Westmeath hurlers’ interest in this year’s championship came to an abrupt end in Casement Park last weekend when they suffered a nine point defeat to Antrim. Much of the damage was done in the opening half during which Brian Hanley’s men failed to show any of the flair which was evident against Galway. Dinny Cahill’s enjoyed a 10 point lead at the interval.
To their credit the men in maroon and white were transformed after the break and cut the deficit to just a goal with 20 minutes remaining. Antrim stepped it up again and pulled away in the final quarter to win by nine points.
While it has been a short championship campaign the win over Carlow and performance against Galway have restored some pride in Westmeath hurling after a dismal league campaign. Interim manager Brian Hanley has done a good job after stepping into the breech following the departure of Kevin Martin.
