Powerful Piarsaigh’s blistering pace too much for tired Bridge

Na Piarsaigh (Limerick) 4-14 Sixmilebridge (Clare) 0-8

A Na Piarsaigh goal within seconds of the start of each half signalled the beginning of the end for the outclassed Clare champions. Limerick county star Kevin Downes scored the first, sent clear with a brilliant low centre by county teammate Shane Dowling.

That score helped Na Piarsaigh to a 1-5 to 0-1 lead after 20 minutes and the Limerick champions were still well in control at the break (1-8 to 0-5), Dowling (four), Adrian Breen (two), David Dempsey and Pat Gleeson with the points, free-taker Niall Gilligan (three), Shane Golden and Kevin Lynch in reply at the other end.