Flaherty points way to victory as Banner dethrone poor Cork

CLARE dethroned Munster and All-Ireland IHC champions Cork in the opening round of the provincial championship at Thurles.

It was a dreadful match, riddled with frees and while both sides shot 15 wides, there was no disputing Clare deserved victory.

With so many former senior players on duty, the game was expected to be a lively affair but it was anything but. Both defences were on top so scores were at a premium and after 22 minutes of play the sides had only managed a point each.