Ciara Mageean's spirit driving Portaferry ahead of Dunloy showdown

Portaferry's Daithi Sands ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Daithi Sands says Portaferry will take inspiration from the late Ciara Mageean when they face Dunloy in tomorrow’s Ulster club SHC semi-final (3.30pm).

The death of the former European 1500m champion has left a huge void in the Ards community, with Mageean having developed a close connection with the Portaferry hurlers in recent years.

Sands admitted her passing had been difficult for the town to come to terms with, but believes her incredible attitude will provide motivation for Sunday's clash.

“It's still surreal, still a shock – it doesn't seem real or right,” he told BBC Sport NI.

“Portaferry people won't have to look too far for inspiration. The way she carried herself and the way she was in general, regardless of the result on Sunday, it just puts it all into perspective for us.”

Sands added: “She gave it everything, so we need to do the same.”

Portaferry are chasing a place in the Ulster final as they look to end a run of provincial heartbreak, having reached the final last year.

“The past couple of years have shown we are more than capable at that level, but now it's not about knocking on the door – we need to get over the line in one,” Sands said.