THE race for the 2010 Intermediate hurling league title got underway at the weekend when there were five games listed for decision.
Inagh-Kilnamona had eight points to spare over Wolfe Tones whom they defeated on a score of 0-15 to 0-7.
The winners were always comfortable in this one and went in at half-time 0-7 to 0-3 ahead. They stepped up a gear in the second half and some excellent points from Jimmy Carmody, Seán Arthur and Brian Hehir left the game beyond Wolfe Tones. Best for Inagh Kilnamona on the day were Brian Arthur, Brian Hehir and Jimmy Carmody.
Meelick opened their season with a comprehensive victory over Corofin. Meelick were cautious going into the game as Corofin were winners of the Junior A Championship last year. The winners were 0-10 to 1-2 ahead at half-time. The introduction of Kenneth Keane worked well as he set up the goal for Adam Sherlock. There were further fine scores from Andy White, Kenneth Keane, Gary Moloney and Alan Markham. There were fine displays from many players, however, man of the match was Eanna Mulvihill who gave an outstanding display from midfield.
Cratloe finished strongly to record a narrow two-point win over Clooney-Quin while Newmarket were easy winners over Kilmaley. Éire Óg conceded a walkover to Parteen.

Junior A league

IN the Junior A League, Ballyea were first into action and they had a comfortable 2-15 to 1-9 win over Clooney-Quin.
The winners were well in control throughout the tie and led at the interval by 1-9 to 0-3 and added on a further 1-6 in the second half. Dermot Gavin led the way with 0-8 to his credit while Ivan Kilbane and Eanna McInerney each contributed 1-3 with Rory Long adding a point.
Other players to impress for Ballyea were Barry Kilbane, Frankie Griffin and Tomas Chambers.
Tulla got their challenge for this title off to a winning start with a 2-16 to 2-11 victory while O’Callaghan’s Mills had a goal to spare over St Joseph’s. Two points was also the margin as Clonlara overcame Whitegate while Crusheen had a runaway 4-20 to 1-8 win over Smith O’Briens.