Neville’s goal puts the seal on Offaly victory

Galway 1-15

A mere six days ago, Clare had suffered a heavy and demoralising loss to Cork in the Munster senior hurling championship semi-final, then 24 hours later, the worst possible draw in the All-Ireland first-round qualifier series.

As a consequence, the question of most concern to a worried Clare hurling public was basic. Could the team lift itself sufficiently to face what was sure to be a major challenge from Galway? A little rider too on that question, would their dejected fans turn out to offer their support?