Shefflin leads the way in vintage Cats win

Kilkenny 3-18 Tipperary 2-16

Kilkenny ruled supreme against their old rivals Tipperary at Nowlan Park today - with Henry Shefflin supplying 1-06 of their tally in a dominant display.

The Cats could now claim their third NHL Division One title in four years next weekend.

Two Shefflin frees and a magical Martin Comerford effort had the home side 0-03 to 0-02 in front in the early stages and although Tipp led twice in the opening quarter, Kilkenny always looked the likely winners.

Tipperary thoughts now turn to their Munster Championship opener against Limerick next month.

Eoin Larkin blizted through for Kilkenny's opening goal on 16 minutes. Five minutes later, Shefflin netted as Brian Cody's men went on to secure a 2-10 to 2-04 half-time buffer.

The Premier's tally of 15 wides did little to boost their hopes in the end, but they clung in thanks to opening half goals from Eoin Kelly and Francis Devanney.

Tipp did cancel out early Kilkenny points from James Ryall and Comerford in the second half with Eoin Kelly pocketing a neat sideline cut.

A long Richie Mullally clearance then midway through the half, paved the way for James Stephens' attacker Larkin to knock home his second goal for a 3-12 to 2-06 lead and effectively end the contest.