McLaughlin congratulates Antrim U21 hurling sucess

Cllr McLaughlin said: “I am absolutely delighted to see the honour and pride of our county jersey restored by this team of young Gaels. The county has now taken 4 Ulster titles on the trot at this level, and 28 in total.

“This victory over Derry, I hope marks an era in Antrim hurling that can be followed through to senior level. Given the recent disappointment suffered by our minor and senior hurlers and indeed our senior footballers, I think this result is the boost the county required to give everyone the confidence to bounce back next year knowing that titles can be achieved.

“Each and every player hurled their heart and soul out on the evening and ultimately it was a great team effort which saw them defeating their neighbours, and with 3 of my own club members on the starting 15 and indeed all 3 getting on the score sheet, made it a more special evening for myself and the St Brigids club in Cloughmills.”

Cllr McLaughlin added: “This bunch of lads are now in an all Ireland semi final where they will play the champions of Munster, either Tipperary or Clare, which hasn’t been played yet but our support and good wishes will certainly go with them on the day.

“I would like now to organise a civic reception for the boys in Assembly buildings to mark their achievement with the help of our local MLA’s within Co Antrim”.

His Sinn Fein colleague Daithi McKay MLA commented by saying: “These boys deserve every bit of the limelight they will receive over the coming weeks and months and I wish them the best of luck in progressing further.”