By Cóilín Duffy
Antrim qualified for the semi-finals of the All-Ireland Gala Junior Camogie Championship thanks to a convincing six point victory over a resiliant Down side at Casement Park, Belfast.
Jane Adams was on fire for the home side with nine points, but it was Kelly Maybin who was the two goal heroine in the second half which ultimately ensured a 3-13 to 2-10 Antrim victory.
The homeside held a slender 1-06 to 1-05 advantage at the interval with Danielle Clarke scoring their opening half goal, while the visitors pressed hard thanks to fine scores from Fionnuala Carr, Ciara McGovern and Catherine McGourty, with Kathleen Mulholland scoring their goal.
However, Antrim pulled away on the restart with Adams and Maybin in fine form and although Down continued to remain in contention, a late goal from Sarah Louise Carr served as a mere consolation.
Antrim now face Clare in the semi-final on 29 July, while Derry face Waterford on Sunday to see who will gain top spot in Group 2.
Elsewhere in the Gala Junior B Championship, Roscommon registered a comfortable 2-15 to 0-03 win over London in Ruislip.
The visitors held a 1-10 to 0-01 interval lead and continued to remain strong in the second half with Niamh Coyle and Clodagh Rogers the goal scorers.
