Clare and Waterford to face off in Allianz National Hurling League Final

Clare and Waterford were both victorious in today’s doubleheader at Semple Stadium as they saw past Kilkenny and Limerick respectively to set up a fantastic final.

Waterford 3-23 Limerick 1-18

Waterford were in flying form today as they defeated Limerick by 11 points in Semple Stadium today.Limerick led by 0-12 to 0-11 at half-time but a second half turn around from Waterford showed the caliber of the Déise Patrick Curran and Shane Bennett were outstanding for Waterford, Curran scored 1-10, but he was sent off late on for a second bookable offence.Bennett cracked home 1-3, including a 43rd-minute penalty goal as Waterford opened up with a run of 1-5 without reply to put daylight between the sides.Limerick’s top scorer Ronan Lynch hit all seven of his points from placed balls and Shane Dowling scored 1-1  from frees, despite coming on late in the second half.

Clare 4-22 Kilkenny 2-19

Clare produced a masterclass today defeating All Ireland Champions Kilkenny by 9 points.Aaron Cunningham produced a man-of-the-match performance scoring 2-03 in the first half alone.The Banner led by 3-12 to 0-10 at the break.Kilkenny rallied in the second half but Clare were always comfortable in the lead. An incredible display from Clare sets up a cracking league decider against Waterford on 1 May.This heavy defeat will raise questions about Brian Cody’s side who looked suspect in defence today.The Black Cats just simply could’t find top gear today but will no doubt look to bounce back in the Championship.