Clare are through to the Allianz National Hurling League final after a breathtaking 2-21 to 3-08 victory over All-Ireland champions Kilkenny and look to be coming into form ahead of the Munster championship. Kilkenny, looking somewhat out-of-sorts, were without several of their top players in the starting line-up, most notably All-Star forward DJ Carey, but Clare deserved their victory in what was an entertaining match.
Although Kilkenny managed three goals, two of them came courtesy of rare errors by Clare keeper Davy Fitzgerald. Clare, on the other hand, looked lethal in front of the posts, with full-forward Niall Gilligan and centre-forward Jamsie O'Connor hitting brilliant form throughout and the Cats' defence, ususally so tight and resolute, could not cope with the fast-running of Clare's forward line.
Clare led 0-13 to 1-06 at half-time and Kilkenny only remained in contention thanks to Andy Comerford's early long-range goal, which Fitzgerald misjudged. However, the game slipped away when O'Connor fired beyond James McGarry in the 43rd minute to give the Bannermen a nine-point lead. Barry Murphy added a second goal for Clare and Kilkenny were forced to introduce top forwards Charlie Carter, Eddie Brennan and Denis Byrne. Brennan and Jimmy Coogan netted for the Cats late one but with only two points to show for the second 35-minute period, Kilkenny were well beaten.
To check out the scores from today's action in Division 2 and Division 3 of the Allianz National Hurling League click here.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
