Carlow hurlers are gearing up for a pivotal clash this Sunday as they face Antrim in the Leinster Championship, with their provincial status on the line.
The Barrowsiders must win to avoid relegation to the Joe McDonagh Cup, making this match a high-stakes encounter for the team.
Last weekend, Carlow suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Wexford, with the final score reading Carlow 1-13, Wexford 2-36. Wexford’s clinical performance saw them dominate the game, winning by 26 points. Carlow selector Pat Murphy acknowledged the superiority of Keith Rossiter’s men on the day.
“It was a very flat performance from us, but I have to give all the credit to Wexford, who were really sharp on the day. Everything they hit turned to gold, they went through one of those phases where they probably scored 1-09 without anything going wide,” Murphy said. “Our conversion ratio was closer to forty percent, and you won’t survive at that level when you’re hitting that many wides.”
The loss has placed Carlow in a precarious position. A win against Antrim is essential for them to retain their spot in the provincial championship for 2025. A draw would suffice for Antrim to maintain their Liam MacCarthy Cup status, but Carlow needs nothing less than a victory.
Fans and supporters will be eagerly watching as the Barrowsiders strive to secure their place in the Leinster Championship and avoid the drop to the Joe McDonagh Cup. This Sunday’s match promises to be a tense and thrilling encounter, with everything on the line for both teams.
