Armagh advanced to the Ulster Championship semi-finals with an 11-point win over a valiant Antrim side in a thrilling quarter-final clash at Corrigan Park. Despite the comfortable final margin, the Orchard County had to dig deep to shake off an inspired Antrim performance that had the home crowd dreaming of a major upset for much of the game.
Antrim, spurred on by the pre-match controversy surrounding the venue and the electric atmosphere it generated, brought their best display of the season. The Saffrons led 0-14 to 0-13 at the interval and could have been further ahead had Kavan Keenan not seen his first-half penalty brilliantly saved by substitute goalkeeper Blaine Hughes after Armagh’s Ethan Rafferty was shown a black card.
The hosts were full of confidence early on, responding to Armagh’s opening three points with a series of attacking moves led by Patrick McBride, Ryan McQuillan, and Dominic McEnhill. A dramatic first half saw both sides trade scores in rapid succession, with Antrim edging ahead just before the break, prompting a rousing reception from the home supporters.
However, Armagh responded decisively after the interval. The introduction of Oisin O’Neill proved pivotal as he landed three two-point frees and helped swing momentum in favour of the visitors. Ross McQuillan restored Armagh’s lead in the 42nd minute—a lead they would not relinquish.
A crucial moment came when Armagh forced a turnover in defence and launched a swift counterattack, culminating in Tomás McCormack firing into the top corner to extend the gap. That goal, coupled with scores from Aidan Forker, O’Neill, and Rory Grugan, broke Antrim’s resistance.
Although Antrim continued to battle, with McBride and McQuillan adding late scores, they couldn’t stem the tide. A late goal by Ryan McQuillan served as a consolation for the hosts, who had given everything but ultimately came up short.
Armagh’s strong second-half display saw them finish with seven unanswered points, highlighting their depth and composure under pressure. Despite the defeat, Antrim earned plaudits for their energy, intensity, and ambition—elements that made this a far more competitive contest than many had predicted.
Armagh now progress to the Ulster semi-finals, while Antrim will take pride in a performance that suggests they are a team with plenty of promise and potential for the future.
