A mighty blow struck for Banner

GIVEN its impoverished recent history, yesterday in the Gaelic Grounds was a momentous afternoon for Clare football.

Despite the favouritism tag being attached to Portlaoise, Kilmurry-Ibrickane conjured up a powerful performance in this All-Ireland Club SFC semi-final.

In the process they ensured that there will be a Banner county representative in the St Patrick’s Day club football showpiece next month for the first time ever.