Kilkenny SHC: Champions Clara overcome Ballyhale Shamrocks

Clara made a winning start to the defence of their Kilkenny senior hurling league and championship crowns when they overcame the tough test of Ballyhale Shamrocks.

Inspired by Chris Bolger, who helped himself to 11 points, the men in maroon saw off the Shamrocks 0-19 to 0-15.

Bennettsbridge marked their return to the senior scene with a hard-fought draw against James Stephens. Boosted by the return of Eoin Larkin — he had been on peace-keeping duty in Syria — the Village were in fine form, plundering two first-half goals through Matthew Ruth and David Walton as led at the break 2-8 to 0-7.