THERE is growing concern in Clare that outstanding full-back Brian Lohan could miss the opening round of the Munster championship against Waterford on May 16.

IT was tougher, tighter and didn't have the pretty hurling of the drawn game, but at Semple Stadium on Saturday, Newtownshandrum finally ended the dogged challenge of O'Loughlin Gaels of Kilkenny in the All-Ireland club hurling championship semi-final.

BOTH Newtownshandrum and O’Loughlin Gaels have injury worries ahead of next Sunday’s AIB All-Ireland club hurling semi-final in Semple Stadium.

NEWTOWNSHANDRUM can thank their magnificent defence and the exquisite long-range shooting of midfielder Jerry O’Connor for qualifying for the Munster Club SHC final at the second time of asking.

Newtownshandrum 0-15 Toomevara 1-9

Newtownshandrum 0-17 Blackrock 1-9