Cloyne always in control

THE drawn match had been an engrossing and tightly-balanced affair but Cloyne’s complete superiority ensured there was to be no repeat in Saturday’s Cork SHC third round replay in Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

The previous encounter may have ebbed and flowed with the teams locked at 1-18 apiece after extra-time in Páirc Uí Rinn four weeks ago but this was a markedly different affair. In a game that was shrouded in mediocrity for long spells, Cloyne lifted themselves from that malaise to deliver an emphatic success. A year ago they staved off relegation at this stage against Blackrock as they claimed a one-point win amidst huge tension.

This was a more clear-cut win. As the full-time whistle loomed, coach Maurice Cahill was able to relax, safe in the knowledge that their spot in the fourth round was assured and their senior hurling status retained.