Single point sees Clare secure first win

Antrim 2-13 Clare 2-14

Clare were made to fight all the way for their first win in Allianz NHL Division 2 at Casement Park this afternoon.

Ger O'Loughlin's side led by 2-09 to 1-05 at half-time, with Conor McGrath and Cathal McInerney claiming the Clare goals.

O'Loughlin demanded a '100% improvement' from the opening round loss to Limerick, and they looked strong when leading by 2-05 to 0-04 lead after 25 minutes.

Antrim bounced back thanks to a Neil McManus goal, after he was set up by the high-fielding Conor Carson.

The Saffrons turned around with the wind at their backs, and McManus and Shane McNaughton, who was sprung from the bench, began to make an impact.

A goal from Liam Kearns cut the deficit to the minimum in the final quarter. Clare lost James McInerney to a second yellow card late on, before Antrim drew level with 10 minutes left on the clock.

However, Nicky O'Connell (0-07) steadied the ship for the visitors with some last-gasp scores and Karl Stewart missed a late chance to level for the hosts from a free.