Down hurling boss Jim McKernan welcomed Gareth 'Magic' Johnson's triumphant return in last Saturday's Christy Ring Cup clash with Derry. The Ballygalget man, who missed all but one of Down's NHL games due to his club football commitments, marked his return to the side by scoring 2-3 from play in a 3-20 to 1-22 victory at Newry. "It is good to see him back. It just shows you how important he is to Down hurling," McKernan said. "Against Kerry, in the final league game, he came in and the team clicked well. Some of his flicks and pulls today were outstanding. "The guy is just awesome and him and big Paul (Braniff) up front are a massive duo. He is still involved in the football and I am prepared to work along with him." Tweet

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