Antrim manager Mark Doran was left with no illusions after Saturday's Ulster Championship quarter-final, acknowledging the clear "levels" between his side and a dominant Derry team. The Oak Leafers showcased their class with a commanding 13-point victory, advancing to the provincial semi-finals and underlining the gap that exists between Division One and Division Three outfits.

While rank outsiders at Celtic Park, Antrim showed commendable fight for stretches of the contest. Their game plan, particularly on their own kick-outs and defensive press, caused problems early. However, the clinical nature of the Derry attack, which capitalized ruthlessly on turnovers, proved the decisive factor. A critical under-hit pass that led to a Lachlan Murray goal epitomized the fine margins at this elite level.

"We felt everything we were working on was coming off in the first half," Doran reflected post-match. "The disappointing thing is they scored 1-11 and 1-5 of that came from our turnovers. Coming here, we knew we needed to be perfect, and giving away those scores was the biggest disappointment."

The defeat extends Antrim's wait for an Ulster Championship win to 13 years, but their season is far from over. Attention now turns to the Tailteann Cup, where they have been semi-finalists in the last two years. Returning to Croke Park in that competition is a tangible goal, though Doran knows the path is never straightforward.

"How do we close the gap? We put our heads down and make sure we have a good end to the season," he stated. "These boys live in the real world, but there is belief from our previous runs. They'll hurt for a few days, then come back and go after the Tailteann Cup with everything they have."