, I probably did think it was final, but it's something I'll definitely consider. I'll never say never to it," he said, adding that any decision would come after the club campaign concludes.

How to Verify

• Original interview: BBC Sport NI article by Mark Sidebottom (source URL: https://www.bbc.com/sport/articles/cqly0z047x6yo)
• Antrim GAA official website for fixture confirmations and any late changes
• Club social media channels for team news on match day