St John's see off Setanta to book place in decider

Conor Johnston shone for St John's as they defeated Setanta at Owenbeg

Conor Johnston scored two goals as Antrim champions St John's secured a resounding 3-20 to 0-12 win over Donegal kingpins Setanta at Owenbeg on Saturday to book their place in the Ulster Club Hurling Championship final.

Setanta scored the first two points but their opponents responded courtesy of Johnston's first goal as he cut in from the right and fired low into the net.

Three further points followed for St John's who, despite goalkeeper Domhnall Nugent missing a penalty, went on to enjoy a five-point lead at the break - 1-10 to 0-8 the score.

After the sides traded two frees apiece on the resumption, Johnston's second goal gave the eventual victors some breathing space.

The Antrim side had built up an 11-point cushion as the match went into its final quarter, with their third goal having a degree of fortune about it as Kevin Campbell saw his drive blocked by Donal Carson and the ball ended up nestling in the back of the net.

Oisin MacManus top-scored for the winners with 0-12, nine from frees, while Gerard Gilmore converted eight frees for Setanta.

Having clinched a first county title since 1973, St John's can now look forward to a provincial decider at the end of the month.

Derry champions and defending Ulster champions Slaughtneil will face Down counterparts Portaferry in the second semi-final at the Athletic Grounds on Sunday (15:30 GMT). The two sides met in last year's final.