Countess of Antrim Cup – North Antrim Intermediate Hurling
Loughgiel Shamrocks 5-27 Carey Faughs 1-11
Loughgiel Shamrocks 2nds delivered a masterclass performance in the Countess of Antrim Hurling semi-final, dominating Carey Faughs from the opening minute to the final whistle.Â
The Shamrocks showcased ruthless efficiency in attack, building a massive early lead that secured their path to a final meeting with Ruairi Og Cushendall.
Loughgiel wasted no time making their mark on the game. Roan McGarry opened the scoring with a point from play just 14 seconds into the match. Finn Henry raised the first green flag with a goal from play at the six minute mark, setting the tone for Loughgiel’s devastating offensive display.Â
The pressure remained relentless, and McGarry followed up with a goal of his own on ten minutes. Carey Faughs struggled to gain a foothold in the game, relying on frees and scattered points from Connor McBride, James Black, and Conall McGlynn to keep the scoreboard ticking.Â
Meanwhile, Loughgiel continued to press their advantage. Further first-half goals by Ryan Hill midway through the half and Conan Johnston on 22 minutes effectively ended the contest before the break. By half-time, Loughgiel held a commanding and unassailable 4-15 to 0-6 advantage.
The second half followed a very similar script as Loughgiel continued to dictate the pace. Ryan Hill found the back of the net for his second goal of the day on 39 minutes, cementing the Shamrocks’ absolute control.Â
Carey Faughs showed resilience and managed to break through for a consolation goal when Ryan McQuaid struck in the 44th minute. In truth the visitors could easily have had a couple more goals had it not been fro a couple of top class saves from the Loughgiel goalkeepr John Francis Connolly.Â
However, Loughgiel’s depth and accuracy shone through as they emptied their bench and continued to pick off points from all angles. The match concluded with a final scoreline of 5-27 to 1-11 in favour of the Shamrocks.
The undisputed star of the show for the Shamrocks was corner forward Roan McGarry. He orchestrated the attack brilliantly, finishing the game with a phenomenal personal tally of 1 goal and 11 points. His masterclass performance was achieved despite being substituted midway through the second half, highlighting his incredible efficiency while on the pitch.
Loughgiel Shamrocks
Carey Faughs
