Ballyhale and O’Loughlins prevail in Kilkenny but not without drama

The narrow margin of both Kilkenny semi-final wins may have come as a bit of a surprise.

TJ Reid of Ballyhale Shamrocks. Pic: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

The Kilkenny SHC final will be contested by Ballyhale Shamrocks and O’Loughlin Gaels for the third time in the last five years, but the narrow margin of both of their semi-final wins may have come as a bit of a surprise.

Shamrocks showed all their old battling qualities as they claimed a two-point win over Dicksboro despite having Paddy Mullen sent off in the opening half. While O’Loughlin Gaels were also pushed to the pin of their collar as they held off a fast finishing Mullinavat to prevail by the minimum.