Listen, Derry might’ve lost by 11 but Ben McKinless’ goals remain intact.
If it wasn’t a fright that the Oak Leafers offered their greatest rivals on Sunday, it was at least an exaggerated roar in their faces even if the Red Hands didn’t flinch.
Derry pulled the deficit back to three at one stage in the second period and, when Aidan McCrory was denied not once but twice of what looked like a clear goal-scoring opportunity, something was stirring in Derry – at least it looked that way for another 60 seconds or so.
The double stop from McKinless and then Niall Keenan was something special though.
WATCH!
What about this for a piece of goalkeeping and defending from @Doiregaa duo Ben McKinless & Niall Keenan?! #Ulster2017 pic.twitter.com/nYrexF1BEj— eir Sport (@eirSport) May 28, 2017
If you think that was good, McKinless’ celebration was even better. It was so passionate, in fact, that you’d be forgiven for thinking he won a free in hurling.
The ‘keeper goes looking for McCrory.
With a big smile, he prepares his shoulders.
He hits McCrory.
Then he cheers again.
Then, for some reason, he starts getting stuck into Sludden.
And again.
Then he lets another roar out of him.
One man who was well up for it anyway.
Best reaction ever to a save@shanetcurran wouldn't have a look in pic.twitter.com/ZFVJvtAv5V
— Conán Doherty (@ConanDoherty) May 28, 2017
