For the second time in just four weeks, Donal Hughes delivered a dramatic, last-gasp goal to secure a thrilling 1-22 to 0-23 victory for Down over Antrim in the opening round of the Joe McDonagh Cup in Dunloy. This injury-time heroics echoed his late goal in their March league clash, though this time it sealed a crucial championship win to launch Down's campaign in style.

Facing a strong wind in the first half, Down's tactical decision to absorb pressure paid off. Led by the immense Caolan Taggart at centre-back, they battled ferociously, turning over possession and staying within touching distance despite Antrim's early chances. While Antrim spread the scoring with seven different players finding the target, including all four Dunloy clubmen on their home ground, their 0-12 to 0-8 halftime lead felt precarious given Down's resilience and work rate.

The second half unfolded as a tense, point-for-point shootout, with the teams trading scores on nine separate occasions. Tom McGrattan and Daithi Sands provided vital scores from play for Down, while Pearse Og McCrickard's reliable free-taking kept the scoreboard ticking. Just as Antrim seemed poised to close out the game, Down found another gear. A crucial point from Marc Fisher broke the pattern, sparking a late surge that saw Owen McDermott and two more McCrickard frees level the contest.

With the game deep into added time and Antrim nudging back ahead, the stage was set for a familiar hero. Donal Hughes, the man who broke Antrim hearts in Newry, stepped up once more, finding the net in the dying moments to snatch a famous victory. This time, Down's defence held firm in the final minutes, securing a win that not only avenges their recent relegation heartbreak but also sends a powerful statement at the start of their Joe McDonagh Cup journey.