Latics just had that extra edge as they deservedly defeated Bradford City 3-1 on Saturday.
Dylan Bahamboula, Carl Piergianni and Davis Keillor-Dunn provided the firepower as Harry Kewell’s team notched a fourth win in five League Two games.
The result also cost Kewell’s opposite number Stuart McCall his job as the Bantams fired their boss following a fifth straight reverse.
“It’s another good, hard-earned victory for us,” said Kewell.
“Bradford had their moments, and credit to them for pushing us all the way, but overall I just thought we had that bit more out there today.
“I was really pleased with the performance, the only disappointing aspect was the late goal we conceded towards the end.
RTÉ Sport reporter
Antrim will play Liam MacCarthy Cup hurling in 2021 after holding firm at Croke Park to repel courageous Kerry and secure the Joe McDonagh Cup title.
In the fourth and by far most significant meeting of the counties this year, The Saffrons maintained their 100 per cent record over Fintan O Connor s side to return to hurling s top flight.
Strong performances in both the first and third quarters were significant from Antrim s perspective as was the scoring power of Ciaran Clarke who sniped 0-11.
Clarke struck 0-08 from frees while the introduction of talisman Neil McManus in the third quarter following injury was crucial too as the Cushendall man contributed 0-04.
They lost out to Antrim in Croke Park by 22 points to 1-17.
Kerry played into the Hill 16 end while the sun shone towards the Canal End and into the eyes of the Antrim goal.
The Kingdom played as selected and off they went into attack straight away but Antrim were the first to threaten to score only for the green and gold to clear the danger in the opening minute.
It was a nervy start from Kerry and after some early mistakes, they eventually conceded a free to Antrim on the 45-metre line and Ciaran Clark opened the scoring after 3 minutes of play.