Cork take Intermediate hurling title

Cork 2-23 Kilkenny 0-16

Kilkenny's bid for a clean sweep of All-Ireland Hurling Championship titles hit the rocks at the first hurdle at Fraher Field, Dungarvan today as Cork claimed a 10-point victory in the Intermediate final.

Cork's seventh All-Ireland success at this grade was gained in impressive fashion.

The Rebels led this fast-paced encounter by 1-7 to 0-6 after 20 minutes thanks largely to a Luke O'Farrell goal.

Scores were harder to come by in the closing stages of the opening half with Cork holding a 1-8 to 0-9 interval lead.

Youghal clubman Leigh Desmond was in outstanding form with six first half points from placed balls, while Ray Carey and O'Farrell were also on target with points.

Wind-assisted Cork bounded out of the blocks in the second half to build a 1-15 to 0-11 lead with 15 minutes remaining.

Kilkenny battled bravely but a second Cork goal from Eamonn Collins ensured a first title for his county at this grade since 2006.