UCD blow hot and cold but shake off Athlone

It was freezing in Belfield last night and this Sigerson Cup first-round match did little to raise the mercury.

UCD were comfortably superior to their plucky, but limited opponents, and the match never threatened to ignite into the sort of contest that might have really warmed the cockles.

But even though UCD won handily in the end, they didn’t do it with the dash and style to convince you they’re good enough to win this competition. If they’re going to challenge for the cup they must improve significantly.