Defending champions Limerick draw Clare in Munster U21 opener

Defending champions Limerick will have to go the long route if they are to retain the Munster U21 hurling title following last night’s draw at Aras na Mumhan in Castletroy.

The All-Ireland holders were drawn with Clare in the preliminary round of the 2018 competition, with the winners advancing to meet Tipperary in the semi-final.

Cork will clash with Waterford in the other last-four tie, a repeat of the counties’ meeting this year, when Declan Dalton scored a late penalty to gain victory for the Rebels.