Conor McKinley is hoping Antrim can put a disappointing Allianz Hurling League campaign behind them by becoming the inaugural winners of the Joe McDonagh Cup.

The Saffrons were relegated from Division 1B, but will have an opportunity to make amends in the new Joe McDonagh Cup which also includes Laois, Westmeath, Meath, Kerry and Carlow.

"We have to put the league behind us and get down to business in the Joe McDonagh Cup. This provides us with a pathway to redemption and it's important that we make the most of our chance," the Antrim captain told the Belfast Telegraph.

"These are all sides which are just outside the top bracket and they will be very keen to make an impact just like ourselves. We would like to show what we are really capable of in the championship.

"Obviously the higher level you are playing at in the championship the more media exposure you are going to receive and it's important that Antrim are shown in a good light.

"The league is done and dusted and now we must focus on the future. There is a good mix of youth and experience within our side," added McKinley, whose father Dominic is Antrim's joint-manager.

Tweet

Most Read Stories