*Competing schools pictured at the recent launch in Cusack Park. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill Starting a new U15 post-primary hurling competition represents “a step forward on a lot of fronts” for underage development in the county, former Clare manager Donal Moloney has said.
Tony Kelly has undergone surgery for a recurring ankle injury which will rule him out of action for up to four months.
*Brandon O’Connell. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill Two-time senior champions Ballyea completed the semi-final line-up for the Clare SHC after coming out on top in a hard-fought encounter with rivals Kilmaley.
St. Flannan’s College, Ennis are through to the semi-final of the Dean Ryan Cup, Munster colleges junior A hurling championship.
*Colm Madden and John Conlon compete for possession. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill Clare hurler John Conlon has undergone keyhole surgery while All Star Tony Kelly, his clubmate Jack Browne and defender Patrick O’Connor remain sidelined.
*Rory Hayes clearing his lines. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill Clare has received three nominations for the PwC All Star awards with Aidan McCarthy shortlisted for Young Hurler of the Year.
Ballyea secured top spot in Group 2 of the Clare SFC by grinding out a draw with Cratloe on Sunday afternoon.
*Cooraclare are keeping tight-lipped on the possibility of Sean O’Donoghue returning from the US for their weekend clash with Kilmurry Ibrickane. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill It’s a massive weekend in the race for the various adult football championships as clubs chase advancement to the knock out stage at senior, intermediate and junior levels.
A strong third quarter in which they outscored their opponents 0-9 to 0-2 proved decisive as Ballyea recorded a second win in this season’s senior hurling championship.
The ability of Tony Kelly and Niall Deasy to pick off scores when the need is greatest has been a key ingredient in many of Ballyea’s victories in recent years and it was again a key part of the team’s latest victory when they overcame Broadford in the opening round of the Clare SHC.
