A whopping 0-12 from freetaker Paddy Henry got Derry off to the perfect start in the Christy Ring Cup but Kildare were left mystified with the referee as the Oak Leaf men scored 14 points from frees, and had 22 frees in total, to Kildare’s nine.

Not even a hat-trick by Kerry’s Padraig Boyle could prevent Westmeath from getting off to a winning start in their Allianz Division 2A campaign at Cusack Park, Mullingar, yesterday.

MOUNT LEINSTER RANGERS became the first team from Carlow to reach the All-Ireland Club IHC final after a titanic struggle with Robert Emmets of London in Parnell Park yesterday.

Four players were dismissed in Derry's win over London, while Armagh and Meath were also victorious in Division 3A of the Allianz Hurling League this afternoon.

South Down and Longford were winners in Division 4 of the Allianz Hurling League, while Tyrone and Fermanagh drew in the other game.

WATERFORD’S Michael Wadding last night expressed delight after his appointment as referee for the All-Ireland SHC final between Kilkenny and Tipperary on September 5.

The GAA has confirmed the referees and match officials for the All-Ireland Senior and Minor Hurling Championship finals at Croke Park on September 5.