Ballygunner easily master Passage and set up clash with DLS

In a fascinating climax to the group stages of the Waterford SHC, three-time winners Lismore and 2012 runners-up Dungarvan were the major casualties as Tallow, Ballygunner and Abbeyside all pressed on to the quarter-finals.

It also sets up a couple of spicy pairings next month including the eagerly awaited meeting of De La Salle and Ballygunner.

In Group 2, the Gunners took care of business last night at Walsh Park with a comfortable 2-17 to 1-9 success over Passage. Brian O’Sullivan’s third-minute blast established early supremacy and despite the best efforts of Killian Fitzgerald and Owen Connors, Ballygunner held a 1-7 to 0-6 half-time cushion. Passage were hindered by the loss of Eoin Kelly to injury at the break and their opponents kicked on. JJ Hutchinson cracked home a second goal to see Andy Moloney’s men home. Sean Hogan tucked away a consolation for Passage.