Galway SHC: Sarsfields make winning start to title defence

Champions Sarsfields made a winning start to the defence of their Galway SHC title when they beat 2013 All-Ireland winners St Thomas’, 1-18 to 1-15 at Kenny Park in Athenry.

Sarsfields led 0-11 to 0-7 at half-time, and Alan Ward’s second-half goal sealed the win, with Eanna Burke striking a consolation goal for St Thomas’.

Jamie Ryan got the vital goal for Loughrea as they ground out a 1-17 to 0-18 win over Turloughmore.