CLARE dethroned Munster and All-Ireland IHC champions Cork in the opening round of the provincial championship at Thurles.

ARMAGH have two newcomers in their side for the Ulster SFC first round clash with NFL champions Donegal at Ballybofey.

WOLFE TONES, who won the Munster club hurling title at the first time of asking back in 1996, ended Bruree’s adventure in a dull first round clash at Cusack Park, Ennis, yesterday to set up what should be a more exciting assignment against Erin’s Own in Cork in two weeks time.

EVER since Anthony Daly ascended to the throne in Clare, observers have been waiting for the Banner to break from the blocks.