‘It was going to happen at some point, today’s the day – we will see it out’: Slaughtneil stay strong to send champions Cushendall out of Ulster from

Slaugthneil Stand Firm to End Cushendall’s Reign

Ulster Senior Club Hurling Championship Quarter-Final

Slaugthneil 1-16 Cushendall 0-14

Slaugthneil have ended Cushendall’s dominance of the Ulster Senior Club Hurling Championship, overcoming the reigning champions 1-16 to 0-14 in a thrilling quarter-final clash at Owenbeg.

Christopher O’Doherty’s goal proved decisive for Slaugthneil, who led by 1-10 to 0-8 at half-time. Cushendall fought back in the second half, but the Derry champions held on to secure a memorable victory.

Slaugthneil’s Resurgence

Slaugthneil’s triumph marks a resurgence for the club, who have now reached the Ulster final for the first time since 2019. They had endured a disappointing 2022 campaign, losing to Cushendall in the provincial semi-finals.

However, Slaugthneil have shown great determination and resilience to bounce back this season. They topped their group with three wins and a draw, before overcoming Antrim champions Loughgiel Shamrocks in the preliminary quarter-finals.

Cushendall’s Dynasty Ends

Cushendall’s defeat brings to an end their remarkable run of success in the Ulster Senior Club Hurling Championship. They had won the title for the past three years and had been favourites to retain their crown.

However, Slaugthneil’s victory shows that the gap between the top teams in Ulster is narrowing. The Derry champions played with great heart and determination, and they fully deserved their victory.

What’s Next?

Slaugthneil will now face reigning All-Ireland champions Ballyhale Shamrocks in the Ulster final. The game is scheduled to take place on November 20th at the Athletic Grounds in Armagh.

Ballyhale will be favourites to win, but Slaugthneil will be hoping to cause an upset and claim their first Ulster title since 2016.

Reaction

Slaugthneil manager Michael McShane was understandably delighted with his team’s performance.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game, but the boys showed great character and determination. We played with great heart and we fully deserved the win.”

Cushendall manager John Convery admitted that his team were disappointed with the result, but he praised Slaugthneil for their victory.

“We’re disappointed to lose, but Slaugthneil were the better team on the day. They played with great intensity and they fully deserved the win.”