MCGEENEY FORCED INTO LATE CHANGES

KIERAN McGeeney revealed he was forced into two late changes for Saturday's victory over Antrim after Ciarán Mackin and Paddy Burns were ruled out during the week.

- BY PADDY TIERNEY

The Orchard County were one point in arrears at half-time after an inspired showing from the Saffrons, but the All-Ireland champions showed their class in the second half to win by 11 points.

Mackin, who was set to return to the starting 15 after suffering an ACL injury last season, had a setback in training while defender Burns had an allergic reaction.

"We've had a rough few weeks with injuries and stuff. I think we had only maybe three or four from last year's team," said McGeeney.

"He (Mackin) hurt his knee, it looks like an old injury, but it is a serious old injury so we don't know what the story is with it yet.