LILIES WILT IN SUMMER HEAT

ANTRIM staved off a drop to hurling’s third tier winning the promotion/ relegation play-off against exhausted Kildare.

The Lilywhites were forced to play seven days after winning the Christy Ring Cup and wilted badly in the sweltering heat at the Athletic Grounds. Neil Mcmanus notched 2-10, with Conor Mccann (inset) also scoring a firsthalf goal as Antrim led 3-9 to 1-9 at the break. Paul Divilly had hit the opening goal for Kildare in the third minute but they had nothing left to give in the second half with Antrim strolling to an easy win.