A strong first-half performance helped Bennettsbridge retain their senior hurling status when they beat St Patrick’s (Ballyragget) by 1-23 to 1-16 in today’s relegation final.

Kilkenny 2-14 Carlow 2-12: They never actually trailed but Kilkenny still departed Netwatch Cullen Park wiping beads of sweat from their brow last night.

AIB All-Ireland JHC: Bennettsbridge (Kilkenny) 3-19 Fullen Gaels (Lancashire) 1-8: Bennettsbridge from Co Kilkenny defeated Manchester side Fullen Gaels to claim the All-Ireland Club JHC title at Croke Park yesterday.