Ruairi Og have a strong recent history in The Antrim Minor Hurling Championship with five championship victories in the last twenty years with the most recent win coming in 2010. Even in the years when the club has failed to win the Minor Championship, Cushendall have always been competitive, providing stiff opposition for whoever they face. This year hopes are again high that Ruairi Og can regain the Minor crown. The Darragh Cup has already been secured for a record fifth year in a row and the team is also well placed in the Antrim League with only one defeat all year.
The young Ruairis play an attractive brand of hurling with marquee forward Alex Delargy pulling the strings alongside Conrad Mc Donnell and ace finisher Christy Mc Naughton. The team is captained by the swashbuckling Cormac Mc Allister who is usually good for a few scores from his midfield birth where he is often joined by another talented hurler Ryan Mc Cambridge, a young man who has made a place on the Ruairi Og senior team his own. At the back Paddy Burke provides a calming influence and he is well supported by the ever improving Stephen Walsh and the enthusiastic Eoin Mc Manus. In goals is Colin Hayden who has attracted rave reviews for his performances for the Antrim minor hurlers this year.
However the team will be aware that they face a tough task if they are to beat Belfast side Rossa and reach the Championship showpiece. Rossa also have a strong team and they have been buoyed by winning the 2012 U-16 County Championship, beating Ruairi Og in the final. An intriguing game in prospect but I fancy Cushendall to come through with a point or two to spare.
MHC
All support very welcome.
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23 Aug 2013 |
Ruairi Og |
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Rossa |
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Semi Final 6.45pm Ahoghill |
All support very welcome.
by Colum Thompson