Antrim book place in Ulster final

Antrim 0-21 Down 2-12

Dinny Cahill's Ulster champions advanced to the provincial final at Casement Park.

All despite the concession of two second-half goals, most notably Stephen Clarke's net bulger from a Simon Wilson through ball, just one minute after the break.

Antrim, winners of the Division Two league final a fortnight ago, strengthened their 0-10 to 0-5 lead at the break with three unanswered scores.

The introduction of Liam Watson, back from a four-week ban, on 25 minutes saw an edge develop to Antrim's play - though Down keeper Graham Clarke brilliantly saved Brian McFall's overhead goal attempt on 31 minutes.

With little over eight minutes remaining, Down had clawed their way back to level pegging at 2-12 to 0-18.

But rallying scores from half-forwards McGuckian, Richmond and substitute Aidan Delargy, also back in the squad following a suspension, closed out a handsome advert for northern hurling.