Davy Fitzgerald could have few more challenging first games as Antrim hurling manager than Dublin at Croke Park.
The three-time All-Ireland winner took up his post as Saffrons Bainisteoir in August last year after Darren Gleeson’s departure.
The Clare native has since started reshaping the Antrim hurling squad into one that he feels can compete at the national level.
Last year, Antrim’s meeting with Dublin at Corrigan Park was won by the Boys in Blue by a single point, with the Saffrons losing all five of their league games in the league and landing themselves into Division 1B in the revamped hurling league.
Dublin just managed to miss out on Division 1A hurling this year after having a worse overall record across last year’s campaign than Wexford.
New Dublin hurling manager Niall Ó Ceallacháin, fresh off the back of winning the All-Ireland senior hurling title with Na Fianna, will be licking his lips as he starts off his time as Dubs manager against a still-adapting Antrim side.
The Boys in Blue have had a productive pre-season, managing two challenge game wins over last year’s beating semi-finalists Limerick and Munster giants Tipperary.
When and where is Antrim v Dublin in the National Hurling League opener?
Davy Fitzgerald’s Antrim will travel to Croke Park to take on Niall Ó Ceallacháin and his Dublin side as both managers begin their stints in the hot seat on Saturday, January 25.
Throw-in is scheduled for 5.15pm.
Where can I watch the Dublin v Antrim hurling match?
The game between Dublin and Antrim will not be broadcast, however, The Irish News will be providing live updates from all of the weekend’s GAA action across club and county.
