Ruthless Saffrons inflict big defeat on Royals

On a cold day Meath started to warm up for the new hurling season when they lost out, 1-15 to 3-27, to Antrim in the Kehoe Cup at Pairc Tailteann today. 

Fielding an experimental-looking team new manager Nick Weir wasn't too perturbed by the defeat as he lays the foundation for his term at the helm. 

The Ulster side led all the way building on a 2-16 to 0-5 interval lead to push on and wrap up victory. On the back of some intense training Meath didn't look sharp with Anthony Healy ending up as their top scorer with seven points, six frees, one '65'. 

James Toher hit four points including two huge efforts from distance while Podge O'Hanrahan, Jack Walsh, and Nicky Potterton also fired over. The Meath goal was scored by Jack Regan who fired home a penalty early in the second-half after Healy was fouled - but it didn't stop the flow of yellow traffic. 

Donal Nugent, Michael Bradley and Alex Delargy netted for Antrim with Conor Johnston also making a big contribution with 10 points, five frees. 

See match report and interview with new Meath manager Nick Weir and his philosophy on hurling in next issue of the Meath Chronicle 

Meath emerge to play Antrim today.