Magpies turn tables on champions

The opening shots in the 2013 Minor Hurling Championship (A, B and C divisions) were fired at the weekend and there was some fine play.

In a repeat of last year’s final, Clarecastle turned the tables on the title holders Kilmaley and emerged with a two point win, 1-15 to 2-10 in a game played at Kilmaley. Corofin-Ruan made a winning start when they accounted for Inagh-Kilnamona, also by two points, 3-10 to 1-14.

In the other minor A games this week, the winning margin was three points, with Éire Óg beating Sixmilebridge and Feakle-Killanena overcoming Clonlara.

Doora-Barefield 5-17   Smith O’Brien’s 0-10

Doora-Barefield got their challenge for minor B hurling honours off to a winning start when they accounted for Smith O’Brien’s on a 5-18 to 0-10 scoreline.

Doora Barefield dominated throughout with midfielder David Conroy feeding ball into the half forward and full forward lines with Barry Guilfoyle, Ross McCarthy an Brian Guilfoyle getting the scores. Eoin Hanrahan at centre-back commanded the back-line with the help of Kevin Meaney and Darragh O’Sullivan. Impressive for Smith O’Brien’s were Mike O’Shea, Caimin Quigley, Shane Moloney and Mark Monaghan.

Crusheen-Tubber were 4-9 to 1-12 winners over Broadford, while Cratloe had a 1-13 to 0-3 win over Tulla-Bodyke. In the remaining game, Ballyea were 1-16 to 0-14 winners over Newmarket.

Wolfe Tones 3-20   Ennistymon 2-5

In the opening round of the Minor C championship on Friday last in wet and overcast conditions in Shannon, Wolfe Tones recorded a comprehensive victory over Ennistymon.

A succession of fine points from frees and play left the winners in control at half time 0-15 to 1-1, having played with the the breeze. Ennistymon needed an early score but it was Wolfe Tones, who started best with a goal by Brian O’Connor after good work by Dara Leahy.

Ennistymon struck back with a goal to keep them in contention but two further goals from Dara Leahy and Greg Delahunty closed out the game.

Wolfe Tones’ best were Blaine O’Sullivan, Dean Rudd, Rory Hayes and Greg Delahunty.

Elsewhere in this division, Whitegate accounted for Meelick, 3-25 to 2-4, and Bodyke were 3-10 to 0-6 winners over Banner.