Carlow so close as Kilkenny escape to victory

Kilkenny 2-14 Carlow 2-12: They never actually trailed but Kilkenny still departed Netwatch Cullen Park wiping beads of sweat from their brow last night.

A strong start ultimately proved more than half the battle as early goals from Ciaran Ryan and Liam Hickey afforded Kilkenny a cushion that they were very grateful for late on.

But Brian Ryan’s Cats will move forward to the July 8 Bord Gais Energy Leinster U21HC final with big questions to answer.