Christy Ring Cup Semi-finals/Antrim 2-21 Kildare 0-6: Antrim will make a welcome return to Croke Park for the decider after cruising to an emphatic victory at Mullingar. Playing with substance and style, they led 2-14 to 0-1 at half-time.
The prolific Liam Watson contributed nine opening period points, while Paddy Richmond and Brian McFall rattled home goals as Joe McKernan's charges afforded Kildare a hurling lesson.
After the break Kildare improved considerably with Billy White precise from placed balls,
Scorers: Antrim: L Watson (0-12, seven frees, four '65s), P Richmond (1-2), B McFall (1-1), M Scullion, K Kelly (0-2 each), C Cunning, J McIntosh (0-1 each) Kildare: B White (0-3, two frees, '65), PB Byrne, D Harney, O Lynch (0-1 each).
* Kerry defeated Roscommon 2-19 to 1-7 in the relegation play-off game at Cusack Park on Saturday. Two goals from Michael Conway at the start of the second half decided the contest.
Not even the enduring excellence of Paul Braniff, who scored 4-6 in a virtuoso display, could steer Down into the Christy Ring Cup final as Carlow grabbed a victory as unexpected as it was merited.
In a thrilling second period that was laced with drama Braniff filched four sublime goals, but Carlow still prevailed.
It was underdogs Carlow who bossed the first half. They poured forward in search of scores and accumulated a healthy 0-12 to 0-4 half-time lead.
The game's complexion altered in the third quarter as Braniff struck a hat-trick of goals, while corner forward Eoin Clarke also netted as Down somehow claimed a 4-6 to 0-15 lead by the 54th minute.
Yet, Carlow summoned a sensational response and in a blistering finale the bustling Des Murphy crashed home a brace of goals. A trip to Croke Park now beckons for the gritty hurlers of Carlow.
Scorers: Carlow: P Coady (0-6, three frees, '65), D Murphy (2-0), B Lawler (0-5), R Foley (0-3), F Foley, C Hughes, A Brennan, P Kehoe, K English (0-1 each) Down: P Braniff (4-6, three frees), E Clarke (1-1), S Wilson (0-1, free)
