O’Donnell overlooked

Clare’s Shane O’Donnell is the surprise omission from the Bord Gáis Energy U21 hurling team of the year.

The All-Ireland champions lead the way with eight representatives, though there is no place for the Éire Óg teenager who pilfered 3-3 in the senior final replay against Cork.

The 19-year old was among the scorers in the county’s semi-final and final victories, but the Banner managed to secure only two forward slots with Tony Kelly and Podge Collins selected in the half-forward line.

Ronan Taaffe has been selected as goalkeeper after a campaign that saw the Tubber clubman concede only two goals throughout the entire championship, with senior full-back David McInerney picked at number three.

Antrim forwards Stephen McAfee and Ciaran Clarke are rewarded for their efforts in the Saffrons’ run to a first All-Ireland U21 final, with Wexford dual star Lee Chin chosen at midfield with Clare’s Tony Kelly.

Bord Gais Energy Team of the Year: Ronan Taaffe (Clare); Paul Flanagan (Clare), David McInerney (Clare), Brian Kennedy (Kilkenny); Seadna Morey (Clare), Alan O’Neill (Clare), Ray Barry (Waterford); Colm Galvin (Clare), Lee Chin (Wexford); Tony Kelly (Clare), Padraic Collins (Clare), Stephan McAfee (Antrim); Stephen Quirke (Offaly), Jason Forde (Tipperary), Ciaran Clarke (Antrim).