*Ballyea’s Niall Deasy. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill YOU’VE undoubtedly heard of the second coming but Robbie Hogan is hoping to make third time a charm as he returns to the helm of Ballyea once more in 2025.
*Aaron Griffin and Liam Corry in action. Photograph: Ruth Griffin. GIVING game-time to younger players was the primary aim for Ballyea and Éire Óg in this year’s league but both clubs now find themselves sixty minutes away from winning the Division 2 league title.
*Dara Kennedy. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill. CENTRE back Dara Kennedy has provided a new lease of life to Clare’s minor side since returning from injury.
*James Murphy carries the ball out of defence. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill BALLYEA are determined to bounce back following an eight point opening round loss to Clonlara.
*Tony Kelly. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill CLARE’S TONY KELLY says the performance from Sunday’s Munster final is the most difficult aspect to stomach from the defeat.
*The site where the incident occurred. GARDAÍ have confirmed an investigation is ongoing following a suspected arson attack in Tiermaclane.
*Sean Rynne and Inagh/Kilnamona must defeat Kilmaley to keep their championship bid alive. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill CALCULATORS will be at the ready with club officials and patrons at this weekend’s TUS Clare senior hurling championship games as score difference may be required to determine the final positions of teams in Groups 2 and 4.
Photograph: Mark Hayes CLONDEGAD AND the Banner will contest the U21B football championship final following their victories over Lissycasey and Kilmurry-Ibrickane respectively on Sunday afternoon.
*James Murphy goes to ground. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill WRITTEN OFF BY ALMOST EVERYONE ahead of their Munster final showing, Ballyea will be proud with their display against reigning All-Ireland champions, Ballygunner.
*Tony Kelly hits a trademark score off his left side. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill BALLYEA’S HURLING FIELD was not just where one of the country’s finest hurlers Tony Kelly honed his craft but also the spot where his greatest friendships and bonds blossomed.