Ballyhale surrender Club SHC titles
Sunday, 18 November 2007Leinster and All-Ireland club hurling champions Ballyhale Shamrocks will not retain their titles after the Kilkenny side fell 1-13 to 1-10 to Birr in the provincial semi-final. Shamrocks had led 1-07 to 1-05 at the break.
Birr netted early on Gary Hannify before Ballyhale struck back with a Brendan Costello major in the 18th minute goal. Unanswered points from Barry Whelehan, Keith Hare and Hannify proved the difference at the final whistle.
The Offaly champions will face Ballyboden St Enda's in the decider after the Dubliners overcame Laois side Camross by a point, 2-09 to 0-11. Paul Ryan and David Sweeney got the goals for Ballyboden, while Joe Phelan netted for Camross.
Down south, Tulla and Loughmore-Castleiney will contest the Munster final after they both came through tough tests this afternoon.
Brian Lynch scored a fortunate first goal for Tulla at Cusack Park in Ennis, before veteran Brian Quinn scored the second in the Clare champions' 2-13 to 0-14 victory over Ballyduff Upper. It will be Tulla's first-ever appearance in the provincial finale.
Tipperary star Micheál Webster was the goal hero for Loughmore-Castleiney as they defeated Adare from Limerick by 1-15 to 1-10. Liam Costelloe clawed a goal back for Adare in the second half but it was not enough for the Shannonsiders.
And in Connacht, Galway champions Portumna hammered Ballina James Stephens 6-23 to 0-07.
