Blackrock and Fr O’Neill’s served up a hurling classic at Kilfinane, a Munster club intermediate championship quarter-final that defied the tough conditions for this time of the year and that was fully enjoyed by the huge crowd at the Blackrock venue.

Super-sub Colm O’Keeffe was the hero for Blackrock as his second-half goal ensured his side will play senior hurling for the first time since 1998 after this Limerick Premier IHC final replay win.

Blackrock will play senior hurling for the first time since 1998 after this Premier IHC final replay win.

NEVER were three cheers for a losing team rendered more heartily to the heavens than at chilly Croke Park on Saturday evening as Blackrock captain, Brendan Hennessey called for tribute to be paid to a gallant effort by St Colmcille’s of Tyrone in this All-Ireland club junior hurling final.